Gynecomastia, aka the swelling of a male’s breast tissue, is most commonly caused by estrogen levels that are too high. Although this is a sensitive topic for most men, it is something that may need to be addressed.
In most cases, gynecomastia regresses on its own (without treatment), typically after two years. However, there may be an underlying condition, such as hypogonadism, that could require surgery. If you start noticing unusual swelling of the breast, it’s best to see a physician right away to be safe.
Once you have addressed the swelling with your physician and determine that you are not at risk from an underlying issue, then there are other solutions you can choose. While it may be uncomfortable to discuss, there is almost certainly a breast reduction surgery fit for you.
Why Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Gynecomastia is not uncommon, and it can sometimes be solved by merely losing weight. If you lose weight and are still suffering from swelling, then breast reduction is another useful alternative. Offering long-lasting and usually permanent results, a breast reduction can help you feel comfortable going shirtless at the beach and posting pictures on social media without worrying about comments or glares at your chest. Plus, recovery time is quicker than ever, thanks to recent technological advances, and most can go back to work after just one week.
Liposuction and Excision
With technology ever-evolving, the treatment of gynecomastia has evolved into a less invasive approach with minimal (if any) scarring. For gynecomastia cases that are the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction alone might be all that’s needed. This procedure is done with the insertion of a cannula through small incisions. Moving the cannula back and forth in controlled motions, the surgeon will loosen and suction excess fat from the body.
Patients with excess skin, however, may require a slightly more invasive approach. In these instances, lipo alone may not be enough, and your doctor may recommend removing excess tissue or skin and tightening the area. This type of treatment can provide a more natural male contour, making it quite a popular cosmetic procedure.
Recovery from Gynecomastia Surgery
This surgery could take up to 3 hours, depending on the seriousness of the gynecomastia. The recovery time is 1-2 weeks, on average, and patients must avoid any strenuous activity to prevent complications. Bandages or even a support garment will be used to help minimize swelling; there is a chance that a thin tube will be placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions during this time as it pertains to medication, dressings, stitches, and follow-up care.
A common complication experienced is the inadequate resection of glandular tissue after liposuction alone, meaning not enough correction was provided. In these cases, the direct excision of excess skin and tissue can give patients the results they desire. Keep this in mind during follow-up appointments with your doctor to asses the possibility of any revision.
After Recovery from Male Breast Reduction
The results after gynecomastia surgery are immediate both in the shape and appearance of your chest. These changes should last your whole life, but this will not happen if you don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight gain could result in a recurrence of gynecomastia.
Don’t take the results for granted, but be sure to enjoy your new appearance with confidence.