Gynecomastia

Reasons to Have a Gynecomasity

There are dozens of reasons that can lead to male breast growth, gynecomastia, such as hormonal imbalances, liver or thyroid illnesses, cirrhosis, some medication, drug use and some types of cancer. Cases are mainly seen during puberty (13-15 years of age) and the vast majority of these (70-90%) correct themselves within 1-2 years with the breasts returning to their normal size. Reasons to have a gynecomasty can be listed as:

• Swelling, tightness and pain.
• Physical and psychological discomfort caused by the look of enlarged breasts.
• Risk of breast cancer.

Age Range

This operation can be carried out on men once puberty has finished at around 17 years of age. It is not recommended for patients any younger before this physiological stage has finished. Before deciding to operate on a youth still in puberty, it is best to wait another 2 years. However, the risk of breast cancer developing in mature men should be remembered and prudency is advised.

Surgical Methods

Before the procedure, the doctor will examine the to determine exactly what type of gynecomastia the patient has; if it is caused solely by excess fat tissue or not and if there is excess breast tissue, too. In cases caused by breast gland growth, these are removed. In cases caused by excessive fat, liposuction is used to remove the excess fat. In cases where the breasts are excessively large, it may be necessary to remove excess skin and tighten it.

Type of Anaesthesia and Length of Procedure

Gynecomasties can be performed under either local or general anaesthetic, depending on the decision your doctor makes based on your age and size of your breasts. The operation lasts 1-1.5 hours, on average. After the procedure, you will be discharged on the evening of the operation or the next day.

Recovery Period

Patients can return to their normal daily lives the day following the operation and can shower/bathe after 2-3 days.

Things to Pay Attention to Post-Surgery

• Regularly wear the corset recommended by your doctor for 3-4 weeks.
• Don’t wear tight-fitting clothing for the first few months.
• Regrowth is impossible as all breast tissue is removed during the breast reduction procedure.