Gynecomastia

WHAT IS GYNECOMASTIA?

Gynecomastia is a condition of over-developed or enlarged breasts in men that may develop at any age. The condition is often the result of hormonal changes, heredity, obesity, or the use of certain drugs.

Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self-confidence. Some men with this condition avoid intimacy and certain physical activities to hide this condition.

Gynecomastia is characterized by:

• Excess localized fat;
• Excess development of glandular tissue;
• Occasionally, excess breast skin.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?

Gynecomastia surgery candidates:

• Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments;

• Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing;

• Non-smokers and non-drug users;

• Men with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving the physical symptoms of gynecomastia;

• Men who are physically healthy and within normal weight ranges;

• Men who have realistic expectations;

• Men whose breast development(s) have stabilized;

• Men who are bothered by the feeling that their breasts are too large;

Men who have realistic expectations.

Adolescent men may benefit from surgery, although secondary procedures may be needed in the event breast development continues in the future.

RECOVERY

During the recovery period after gynecomastia surgery , dressings or bandages will be applied to your incisions and an elastic bandage or support garment may be used to minimize swelling and support your new chest contour as it heals after surgery. You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply topically or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection.

RESULTS

Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve. Final results of gynecomastia surgery may take 3 to 6 months. Although incision lines are permanent, these do fade over time.