Gynaecomastia
The male chest shape symbolically represents virility and strength. The ideal male chest is muscular and lacks excess adipose tissue. Gynaecomastia (or ‘man-boobs’) is a condition affecting male patients where there is an excess of breast glandular tissue and/or fat. It is most common in teenage boys and older men. It has many causes such as hormone imbalance, obesity and side effects of certain medication or can occur without an obvious cause. It can be a source of embarrassment and lack of self-esteem in men with this condition. Management is centred in treating reversible causes such as hormone imbalance and surgical body sculpting procedures such as liposuction and surgical removal of the excess tissue. At TPSG we offer a minimal scar technique to address the problem.
Who is suitable for gynaecomastia surgery?
Men with a normal weight stand to gain the most from surgical procedures as compared with those who are overweight. Furthermore, this a very effective treatment to get rid of excess skin and tissue in patients who have undergone a weight loss programme. At TPSG we offer surgery to all men above the age of 18. Prior to surgery all patients will have a detailed history taken and examination performed. If necessary, patients will be referred to an Endocrinologist to exclude any causes that can be treated medically. Surgery for gynaecomastia is not suitable for patients who seek weight loss by means of surgery.
What areas can be treated?
Typically it is the anterior chest and torso of the male patient that is treated.
How do I decide what I need?
At TPSG all patients will be seen by the surgeon who is going to perform the procedure on them. All concerns are discussed and an appropriate, achievable and safe gyanecomastia procedure will be chosen.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia as a day case procedure. Two small incisions (one for each breast) are made on the chest wall where it is least noticeable, to allow the introduction of the liposuction cannula. After an adequate liposuction, through the same small incision excess breast gland is carefully removed. The incisions are closed with an absorbable suture and small dressing applied over it. All patients are then placed in an elasticated compression garments to decrease oedema. Patients are advised to wear the garment at all times for six weeks.
What happens after the operation?
Patients can go home the same day after the operation and are encouraged to mobilise, discomfort permitting. They will be allowed to shower 24-48 hours after the operation. Driving, office type job and light duties are permitted 10-14 days after the operation. Sporting activities can be resumed after 6 weeks. It will take 3-6 months for the full benefit of the surgery to be realised once the swelling has settled down.
How long do the results last?
The benefits of body contouring procedures can last a life time. However, if the patient gains weight excessively for example, the shape of the chest area can return to the pre-operative state. Therefore, it is essential for patients to maintain their results by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
What are the risks of gynaecomastia surgery?
On the whole in carefully selected patients the risk of surgery is minimal. Minor skin infection, mild contour deformity, misshaped nipple and bleeding after the operation are some of the more common risks. At TPSG, utmost care and attention is paid to every detail of the surgical journey to ensure the risk of any complication is absolutely minimised.
Further information on gynaecomastia surgery:
BAAPS Patient Information On Gynaecomastia