Gynecomastia is a condition where breast tissue in men is overdeveloped. In most cases, our surgeons use liposuction to correct gynecomastia. Depending on the amount and type of tissue to be removed, surgical excision may also be required. In the latter case, the recovery time is somewhat longer than in liposuction-only gynecomastia procedures. In any case, most of our gynecomastia patients are back to full routines within a couple of weeks.
Gynecomastia Treatment
Over the years, William Umansky, MD and Jeffrey Umansky, MD have earned a reputation as leading San Diego Male Breast Reduction specialists – the result of numerous personal referrals from satisfied patients.
Many men feel embarrassed due to overly developed breast tissue. Our San Diego plastic surgeons are dedicated to helping men enhance both their appearance and confidence through gynecomastia surgery. They use the most advanced surgical techniques and technologies to deliver the best possible results for all of their gynecomastia patients.
What is Gynecomastia?
How is a Gynecomastia Procedure Performed?
The goal of gynecomastia surgery is to restore a normal male chest contour and to correct deformities of the breast, nipple or areola. Surgical options include liposuction, excision (surgical removal of tissue) or a combination of both approaches. Glandular breast tissue is denser than fatty tissue and is not appropriate for liposuction.
- The choice of surgical technique depends on the type of tissue that is causing the excess chest prominence. Dense glandular tissue usually requires an excision.
- Laser- assisted liposuction (“Smart Lipo”) has improved the results of gynecomastia correction. In laser-assisted there is less bruising and greater skin tightening than traditional liposuction. There is also a better ability to remove denser tissue. However, laser-assisted liposuction is not effective for correcting very glandular gynecomastia. The fatty and glandular components of the breast will be assessed before surgery
- Minimally invasive gynecomastia surgical procedures have gained popularity. In the “pull-through technique,” a very small incision is made at the bottom areolar edge. Following liposuction, the glandular tissue from the overlying areola is pulled through the incision. The major advantage of this procedure is the smaller incision. The length of the incision will be based on the individual’s anatomy.
- In rare cases of severe gynecomastia, skin resection and nipple movement (nipple transposition) may be necessary. There is more scarring in these cases, Every effort is made to hide the scars in normal creases.
Recovery and Healing from a Gynecomastia Procedure
Recovery time after surgery for gynecomastia depends on how severe the condition is and what was performed. The average patient, treated with liposuction alone, will likely be able to resume exercise in 1-2weeks and return to work in 2-3 days. Patients who require excision may require a little more time for recovery.
Gynecomastia surgery usually has a relatively easy recovery period. A compression vest is generally used for the first few weeks. Although a dramatic difference is seen within the first week, some swelling persists for several months.
What are the Risks and possible Complications?
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk, however, certain risks can be minimized by following both the pre and post-op advice and instructions provided by our board-certified plastic surgeons. Some of the potential complications of all surgeries include:
- Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
- Infection
- Changes in sensation
- Scarring
- Irregularities or loose skin that may necessitate additional procedures.
Common Concerns with Gynecomastia Procedure
What will my Gynecomastia incisions and scars be like? Scars resulting from gynecomastia surgery vary, depending on the amount of breast tissue and the elasticity of the skin.
- If the patient has gynecomastia composed of only fat, then the scars will be tiny (just large enough to admit a liposuction cannula).
- With firm breast tissue, there is usually a scar under the areola.
- If the areolas are large and need reduction also, then the scar goes all the way around the areola.
- If the patient has large female-like breasts, then the scars may extend across each side of the chest hidden in a crease.
Scars resulting from gynecomastia surgery vary, depending on the amount of breast tissue and the elasticity of the skin.
- If the patient has gynecomastia composed of only fat, then the scars will be tiny (just large enough to admit a liposuction cannula).
- With firm breast tissue, there is usually a scar under the areola.
- If the areolas are large and need reduction also, then the scar goes all the way around the areola.
- If the patient has large female-like breasts, then the scars may extend across each side of the chest hidden in a crease.
How long will the results last? Gynecomastia surgical results are permanent, assuming the patient’s weight is stable. If thecondition arose from the use of medication or anabolic steroids, further use could lead to recurrence.
Gynecomastia surgical results are permanent, assuming the patient’s weight is stable. If thecondition arose from the use of medication or anabolic steroids, further use could lead to recurrence.
Other Options Sometimes hormonal conditions or certain medicines contribute to gynecomastia. These should be addressed before surgery is performed.
Sometimes hormonal conditions or certain medicines contribute to gynecomastia. These should be addressed before surgery is performed.
Patient Reviews
“I absolutely LOVE the results of my Male Breast Reduction. Dr. Umansky and his staff went above and beyond to take care of me and provide the best results possible!”