Male Breast (Gynecomastia)
All men have a small amount of breast tissue lying underneath their nipples. For the majority of men, this tissue remains small throughout their lives. For some men, however, this tissue can enlarge producing the appearance of a female breast. The most common cause is due to hormonal stimulation at the time of puberty. Other causes may include obesity, some medications, and marijuana use. The degree of gynecomastia varies greatly but is always a source of anxiety and embarrassment to the patient. There are several ways to treat gynecomastia depending upon how much tissue is present, the position of the nipple and if there is excess fatty tissue in combination with the enlarged breast tissue.
1- SURGERY:
If the condition is mostly fatty tissue and only a small amount of breast tissue then ultrasonic liposuction may be considered. The chest wall can be contoured through 2 small incisions on each side. This is done under sedation in an outpatient setting.
1 –AFTER SURGERY:
The downtime for this procedure is minimal. Most men can return to work within a week and resume exercise in 2 weeks. A compression garment is worn for 3-4 weeks after surgery.
2-SURGERY:
If there is a larger amount of breast tissue present, then a combination of liposuction with an incision at the edge of the areola (dark tissue around the nipple) may be considered. This incision allows for direct removal of breast tissue resistant to liposuction.
2-AFTER SURGERY:
The downtime for this procedure is also minimal. The patient may return to work within the week and may resume exercise in 2-3 weeks. A compression garment is worn for 3-4 weeks after surgery.
3-SURGERY:
In another scenario, such as massive weight loss, there can be a combination of breast tissue and retained fatty tissue with excessive skin and even drooping of the chest. In this case, the nipple may need to be repositioned and the excess skin removed. This may take two procedures staged several months apart for the best results.
3-AFTER SURGERY:
The downtime with this procedure is longer secondary to a more complex procedure. Most men return to work in 1-2 weeks and to exercise in 3 weeks. A compression garment is worn for 3-4 weeks after surgery.
To answer all of your surgical questions and for detailed discussions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Antimarino.
