Gynaecomastia Reduction

Male breast reduction is a commonly requested procedure. Male breast hypertrophy results as a common part of the pubertal growth spurt, and can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and socially disabling. Very occasionally the drive to male breast development is the result of a hormone imbalance and has an underlying cause requiring investigation. This is rare however, and the majority require a body contour operation by a plastic surgeon.

The Surgery

The surgery involves a range of manoeuvres which depends upon the degree of gynaecomastia. The simplest form involves a mild excess of breast tissue without excess skin. This can be treated by liposuction, or liposuction plus limited open surgery via an infra - areolar scar. The aim is to excise the breast disc, leaving a normally projecting, symmetrical nipple position. This is often difficult to achieve, and nipple contour asymmetries may occur. More complicated forms of gynaecomastia involve excess breast and overlying skin, often with nipple asymmetry. In these cases bespoke surgery is planned to balance and symmetrise the two sides. As far as possible, the aim is to limit the scar to an infra - areolar position, as, unlike the female breast scars are harder to disguise on the male chest. The more the skin excess the longer the scar will need to be. Often there will be the need for one procedure to achieve the major aim, followed by a second tidy up procedure, and in these cases the gynaecomastia treatment is a process rather than a single operation. Liposuction and open surgery are often combined.

Recovery

The recovery period is not lengthy, and a return to work can be achieved in a few days. Normal home activity and driving can be achieved within a week under normal circumstances. A chest girdle is worn for 3-4 weeks, to limit the swelling and help with comfort. Routine pain killers can be used as necessary. A return to sporting activity can be achieved in 4-6 weeks.

London Chambers of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

Mr Raj H Ragoowansi MB MSc FRCS (Plast), Director, Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Mr Jonathan A Britto BSc MB MD FRCS (Plast), Director, Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Central Chambers : 69 Wimpole Street, London W1G 8AS
Regional Chambers : 4 Cherry Blossom Lane, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 6JQ.
Practice Manager : Julie Hughes,
Tel : 0870 418804 or 01621 826816,
Fax : 01621 826815.

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