Gynaecomastia Surgery: Common Questions Answered
Gynaecomastia surgery is becoming increasingly common as more men seek a flatter, firmer chest. Living with enlarged breasts can be incredibly tough for males, affecting your self-confidence on a daily basis.
Small things a lot of men take for granted — such as going topless at the beach — may be difficult, if not impossible. Sadly, if you have gynecomastia, all the exercise and healthy eating won’t remove your breast tissue.
Dr. Adam Najem has performed male breast reduction for a large number of men, helping them achieve the chest they have always wanted. If you’re considering surgery to reduce the size and shape of your breasts, you’re sure to have questions — and we answer them for you below.
What Causes Gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia refers to swollen breast tissue in males of various ages.
While breasts are a natural part of the female form, boys and men developing a more prominent chest may be concerned that something is going wrong in their body.
There may be no need to worry, though. In most cases, gynecomastia is triggered by a hormonal imbalance, due to the presence of more estrogen than testosterone. One or both breasts can be affected, sometimes causing a disproportionate swelling.
Gynaecomastia isn’t always permanent: boys going through puberty may be affected on a temporary basis only. Men between the ages of 50 and 69 tend to have a higher chance of developing gynecomastia too.
Excessive marijuana-smoking is also known to cause swollen breasts in males. Certain medications can cause gynecomastia, such as:
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Chemotherapy
- Anabolic steroids
- Ulcer medications
- Heart medications (like digoxin)
- Health conditions that affect hormonal balances can be responsible for the onset of gynecomastia, including:
- Kidney failure
- Hypogonadism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Liver failure / cirrhosis
Will my Gynaecomastia come back?
In the vast majority of cases, no: gynecomastia will not return after your surgery.
This is because most of the gland beneath the nipples is removed during gynecomastia surgery, and these are highly unlikely to grow back to the extent that your breasts will return to their enlarged form.
Fat is removed from the area during gynecomastia surgery too, creating a firmer chest overall. However, as some fat cells remain after the procedure, significant weight gain in the future could lead to bigger breasts.
It’s vital to bear in mind, though, that this will be fatty growth rather than glandular and maintaining a stable weight will help you retain a flatter chest.
If you start using anabolic steroids or take specific medications (as discussed above) after your surgery, there is a chance the gynecomastia may return.
For the vast majority of patients, then, gynecomastia will not come back after surgery.
Do I have ‘Puffy Nipples’ or Gynaecomastia?
Some men may believe they have gynecomastia due to a slight ‘puffiness’ at the nipples / areola.
This can still cause embarrassment and leave you reluctant to remove your top in front of people, even partners, but it may not be as severe as gynecomastia.
If you’re unsure, a practitioner with experience of gynecomastia surgery will be able to tell you following an examination. You can then make an informed decision about undergoing surgery.
How long does it take to Recover from Gynaecomastia Surgery?
Recovery periods vary, but generally, you should be able to return to work within a week of your gynecomastia surgery.
However, you should avoid any form of heavy lifting or straining for the first two weeks after the procedure. This may be difficult if your job involves manual labour or you are a committed weight-lifter, but pushing yourself can lead to post-op bleeding.
Compression garments will be worn for up to four weeks to reduce swelling and minimize the risk of fluid / blood collecting.
Can I take Medication for Gynaecomastia?
The only proven effective treatment for gynecomastia is surgery.
Be wary of any products that claim to shrink or reverse gynecomastia. The glandular tissue under the nipple / areola can only be removed through surgical procedures.
We hope this answers all of your questions! If you have gynecomastia, Dr Adam Najem can help. Book your consultation online or call us today.
