Zafer ATAKAN MD. | Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia

It is a female-like growth of the breast region in male patients. It can occur due to the effects of certain drugs or hormonal imbalances. It has three main types: Glandular, fatty-glandular, and simple fatty. The growth occurs with real breast tissue in the glandular type, and with adipose tissue cells in the fatty type. In the glandular type, liposuction is performed in conjunction with surgical excision. If the mass consists of only adipose tissue, liposuction alone can be performed. In cases where the mass grows excessively and causes sagging of the breast, the excess skin may also be removed besides that mass.

Depending on hormonal changes, Gynecomastia is most commonly seen in males at the age of 13-15 or older. In boys, spontaneous regression occurs in 90% of cases within a year. However, the likelihood of breast cancer should be remembered when it is seen in adult males. In addition, other conditions that lead to gynecomastia should also be investigated in such patients. These include; Hepatitis, cirrhosis, lung cancer, lung diseases, cancers of certain organs, thyroid gland diseases, testicular diseases, heroin use or the use of other drugs, the use of steroids with intent to gain weight or muscle, and the use of certain drugs. It is useful to analyze the mass with ultrasound before surgical intervention. In this way, it is possible to ascertain whether it consists of only adipose tissue.

When to Consider the Surgery?

If you are reluctant to remove your shirt in public, swim, participate in sports, or exercise at a gym.
If you want to improve your overall body proportions.
If you experience psychological discomfort associated with "man boobs" or large breasts.
If you want to increase your social confidence.

Considerations

You can feel comfortable revealing your chest contours, clothed or unclothed.
You can gain more social confidence.
You can enjoy permanent results.

What To Know Before The Surgery ?

Asymmetry (difference between the two sides), hematoma (accumulation of blood under the skin), seroma (accumulation of fluid under the skin), nipple necrosis (tissue decay), and infection may develop. However, the likelihood of tissue loss and infection is very low. After surgery, antibiotics are used as a precautionary action. A postoperative corset is used with the intent to ensure the adhesion of the breast skin and reduce the accumulation of fluid.

Surgery

The excess fat tissues are usually accessed through an incision made in the shape of a half circle around the nipple. The surgery can be done under local or general anesthesia.

After Surgery

A corset is worn immediately after surgery, for the purpose of creating pressure on the operated area. The corset should be worn for at least 2 weeks, and preferably 4 weeks. If liposuction is performed, the resultant swelling will disappear in about 4 weeks. The breast skin will adhere to the chest wall. The sutures are removed 7 to 10 days after surgery. Patients can return to their normal activities within 3 to 4 days.