Gynecomastia is the condition of excess breast tissue in mlales. Gynecomastia can be the result of hormonal fluctuations, heredity, certain prescription drugs, or anabolic steroid use. Breasts may sag and nipples/areola may be enlarged due to stretched skin.
Gynecomastia can present unilaterally (in one breast) or bilaterally (in both breasts). Planning surgery to reduce the size of the breasts also means taking into account the cause of gynecomastia, age and overall health, and composition of breast tissue (fat, glandular tissue, and skin). It is recommended that men wait until their overall physical growth is complete and their weight is stable before undergoing surgery to correct gynecomastia.
It is possible that if the condition is caused primarily by excess fat deposits, liposuction alone can be used for treatment. With the removal of fatty tissue, glandular tissue, and skin, an incision is made around the areola. The area of the nipple/areola can also be reduced or repositioned if it has become enlarged or misplaced due to stretching of the skin.
Initial healing will involve swelling and some discomfort at the incision sites which will minimize within 1-2 weeks. Patients are usually able to return to work relatively quickly and to resume light physical activity. Vigorous physical activity and/or heavy lifting should not be performed for the first month after surgery and depending on Dr. Self’s recommendations.