BREAST REDUCTION FOR MEN / GAYNECOMASTIA
Some men have excess localized fat and/or excess glandular tissue in one or both breasts. In most cases, the cause is unknown. Sometimes this is attributable to an imbalance of the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone. However, hereditary conditions, diseases including certain endocrine disorders, tumors, and chronic diseases or certain drugs such as anti-depressants, blood-pressure medications, marijuana and steroids may also cause the condition.
While not a serious medical problem, enlarged breasts can cause pain and also embarrassment.
How is it done?
Gaynecomastia is usually performed under local anaesthesia with twilight sedation or as an in-patient in hospital.
If your enlarged breasts consist primarily of excessive fatty tissue, liposuction may be used. If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause, the tissue may be cut out with a scalpel. This excision may be performed alone or in conjunction with liposuction.
During an excision procedure, the incision is made either on the edge of the nipple (areola) or in the underarm area. The excess glandular tissue is cut away, as well as fat and skin from around the pigmented area surrounding the areola and from the sides and bottom of the breast by working through the incision. Major reductions that involve the removal of a significant amount of tissue and skin may require larger incisions and more visible scars.
For liposuction-only breast reduction, a small incision of less than a half-inch in length around the edge of the areola is made. Alternatively, the incision may be made in the underarm area. You may feel a vibration or some friction during the procedure but generally it is pain-free.
How long does the surgery take?
Time in surgery is typically 1-2 hours but a more extensive male breast reduction may take longer
What should I expect during recovery?
Whether you have undergone liposuction, excision with a scalpel or both for your gynecomastia, you will feel discomfort for a few days. The pain can be managed with oral medications.
To help reduce swelling, you will probably need to wear an elastic pressure garment continuously for up to two weeks and for a few weeks longer at night. Although the worst of the swelling will subside in the first few weeks, it may be three months or more before the final results of your surgery will be apparent.
You will be encouraged to begin walking on the day of surgery and to return to work when you feel well enough which could be after two of days. It is advisable to avoid sexual activity for up to two weeks and heavy exercise for about three weeks. You will be unable to participate in any sport or job that carries a risk of a blow to the chest area for at least four weeks. Your normal activities should be resumed after about one month.
Stitches are removed one to two weeks after the procedure.
What costs are involved?
Surgeon fees start from $4,400*. Hospital and anaesthetic fee are extra.
*The cost of cosmetic surgery can vary (higher or lower), depending on the complexity of the procedure, the required results, cost of implants, aftercare treatment and the area of the body where the surgery is being performed. Further costs may be incurred for anaesthetist and hospital fees if applicable. For specific pricing information, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Tiong.