Gynecomastia is a condition associated with enlarged breast gland tissue in boys and men. The issue usually occurs as a result of hormonal imbalances and can affect one or both breasts. It is most common among older men, newborns, and boys undergoing puberty. 

Although the condition is not dangerous, it can be difficult to cope with as it can make people feel embarrassed, which might consequently hurt their ability to face life with confidence. The good news is that, in some cases, the condition might go away on its own. But even if it persists, it can be treated through gynecomastia surgery. 

Here is everything you need to know about gynecomastia surgery in Beverly Hills.

What Is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery can be understood as a surgical procedure performed to reduce the size of male breasts. It is also known as male breast reduction. It is meant to help men and boys with enlarged breasts (gynecomastia) achieve a flatter, toned, masculine chest contour. The procedure can also boost a patient’s self-image and confidence. 

In some cases, gynecomastia can cause breast pain, and the surgical procedure may effectively relieve this pain and consequently improve a patient’s quality of life.

How Is Gynecomastia Surgery Done?

Gynecomastia surgery is usually done under general anesthesia or IV sedation. This is meant to ensure that the patient doesn’t experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Your surgeon will help you choose the best anesthesia for you. 

After administering the anesthesia, the surgeon will make the necessary incisions, typically along the edges of the pigmented section of the nipples or other areas of the chest. The incisions allow the surgeon to remove the enlarged breast tissue. The underlying fat may also be removed or redistributed to achieve optimal masculine chest contour. 

Finally, the incision will be closed with sutures and skin adhesives.

The Ideal Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery

The ideal candidate for the procedure is a male adult with enlarged breast tissue. However, in addition to having enlarged breasts, a good candidate for the procedure should:

  • Be a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking. This is because smoking can cause poor healing
  • Be in good physical health, free of medical conditions that could impair the healing process
  • Be at least 18 years of age. If you are below 18, the surgeon may advise you to wait a little longer since gynecomastia that develops in puberty may go away without surgical interventions
  • Have a healthy, stable weight

During your initial meeting with the surgeon, the surgeon will examine your medical records and conduct several tests to determine if the procedure is safe for you.

Risks of Gynecomastia Surgery

Like any other surgical procedure, gynecomastia surgery is not without risks. Some of the risks associated with gynecomastia surgery include:

  • Fluid accumulation
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Irregular chest contour
  • Damage to deeper tissues like lungs, blood vessels, and nerves
  • Breast asymmetry
  • Unfavorable scarring
  • Persistent pain
  • Surgical site infection
  • Anesthesia risks
  • Poor wound healing

Before you can sign the consent to have gynecomastia surgery, your surgeon will explain the risks for you to make an informed decision. If you have any questions or concerns, your surgeon will be happy to address them accordingly.

FAQs About Gynecomastia Surgery

Do I need gynecomastia surgery?

This depends on whether you actually have gynecomastia. This is because having large breasts as a male does not necessarily mean that you have it. For instance, you may have large breasts because you have significantly gained weight. In such a situation, you will be advised to try losing weight through traditional weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise. However, if it is determined that you have enlarged breast tissue, you may be advised to go for gynecomastia surgery.

What will happen if gynecomastia is not treated?

Gynecomastia is not a serious medical issue, and in most cases, nothing serious will happen if it is not treated. However, in some cases, it may cause breast pain. Besides, gynecomastia may cause some people to lose self-confidence and suffer low self-esteem. Lastly, the condition can be unhygienic, and it might cause skin irritation as sweat accumulates under the skin folds of a patient’s sagging breasts.

Will gynecomastia go away on its own?

In a lot of cases, gynecomastia goes away after puberty without any treatment. This is why most surgeons do not perform the procedure on patients below the age of 18. However, in some cases, the condition or its effects may persist, making it necessary for patients to seek gynecomastia surgery.

What other procedures can be combined with gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is strictly about removing or reducing breast tissue in males. However, if you have excessive fat in addition to enlarged breast tissue, your surgeon may use a fat reduction technique, such as liposuction, to give you a flatter and firmer chest contour.