Treatment of Gynecomastia

Who is a good candidate for Treatment of Gynecomastia?

Male patients who suffer from gynecomastia for at least 1 year and who desire improvement of the shape and appearance of the breasts and chest area.

What are Treatment of Gynecomastia contraindications?

We recommend avoiding the procedure in severe or uncontrolled systemic diseases, connective tissue disease, malignancy, unrealistic expectations, local skin pathology and pregnancy

Note: A contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient.

How is this procedure performed?

The procedure is commonly done under tumescence anesthesia with monitored sedation. Tumescence anesthesia consists of diluted Lidocaine with epinephrine in a crystalloid solution that is infiltrated into the operative area in calculated amounts based on patient’s body weight. This is then commonly followed by liposuction of the chest area to remove the fatty tissue through small incisions. The breast bud is then removed via an incision around the inferior border of the areola. A drain maybe placed. The incisions are then closed in layers.

How long does the effect last?

Treatment of gynecomastia provides durable long term results, however, significant weight gain, some medications, marijuana use and other factors might affect the results of the procedure.

What should I expect during recovery?

Since the area is numb after the procedure, we routinely do not use narcotics for pain control and pain is easily controlled on acetaminophen (Tylenol). Also, since general anesthesia and narcotics are usually avoided, nausea and vomiting are very rare after the procedure. If drains are used, they are usually removed within 1-2 weeks. A compression garment is usually worn postoperatively for 2-4 weeks or longer. Patients are usually discharged to the care of a responsible adult and recover at home. Light activity and early ambulation are encouraged after the surgery but we recommend avoid upper body exercise and arm lifting above the head. Activities are advanced gradually based on your healing.

Where is the scar?

There is a small scar hidden at the inferior border of the areola. Another very small scar might be placed under the breast for liposuction or drain incision.