Gynecomastia
Overview
Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast tissue. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may develop at any age. The condition is commonly associated with hormonal changes but can also be influenced by medications, certain medical conditions, weight changes, or other factors.
For some men, gynecomastia causes tenderness, fullness beneath the nipple, or an enlarged chest contour. For others, the main concern is aesthetic, affecting clothing choices, physical activities, and self-confidence.
When gynecomastia persists and does not improve by addressing an underlying cause, male breast reduction surgery can remove excess glandular tissue and fat and, when necessary, excess skin to create a flatter and more proportionate chest.
Understanding Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia develops when there is an imbalance between the hormonal influences of estrogen and testosterone on breast tissue. It is particularly common during periods of hormonal change, including adolescence and later adulthood.
Possible contributing factors include:
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Natural hormonal changes
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Certain prescription or recreational drugs
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Anabolic steroid use
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Some endocrine, liver, kidney, or other medical conditions
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Aging
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Weight gain occurring alongside true gynecomastia
An important distinction is that gynecomastia involves glandular breast tissue, whereas pseudogynecomastia primarily results from excess fatty tissue. Many patients have a combination of both.
Because breast enlargement can occasionally have another medical cause, proper evaluation is important before considering cosmetic surgery.
Consultation & Diagnosis
During consultation, Dr. Michel Alain Danino evaluates the amount and distribution of glandular tissue, excess fat, skin quality, nipple and areola position, and overall chest symmetry.
Your medical history, medications, supplements, and possible contributing factors are also reviewed. Depending on the findings, additional evaluation such as blood tests, ultrasound, mammography, or referral to another physician may be appropriate before surgery.
Once persistent gynecomastia has been established, treatment can be tailored to the type and severity of the condition.
Gynecomastia Surgery
Male breast reduction is designed to create a flatter, firmer and more naturally masculine chest contour. Depending on the anatomy, treatment may involve liposuction, direct removal of glandular tissue, skin reduction, or a combination of techniques.
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Anesthesia: Gynecomastia surgery may be performed under general anesthesia or, in selected smaller procedures, local anesthesia with sedation.
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Liposuction: When excess fatty tissue contributes to the enlarged chest, small incisions are created and a thin cannula is used to remove fat and contour the surrounding chest. Liposuction alone may be sufficient for selected patients whose enlargement is predominantly fatty and whose skin has good elasticity.
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Glandular Tissue Removal: Firm glandular tissue cannot always be adequately removed with liposuction. In these cases, an incision—commonly placed along the border of the areola—provides direct access to the tissue.
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Skin & Areola Correction: Patients with more significant gynecomastia may also have stretched or excess skin. Additional skin can be removed when necessary, and the size or position of the areola may sometimes be adjusted.
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Closure & Compression: The incisions are carefully closed and dressings are applied. Drains may occasionally be used when more extensive tissue removal is performed. A compression garment is generally worn during the initial healing period to support the chest and help control swelling.
Recovery & Results
Gynecomastia surgery is commonly performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and temporary changes in sensation are common during early recovery. A compression garment is usually worn for a period recommended by the surgeon, and strenuous upper-body exercise is temporarily restricted.
The improvement in chest contour is visible early, but the final result develops gradually over several months as swelling resolves and the tissues settle.
Scars are permanent but generally fade and become less noticeable with time.
Risks & Possible Complications
As with any surgical procedure, male breast reduction has potential risks, including:
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Bleeding or hematoma
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Infection
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Fluid accumulation
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Delayed wound healing
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Changes or loss of nipple sensation
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Asymmetry
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Contour irregularities
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Unfavorable scarring
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Changes in nipple or areola shape
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Under- or over-correction
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Rare compromise of nipple or skin circulation
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Need for revision surgery
The individual risks and expected outcome should be discussed carefully before proceeding with surgery.
Locations
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Suite 402 - 4e étage
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Phone
514-845-9898