What Is Gynocomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition where men have over-developed or enlarged breasts. This condition can affect men of any age and can be hereditary or can be caused by a change in hormones. Gynecomastia can also be a side effect of disease or the use of prescripton or non prescription drugs. This condition is characterized by excessive localized fat and or excess tissue development in the breast tissue glands. This condition most commonly affects both breasts, but in some cases may only occur in one.

What is a Male Breast Reduction?

To correct the effects of gynocomastia a male breast reduction, also known as a reduction mammoplasty, can be performed. This cosmetic procedure is used to remove the excess fatty breast tissue leaving the chest flat, enhancing the male chest contours.

In mild cases of gynecomastia, liposuction is used to remove fatty issue in the breasts. A small incisions are made at the bottom of the breast and a thin hollow tube called a cannula is used to suction out the excess fat.

In more developed cases of gynecomastia, an excision technique is used to remove the excess glandualr tissue and excess skin. Incisions are made around the aerola and in an oval shape around the portion of the breast to be removed. Excess tissue and skin is them removed and the outer incisions are closed. Your surgeon will then reshape and properly position the aerola for a more aesthically appealing look. In some cases, both liposuction and excision techniques will be used.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

Healthy men who suffer from gynecomastia are prime candidates for this procedure. If you have tried alternative treatents for this condition and have not had successful results, a male breast reduction may be the best solution for you. Best candidates are of normal weight, do not suffer from any significant medical conditions and are non smokers.

Risks

As with any surgery, there is always the risk of complication. Heavy smokers, patients who are overweight and patients with diabetes and/or other health problems are more susceptible to complications. Risks inherent to the use of general anesthesia include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, fatigue, headache, and muscle soreness. In very rare cases, the use of general anesthesia may cause blood pressure problems, allergic reaction, heart attack, or stroke.

Risks associated with male breast reduction include assymetry, changes in nipple or breast sensation (can be temporary or permanent), changes in pigmentation, infection, blood clots, hematoma or collection of fluid. If a liposcution technique is used additional risks such as rippling or uneven contours of the skin may occur.