Gynecomastia is excessive development of the male breast. This can be due to the enlargement of the breast tissue, excessive collection of fat tissue, or a combination of the above. About 30% of men develop gynecomastia during middle age.
During the operation, the surgeon removes the breast tissue with an areola incision and / or liposuction. In a case of massive gynecomastia, breast reduction is performed as in female breasts. After the operation, thin tube drains are placed in each breast to avoid accumulation of blood or fluids. Scans usually heal well but do remain around the lower half of the nipple.
After the surgery, patients are instructed to wear a firm support garmet for one month. Breasts will be bruised, swollen and uncomfortable for a few days, but pain will not be severe and will be treated with painkillers.
Haematoma is a complication that might occur within the first few hours of surgery and can be treated by a return to the theatre to wash out the blood. If wound infection occurs, then it may involve administering antibiotics until the infection settles. Also, patients might experience swelling and numbness of the breasts. This usually improves with time but sometimes it can be permanent. All scars are permanent. Necrosis of the nipple-areolar complex is a very rare complication. Collection of fluid might occur, especially after excision of large breasts, and might require repeated drainage as an outpatient procedure.
