Some men develop enough breast tissue to give the impression of “woman-like” breasts while others dislike the puffy look to their nipples. This condition is called gynecomastia and often leads to feelings of embarrassment in social environments where going without a shirt is the norm. Most cases are physiologic (the normal part of development) and are caused by normal hormonal changes during puberty and early adulthood. In most cases, the enlargement of the breast tissue subsides with time. In others, this enlargement persists and it is these patients who often seek improvement in our offices. Our office also serves a large and growing population of bodybuilders who seek private and individual care to achieve their aesthetic goals.
Gynecomastia can be corrected in most cases with outpatient surgery under either local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or a light general anesthesia. The excessive breast tissue is removed leaving minimal scarring for others to see. The length of the procedure varies from 30-60 minutes for minor cases under local anesthesia to 1 to 1 1/2 hours for cases under general anesthesia. Patients leave the private operating facility with a light bandage on each breast and usually require a compression garment for one month following surgery. A swift and uneventful recovery following gynecomastia surgery allows most patients to return to work within a few days following surgery.
What can the correction of my gynecomastia do for me?
Every man who considers having removal of his excess breast tissue has his own personal reasons. Most common of these is to simply feel less embarrassed in the gym or at the beach when a bare chest is desired.
How is the excess breast tissue removed?
The amount of tissue to be removed is different from patient to patient. The techniques to be used will be decided after carefully listening to the patient’s desires following a detailed physical examination. Minor cases can be managed with excision of small amounts of tissue under the nipple area. In more moderate cases, liposuction is used to remove the majority of the breast tissue and a small surgical incision is made at the edge of the areola to allow the removal of the remaining tissue. In severe cases of gynecomastia where patients present with enough tissue to resemble a woman’s breast, a breast reduction will be performed with incisions around the areola and under the breast. All incisions are closed with sutures that are buried, dissolve by themselves and are not visible to the patient. Patients leave for home with a light dressing and compression garment in place that Dr. Zelt will remove on the first postoperative visit a few days later.
Where is the procedure performed?
Gynecomastia procedures are performed on an outpatient basis in one of two local accredited private operating facilities.
How long does the procedure take?
In most cases, this procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes for minor cases performed under local anesthesia and 1 to 1 ½ hour for more moderate cases under a light general anesthesia.
When can I resume my normal activities?
Most patients can return to light activity and work within a few days following surgery. Return to normal physical activity, including sports, is permitted after 4 weeks.
Are there any risks to gynecomastia surgery?
Generally, the procedures performed to correct gynecomastia are very safe and reliable. During your office consultation, Dr. Zelt will discuss with you the associated risks and complications. Fortunately, most are very uncommon and the vast majority of patients enjoy an uneventful surgery and recovery period.
If you have any other question related to gynecomastia please contact our office.