Gynecomastia surgery is a surgical procedure which reduces breast tissue in men. It is a common procedure to reduce the amount of breast tissue that has grown typically under the nipple area, which may make a man feel self-conscious about his appearance. If you are considering Gynecomastia surgery you may have several questions such as how long does a Gynecomastia surgery take? What causes Gynecomastia? And, what does Gynecomastia surgery involve?
What Causes Gynecomastia?
There are several causes of Gynecomastia including changes in hormonal levels, increased estrogen, excessive body fat, and genetics. It is a common complaint for adult men and is treatable with a relatively uncomplicated surgery. Signs of Gynecomastia may appear in the teens, especially when it is a genetical or hormonal imbalance, or in the fifties if related to excess body fat. For teens the condition may resolve itself as the teen grows so it is advised not to have surgery at this time but allow at least three years to see if the condition will resolve itself without having to have surgery.
For older men enlarged breasts are usually due to excess fat, and losing weight will help this condition, as the enlarged breast area is fat rather than breast tissue.
There are some medications and drugs which are known to cause Gynecomastia. It is a common side effect of continued steroid use, due to increased levels of estrogen produced. Medications which create hormonal imbalances are likely to aggravate Gynecomastia including but not limited to Avadart, Propecia, anti-depressants, valium, and pro-hormones taken to increase muscle mass. Drugs such as marijuana, heroin and amphetamines are a recognized cause, as is excessive alcohol consumption. Some food stuffs which increase estrogen levels can also increase the risk of Gynecomastia such as Soy, especially when Soymilk is used to replace lactose milk.
What Does Gynecomastia Surgery Involve?
Male breast reduction surgery, Gynecomastia procedure, is typically a straightforward procedure carried out by a Gynecomastia Specialist. A small incision is made usually around the areola (nipple) or under the armpit, so that it doesn’t show once it is healed. An ultrasound device called a Vaser is used to loosen the tissue, which is then removed using liposuction. Excision may be used on the denser tissue directly below the nipple. Dissolvable stitches are used. When the fat and breast tissue is removed the skin will typically retract, but if it lacks elasticity then it may also be surgically removed.
How Long Does a Gynecomastia Surgery Take?
A Gynecomastia procedure can take between one and four hours depending on where excess skin has to be removed and the extent of the compacted tissue that may need to be surgically excised as opposed to removed through liposuction. It is usually done as an outpatient procedure under Anesthetic and the patient will return home the same day.
Recovery time is usually one week to two weeks and the patient should expect bruising, swelling, and some pain during this period as the area heals.
