Gynecomastia is a condition that causes the over-development or enlargement of male breast tissue. This condition can begin at any age, but is most often seen during puberty when a change in hormones is present. Gynecomastia is defined by men who have excessive localized fat in the breasts that may be accompanied by disproportionate skin and glandular tissue development. This condition can be unilateral (in one breast) or bilateral (in both breasts) and often causes emotional upset and harm to self-esteem in men. Some men with gynecomastia even refuse physical activity or social situations where their breasts will be exposed to ridicule, such as at the beach or at a public swimming pool. Some men also avoid romantic encounters because of overwhelming feelings of insecurity. A great way to treat this condition is male breast reduction surgery. Here are a few things men should know about the procedure.
Who is a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery?
Good candidates for this procedure suffer great insecurity and restrict themselves socially due to their breast size, are of healthy normal weight, do not smoke and have realistic expectations for what the procedure can achieve. Individuals interested in male breast reduction should be in general good physical health, and have firm elastic skin. Patients with gynecomastia should see a substantial plateau or stop in breast growth that has sustained a pre-determined amount of time by a plastic surgeon. Teenage boys are possible candidates, but breast tissue may continue to grow, which may lead to a second procedure later in life. A plastic surgeon will evaluate patients on an individual basis.
How is male breast reduction performed?
Male breast reduction is either a one or two-step procedure depending on the individual undergoing the procedure and is performed using one of three techniques. In some cases, liposuction is used to removed excess fatty tissue from the breast area. In other cases an incision is made either around the areola (dark skin surrounding the nipple) or beneath the breast to excise excess skin. A third method is to combine both liposuction and skin excision techniques.
What can be expected during recovery from male breast reduction?
Immediately following surgery some soreness, tenderness, swelling and bruising is expected. A support or compression garment is to be worn to assist the body in healing. A drain may be placed to assist the body in removing excess fluid build-up that is a common result of surgery. It is advised that patients take it easy in the immediate days following surgery, and report back to their plastic surgeon for all follow-up visits so that healing can be monitored.
Male Breast Reduction in Calgary
To learn more about treatment for gynecomastia and male breast reduction, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today. Dr. Wayne R. Perron‘s offices are located in Calgary, Alberta, and can be reached at (403) 228-7076. We look forward to hearing from you.
