What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is called an abnormal breast growth in men. The word Gynecomastia is the combination of two Greek words;”gyne” (woman) and “mastos” (breast) and it was first used by Galen.
What causes Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement)?
Although the exact etiology is not known, there are several causes of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia patients may have to undergo blood tests, which include, hormone levels, thyroid function tests, liver function tests and urinalysis. Endocrinology consultation can be taken from gynecomastia patients.The underlying causes may be determined by analysis of these blood tests and physical examinations by an endocrinologist. Generally, the specific cause can not be found, and it could only be an aesthetic problem.
Adolescent gynecomastia which can be encountered in about 75% of adult men, can disappear in 75% of the cases without treatment. For this reason, adolescent boys between the ages of fourteen to sixteen, should wait for a spontaneous resolution.
What are the Types of Gynecomastia?
There are three main types: ü a glandular type,ü a lipomatous type,ü a mixed type.While the real breast tissue provides the glandular type breast growth, in the lipomatous type, there is an increase in adipose tissue. In the mixed state, there is both an increase in breast tissue and adipose tissue.
Which Operations are Performed to Correct Gynecomastia?
The surgical technique to correct gynecomastia is chosen according to the type of gynecomastia. If the male breast consists of mainly fatty tissue, the choice of the treatment is, Liposuction. If the gynecomastia is mainly consisted of breast tissue, surgical removal of breast tissue is the choice of treatment. A Gynecomastia Surgery scar, is concealed within the transition between the darker areolar skin and the lighter chest skin. In addition to fatty and glandular tissue, if there is excess skin, skin excision may also be required. Gynecomastia surgery can be done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery generally takes one to two hours.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
The patient may have a masculine chest with gynecomastia surgery (with liposuction alone or combination of liposuction with surgical galndular tissue excision). The ideal patient for gynecomastia surgery is the patient who,
- Has overly developed breasts and
- Has big breasts which is consistent after weight control and exercise.
From What Age can Gynecomastia Surgery be Performed?
Physiological Gynecomastia, can be seen in 75% of adolescent males, which resolves most times, by itself, without any treatment.
Consequently, this surgery can be performed from the end of adolescence, that is, from the age of 17-18.
Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery
After Gynecomastia Surgery, patients can be discharged from hospital on the day of surgery with initial dressings which will be in place for three days. Patients should wear a special compressive garment for the following two to three weeks to prevent swelling and to support chest contour during healing process. In general, patients can return to their work within five to seven days. However, vigourous exercise or heavy lifting is not allowed for four weeks.
