Gynecomastia is a condition in which the male breasts are enlarged or over developed. This procedure also known as gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction surgery and is one of the fastest growing cosmetic procedures in plastic surgery. Men are increasingly more aware that their concerns can be corrected and the procedural technique is simple and safe. In addition new techniques have developed to able superior results compared to those performed in the past. Men at any age can have gynecomastia surgery and this can be an embarrassing concern that could affect one’s self-esteem and self-confidence. For some men, gynecomastia may impact their daily activities making it challenging in intimate situations and doing some physical activities.
Gynecomastia surgery in our Toronto clinic, is generally indicated when there is excessive fat deposited, excessive glandular tissue or the combination of both fat and glandular tissue in the chest (breast region). The cause of gynecomastia can be the result of heredity, disease, drug use or hormonal conditions. Male breast reduction surgery improves the appearance of the chest and is directed towards both the conditions of fat and glandular tissues.
Surgery for gynecomastia is also called reduction mammoplasty and involves the use of liposuction to remove the excess fat deposits through making a small incision underneath or on the side of the chest. The glandular tissue is then removed either through this same small incision, or through a separate incision just inside the edge of the areola. In most men, the overlying skin is elastic enough to shrink back down to create a flatter appearance to the chest. Rarely, the excess skin can be removed in a second procedure if the skin does not shrink sufficiently.
Gynecomastia surgery is an individualized procedure and the choice to have surgery is a personal choice. A good candidate for surgery would require the patient to be in good health, have normal and stable weight and the breast development would have stabilized. Risks associated with male breast reduction surgery is rare but, include poor scar healing, bleeding and infection. Changes in nipple/breast sensation can occur although rare and are usually temporary.
Surgery for Gynecomastia in our Toronto clinic is performed on a day-surgery basis under general anaesthesia. Patients will be able to return home the very same day. Patients are required to wear a surgical garment under their clothes for a few weeks, which gently compresses the chest to help minimize bruising and swelling. The surgery is performed in an accredited facility either at Toronto East General Hospital / Michael Garron Hospital or Women’s College Hospital where Dr. Beber is a faculty member. The patient would need to make arrangements for a driver to take him home and stay with him for 24 hours. Patients are able to return to most activities within a few days, and can return to exercising in a few short weeks. Follow-up appointments will be arranged for the patient at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. Follow up care is extremely important to achieve optimum results.