Male gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition of pathologic male breast enlargement. This pathologic condition is not a malignant tumor. In most cases the disease is caused by the increased level of female hormone estrogen in blood. It allows treating it using medicines. But surgical removal of such defect is the fastest and most optimal option.
Process of male gynecomastia surgery:
There are two types of gynecomastia: true and false. Depending on the pathology type a relevant procedure is performed to remove it. In case of true gynecomastia the overdeveloped glandular breast tissue is removed through an incision. The main cause of false gynecomastia is the increase in fatty tissue over the breast area. So, its treatment involves laser liposuction intended to remove the excess fat.
A half-oval shaped surgical incision is made at areola. Cyst and excess tissue are removed through the open wound. Upon completion of the procedure the tissue specimens are handed over for histologic examination. After plastic surgery a drain tube is inserted and the wound edges are closed using a cosmetic suture. Then, the chest will be tightly wrapped with a bandage.
Recently many surgeons use endoscopic technique in gynecomastia treatment. It greatly reduces the damaging of the breast tissues. In the course of this procedure a small incision is made in the armpit. This incision is used to insert an endoscope with a mini camera and tiny surgical instruments under the skin. A surgeon removes the excess glandular tissue using these instruments and monitoring the whole process on display. As the incision is made within the axillary hair region so a postoperative scar will be almost invisible. The endoscopic method also reduces blood loss.
Preparation to male gynecomastia surgery:
Preoperative preparation includes a comprehensive clinical examination of a patient. General and biochemical blood and urine tests, ECG, and X-ray examination are ordered for him. Blood is additionally tested to reveal hidden infections, such as AIDS, syphilis, hepatitis, etc.
The Rh factor, blood sugar level and clotting ability are determined. It is obligatory to have a consultation with a general practitioner and endocrinologist. During examination it is necessary to tell about any current diseases and taken medicines.
A patient must cease gym workouts and avoid any other physical activities affecting chest muscles. It is also crucial to stop smoking and consuming alcohol. It is because smoking results in significant reduction of oxygen supply to the damaged tissues impeding recovery after surgery.
It is important to stick to a low-calorie diet as well. No eating and drinking is allowed 7-8 hours before surgery. Taking a shower is required before the procedure.
Surgery/procedure duration: 1 hour
Anesthesia: general anesthesia
Postoperative period:
After the procedure a patient stays at the clinic for 2 or 3 days and is attended to by the doctors. If no complications are observed a patient will be discharged. In case the endoscopic method has been used a patient will be discharged on the next day after surgery. Within the first hours after surgery a patient can feel pain or heaviness in the chest. Swelling and bruising can also occur at the incision site. In such case a doctor prescribes analgesics and antibiotics to prevent infections.
The stitches are removed in a week. It is required to wear a compressive bandage for another month. A patient can resume his normal working schedule within a week after surgery.
