Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is an enlargement of the mammary gland in a man. It can affect one or both breasts and occurs in about 30% of men. Gynecomastia is often encountered in adolescents and later in old age, caused by metabolic disorders, hormonal disorders and the use of certain medications. Their influence causes enlargement of the mammary gland, fat accumulation, and in many men a combination of both factors.

Every man suffering from gynaecomastia should have a consultation with an endocrinologist before surgery, as well as an ultrasound of the mammary glands and testicles to rule out cancer. Gynecomastia can be treated conservatively in some cases, by administering drugs that inhibit the production of estrogen. In many cases, however, it is necessary to undergo surgery, which involves reducing the breast gland and fat (using liposuction).

The Course of the Operation

Gynecomastia is performed under general anaesthesia during hospitalisation, usually for 1 day. The breast gland is removed from the incisions around the areola and the surrounding area is suctioned by liposuction, if necessary ( large gynecomastia) the skin is also reduced. The skin incisions are sutured with absorbable suture material.

Postoperative Course

After surgery, a chest bandage or elastic compression vest must be worn for about 3 weeks to ensure that the skin adheres well to the chest. Physically strenuous activity and sports should be avoided for at least 1 month.

Risks

• bleeding with the possibility of surgical revision and possible blood transfusion
• infection in the wound
• slowed wound healing with persistent secretion from the wound
• loss of part of the skin, part or all of the areola and nipple. There may be a need to re-stitch the skin or replace it with a skin graft from elsewhere on the body
• unsightly, keloid scars. The quality of the scarring cannot be determined in advance and depends primarily on the type of healing in each individual

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