Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast and affects an estimated 40-60 percent of men. There is no real known cause in most cases, although certain drugs and medical issues have been known to be linked with male breast overdevelopment.
Surgery to remove fat and/or glandular tissue will result in a flatter, firmer, and more contoured chest.
1. How will my Plastic Surgical Arts surgeon evaluate me for surgery?
Your surgeon will examine the breast tissue and take photographs for your medical record. He will consider the quality of your skin and elasticity for reshaping to match your body's new contours.
During the consultation, you should be prepared to discuss your comprehensive medical history. Relevant information includes current and previous medical conditions, drug allergies, previous medical treatments, history, and current medications. Your Plastic Surgical Arts surgeon’s recommendation is based largely on the complete and accurate information you provide during this initial visit. Your surgeon may, in some cases, recommend a mammogram, or x-ray, to rule out other causes.
If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, be sure to tell your plastic surgeon. He may recommend that you stabilize your weight prior to undergoing surgery. If you are smoking, your surgeon will not perform this surgery. Smoking cessation is necessary for 3 weeks prior to surgery, as well as three weeks following surgery.
Your gynecomastia surgery may be performed at the Lincoln Surgical Hospital, Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, or BryanLGH Medical Center. Prior to the procedure, a general anesthetic is administered; this type of anesthetic ensures you are asleep throughout the procedure. This procedure may also be performed using a local anesthesia and intravenous sedation.
Once the surgery is completed, you will be required to remain in the recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. Your chest will be wrapped in gauze dressings, or an elastic bandage. In some instances, small drain tubes will be placed to avoid the accumulation of fluids. You may be permitted to go home after a few hours, unless you and your plastic surgeon have determined that you will stay in the hospital or surgical facility overnight.
Following the procedure, you may have some swelling. This is common and may take several weeks to fully resolve. You may be instructed to wear an elastic pressure garment for a few weeks. The majority of the swelling should dissipate in the first few weeks, however, it may be three months or longer, before the final results of your surgery are apparent. Should you experience fluid collections, or seromas, aspirations may be required.
It is common to have minor complications associated with your incisions. Usually this is due to tension on the skin or the internal sutures working up to the top of the skin. They are easily treated with washing with soap and water daily, applying antibiotic ointment, and covering with a clean dressing.
Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of complications. We ask that you delay smoking for at least three weeks prior and three weeks after surgery.
Infections are uncommon, but can occur. If you are experiencing high fevers, excessive drainage from the incisions, redness, or swelling, you should contact our office at 402-483-2572.
Unless you gain or lose a significant amount of weight, the results of your surgery will be long lasting. Gravity and the effects of aging may cause some changes in your outcome.
Post Op Instructions