Male Breast Reduction (Gynaecomastia Treatment) at Avenue Plastic Surgery: Welcoming patients considering plastic and cosmetic surgery from Melbourne, regional Victoria, other parts of Australia, and overseas
Gynaecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for “woman-like breasts” Gynaecomastia is a common condition that affects at least 40% of men. It usually affects both breasts and although it is occasionally linked with the injection of anabolic hormones, the majority of cases have no known cause.
In some cases the male breast gland itself is enlarged but in most cases the gynaecomastia is due to an excess of fat in the chest under the breast.
Men with gynaecomastia may feel profoundly self-conscious and embarrassed by their appearance. It is common for men with gynaecomastia to always wear a t-shirt when at the beach and to avoid activities (such as swimming) where their chest is exposed. Many have been teased about their appearance and this may be the cause of their self-consciousness.
- Male Breast Reduction Before-and-After Photos
- Aim of Surgery
- Commonly Asked Questions
- Experience You Can Trust
Breast Reduction Before and After Photo
- Case 1
- Case 2
Aim of Surgery
The aim of surgery for gynaecomastia is to reduce the volume of fat and breast tissue so that the male chest looks normal. This should be done with minimal scarring. Modern techniques allow most of the excess tissue to be removed by liposuction through a very small incision in the skin of the chest. Occasionally, however, where the firm glandular tissue is contributing to the problem, then this has to be removed through a small incision between the areola of the nipple and the skin.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are there any scars?
Fortunately, the scarring produced by gynaecomastia surgery is minimal. In many cases only a small, one centimetre scar on the chest wall is required for liposuction to be performed. Should the breast gland itself require removal then an incision around the lower half of the areola is made so that the scar will blend into the junction between the areola and surrounding skin. The scars may become reddened and thickened after about six weeks but usually fade gradually over the next six to twelve months until they become pale and inconspicuous.
Scar resolution is aided by wearing Micropore™ tape and regular firm massage with rosehip oil for six months after surgery.
How long with the result last?
The result of this type of surgery is usually permanent, although if the patient gains a substantial amount of weight, excess fat may re-form in the region.
Is nipple sensation altered?
If liposuction alone is used to correct the gynaecomastia, then nipple sensation should be relatively unaffected. Should the breast gland itself be removed by an open operation, then there is likely to be a substantial alteration in nipple sensation.
Are there any complications?
No major complications are anticipated. Occasionally, excessive bleeding may cause a haematoma (blood clot) or excessive bruising, but the post-operative use of a pressure garment makes this rare. Infection is also rare as antibiotics are administered during surgery. Occasionally, fluid may collect in tissue under the skin following surgery and require drainage.
What type of anaesthetic is used?
Most patients prefer a general anaesthetic. However, for a smaller area, local anaesthetic supplemented with sedation can be used. Blood transfusion is not required.
Is it a painful operation?
It is rare for patients to experience excessive pain following this procedure and any discomfort in the early post-operative period can be relieved by medication.
How long does the operation take?
The normal operating time is less than one hour.
How long am I in hospital?
Recent advances in anaesthesia and plastic surgery enable gynaecomastia surgery to be performed safely with the patient returning home the same day. There are many advantages in avoiding hospitalisation, such as minimising the instance of side effects from drugs, minimising the incidence of infection, reducing anxiety, preservation of privacy and rapid recovery. Patients are discharged in the afternoon with a firm garment dressing and instructions to rest at home.
What happens after the operation?
Patients are seen the next day when the garment is removed and the operative site checked. Showering is then allowed and it is anticipated that the sutures will be removed after ten to fourteen days.
What post-operative care is required?
It is suggested that you wear a supportive pressure garment night and day for two weeks following surgery, as this prevents swelling and provides support to the healing skin. Scars should be taped with skin-coloured Micropore™ tape and this tape should be replaced twice a week and the scars massaged with rosehip oil. It is important not to expose the scars to direct sunlight until there are fully healed. The final results are often not seen for six to twelve months.
When can I return to work?
Most patients arrange for one week off from work, although many are able to return to more sedentary types of occupation earlier.
When may I resume social and sporting activities?
It is best to avoid exercise for two weeks following surgery.
Experience You Can Trust
Our plastic surgeon, Mr. Allan Kalus, is knowledgeable and experienced, having performed hundreds of male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) procedures in Melbourne as day cases. He is technically skilled and has the highest professional qualifications, being a Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of England, a Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, a Fellow of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, a member of The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a member of The Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
If you are considering male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) surgery we invite you to contact Avenue Plastic Surgery in Melbourne, Victoria in order to discuss your specific needs.
If you are visiting this page you might be interested in reading about the Ultrashape Body Contouring and Spot Fat Reduction treatment. It is an office procedure that requires no anaesthetic, is safe, non invasive and selectively destroys fat cells in the chosen body region. To learn more visit www.ultrashapemelbourne.com.au
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If you would like to ask a question about Plastic Surgery, or you would like to arrange an appointment, contact us on 03) 9521 1777 or fill in the form below
Avenue Plastic Surgery
20 The Avenue,
Windsor 3181,
Victoria, Australia.
Ph. 61-3-9521-1777
Fx. 61-3-9521-3837
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