WHAT it is:
Gynecomastia, is a surgical procedure performed to reduce breast size in men. It helps define a masculine chest by flattening and enhancing the chest contours.
Male gynecomastia is characterized by the enlargement of breast tissue in males. This condition can manifest with various symptoms and signs, including:
- Breast Enlargement: The most noticeable symptom is the development of enlarged breasts. This can affect one or both breasts and may be mild to severe.
- Breast Pain or Tenderness: Some individuals with gynecomastia may experience breast pain or tenderness. This is more common during the initial stages of breast enlargement.
- Nipple Changes: Gynecomastia can lead to changes in the nipples, such as nipple sensitivity, enlargement, or nipple discharge. Nipple discharge is less common but should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- Psychological Symptoms: In addition to physical symptoms, gynecomastia can cause psychological distress. Many men feel self-conscious, embarrassed, or anxious about their appearance, which can impact their self-esteem and quality of life.
HOW it’s done:
A Gynecomastia procedure is done in the OR under general anesthesia. It procedure can be performed through liposuction, excision or both in conjunction with each other. If the gynecomastia is the primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, Dr. Politis uses liposuction. Excision is used when glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed, if the areola needs to be reduced, or if the nipple needs repositioning.
WHAT to expect:
You may experience temporary pain, soreness, and numbness in the area(s) that have been treated
Maximum discomfort will occur the first few days but may last several weeks.
You will be swollen from the fluid used during the procedure. Maximum swelling usually occurs around 48 hours after surgery and mostly disappears within two to three weeks, but there may be slight residual swelling for up to four months.
Bruising is normal and should disappear within seven to ten days.
You may feel tired for several weeks or months.
Treatment Options for Male Gynecomastia:
The treatment of male gynecomastia depends on its underlying cause, severity, and the patient’s preferences. Here are the main treatment options:
- Observation: In cases of mild gynecomastia with no known underlying cause, a “watch and wait” approach may be recommended. Sometimes, gynecomastia can resolve on its own, especially during adolescence.
- Medication: In certain cases, gynecomastia may be linked to imbalances in hormone levels. If hormonal imbalances are identified, hormone therapy or medications like selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) may be prescribed to help reduce breast tissue.
- Lifestyle Modifications: For some individuals, making lifestyle changes such as weight loss, reducing alcohol consumption, or discontinuing the use of medications known to cause gynecomastia can help manage the condition.
- Surgical Intervention: Surgical procedures are often considered for moderate to severe gynecomastia or when conservative treatments are ineffective. Surgical options include:
- Liposuction: This involves removing excess fat from the breast area to reduce breast size.
- Glandular Excision: When excess glandular tissue is the primary issue, surgical excision may be necessary to remove the breast tissue.
- Combination Procedures: In some cases, both liposuction and glandular excision are performed in a single surgery to achieve the best results.
- Psychological Support: Given the psychological impact of gynecomastia, psychological counseling and support can be essential for individuals to cope with body image issues and boost their self-confidence.
AWAKE or ASLEEP
Take a nap with general anesthesia
RECOVER, RESULTS & FREQUENCY:
Recovery from a Gynecomastia procedure can take 4-6 weeks The results from can be permanent if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
PRE-OP instructions:
Have all prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. Do not take any Aspirin, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10 or medications containing these compounds for 14 days before your procedure.
Begin your stool softener on the day prior to surgery to avoid constipation.
Wash with Hibiclens or antibacterial soap the night before surgery, as directed. Cleanse your belly button area with a Qtip and the antibacterial soap while showering.
Do not shave the surgical site within 2 days of surgery. This includes under arms for breast procedures and the pubic area for abdominal procedures. Hair may be trimmed with an electric clipper.
Avoid using body lotions, deodorants or perfumes on the day of surgery.
Do not wear any jewelry, piercings or contact lenses.
Refrain from vigorous exercise on the day before your surgery.
Have a regular meal on the evening before surgery, and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages on the evening before surgery. Do no eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
POST-OP instructions:
You may shower 24-48 hours after your operation, but no soaking in a bathtub. Lukewarm water.
Elevate the body part that was treated if possible.
The incisions where your physician inserted the cannula may be leaky or drain fluids for several days.
Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
If you have drains, follow the drain care instructions given to you by your physician
May pad incision(s) with dressings for comfort.
Avoid exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months.
Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or greater).
Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.
Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
No strenuous exercise for four to six weeks as it may trigger unnecessary fluid retention in the treated areas.
