4. How is gynecomastia surgery performed?
Step One – Anesthesia
The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
Step Two – The Incision
There are three types of incisions when it comes to male breast reduction surgery.
Liposuction technique: When your gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be used to remove it. A cannula (a thin hollow tube) will be inserted through several small incisions by your surgeon.
The cannula is then pushed back and forth to loosen excess fat, which is then suctioned out of the body via a vacuum.
Excision technique: This technique is used when your glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to fix your gynecomastia. It is also necessary if your areola needs to be reduced and your nipples repositioned. Incision patterns during this technique will vary depending on the specific conditions of your gynecomastia and your surgeon’s preference.
Combination of techniques: Sometimes both the liposuction techniques and excision techniques are combined together.
Step Three – Closing the Incisions
Sutures are used to close the incisions which will be absorbed/dissolved by your body in two to four weeks, so they will not need to be removed. Steri-strips or surgical glue may also be used over your stitches.
Dressings and bandages will be applied to your incisions and an elastic bandage or support garment may be used to minimize any swelling and support the new chest contours. In some cases, small tubes with drains may be placed under the skin temporarily to remove any excess blood or fluid.
Step Four – See the Results
Immediately after surgery the results will be apparent and will continue to improve as the swelling lessens. The final result of your male breast reduction may take three to six months.