Gynecomastia: Treatment Options

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition in men characterized by the unusual and excessive development of the mammary gland, often associated with adipose tissue, resulting in a feminine-like breast appearance. Gynecomastia can be caused by an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue (pseudogynecomastia), abnormal growth of the mammary gland also present in men (true gynecomastia), or a combination of both (mixed gynecomastia).

 

Psychological Consequences of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia not only directly affects physical and aesthetic appearance but also carries significant psychological weight, leading to questioning one's own masculinity. Furthermore, gynecomastia can be a source of:

  • Insecurity;
  • Low self-esteem;
  • Limitations in social life;
  • Concern and discomfort about one's appearance;

Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery reduces the size of the "male breast" and restores a masculine chest appearance. The benefits are numerous:

  • Improved physique;
  • Restored self-confidence;
  • Restored full social life;

Causes of Gynecomastia

Several factors can lead to gynecomastia in men. The main causes include:

  • Genetic causes;
  • Overweight;
  • Obesity;
  • Sudden and significant weight loss;
  • Loss of skin tone and elasticity due to age and aging;
  • Accumulation of resistant fats;
  • In some cases, it is associated with hormonal dysfunction;

Gynecomastia: When is Surgical Intervention Necessary?

When to Undergo Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery can be performed at any age, although it's preferable to wait until after puberty. Puberty is a period when even in men, a physiological and natural increase in breast gland size and consistency is observed. Furthermore, in cases of significant overweight, it is advisable to postpone gynecomastia surgery and only proceed after eliminating excess weight through a proper diet and physical activity.

 

Indications for Gynecomastia Surgery

The goal of gynecomastia surgery is to reshape the male chest and breast, removing excessive mammary gland development or fatty tissue accumulation.

Gynecomastia surgery is recommended in cases of:

  • Abnormal development of the mammary gland in men;
  • Fat accumulation on the chest;

Surgical intervention should only be considered after necessary examinations to rule out underlying pathologies. In rare cases, gynecomastia can be a symptom of a systemic disease.

 

Before Gynecomastia Surgery

Preoperative Instructions

 

Before gynecomastia surgery, the doctor must:

  • Know your health status (allergies, cardiovascular diseases, hormonal disorders, etc.);
  • Know what medications you take regularly (aspirin and medications containing the same active ingredient);
  • Carefully assess the characteristics of your breasts and skin to choose the best surgical procedure;

Before the operation, you will receive detailed instructions regarding your diet, smoking and alcohol habits (alcohol and cigarettes should be avoided). You will also receive instructions regarding medication and will read and sign an informed consent form detailing all aspects of the operation. In addition to routine pre-surgical tests (CBC, coagulation factors, and ECG), patients are advised to undergo the following examinations to rule out pre-existing conditions:

  • Mammary ultrasound;
  • Andrological examination with male and female hormone levels;

Preoperative Assessment

Surgical treatment of gynecomastia is a highly personalized procedure requiring a thorough examination by a specialist. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will assess the shape and size of the chest, areola, and nipple, and will show you the possible aesthetic improvements offered by the most modern surgical techniques for your specific case.

 

Surgical Technique for Gynecomastia Correction

Gynecomastia surgery is painless, lasts approximately 90 minutes, and is performed under either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The surgical technique depends on the degree and type of gynecomastia and is tailored to the patient's needs. If the main cause is excess glandular tissue, surgical removal of this tissue will be performed. Usually, a peri-areolar incision is sufficient. If, however, the amount of tissue to be removed is significant and excess skin also needs to be removed, the surrounding skin will also be operated on. The resulting scar will in any case be minimal. If, on the other hand, the cause is a significant presence of adipose tissue, liposuction alone may be performed, with a small incision at the edge of the areola, resulting in practically invisible scars. If both factors are present, both techniques will be combined.

 

Postoperative Phase

After gynecomastia correction surgery, a dressing is applied to the chest, which is then replaced by a compression elastic bandage to be worn for two to three weeks. In the immediate postoperative period, you may experience some numbness in the chest, swelling, fatigue, and bruising around the treated area. Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam baths, and direct sun exposure for the first 15 days. You can gradually resume your normal activities three weeks after the operation.

 

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