Gynaecomastia, also known as male boobs or moobs, is one of the most common condition faced by men across the world. It is estimated that roughly 50-60% of men have some form of gynaecomastia. Though asymptomatic in most cases, it does affect a man’s psyche and his self-image.

What causes Gynaecomastia?

In Gynaecomastia, the breast tissue develops excessively due to some hormonal imbalance during adolescence. The male chest, as we see it, has a variable amount of fat and gland (breast tissue which is dormant due to testosterone). Hormonal fluctuations affect this balance, stimulate gland growth in an irreversible manner while fat content varies with age, lifestyle and genetic predisposition.

Hence, the surgery aims to correct both, the gland and the fat excess. The surgery assures permanent removal of the gland, although fat may return depending on your lifestyle, diet and exercise patterns, comorbidities. 

When do you think you need the surgery for correction of your gynaecomastia?

•  You are not comfortable to remove shirt/upper garment in public
• You are shy of participating in outdoor sports, swimming, going to gym
•  You want to improve your body contour
•  You want to improve your self-image and confidence

What to expect from your Gynecomastia Surgery

•  Remove excess gland and fat
•  Make chest flat and look toned
• Barely visible scar, can call scar-free as such
•  Boosts your morale, self-esteem and confidence
•  Make your body look more proportionate, balanced and athletic
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The surgery

The grade of gynaecomastia dictates the type of anaesthesia. Keyhole incisions are made in the armpits and the underside of the areola-skin junction (well concealed) through which cannula is inserted. Liposuction is performed first for fat extraction followed by gland excision from same key hole port
s. All ports are closed with absorbable stitches. Pressure garment is worn on table.

Recovery

Gynecomastia is an outpatient procedure which entails same day discharge, and complete recovery taking up to 4-6 weeks.

•  Temporary bruising and swelling for the first couple of days may be seen.
•  Daily routine may be resumed from the next day. Desk job
  s may be resumed 3 days post-op. However, sudden movements (those involved in driving, bike riding, etc) should be avoided for at least 2-3 weeks. Physical workout may be resumed after 6 to 8 weeks.
• Compression garment must be used for at least 4-6 weeks to enhance the surgical outcome. It helps make the definition and contour better.

Risk involved in Gynecomastia Surgery

Like every surgery, this one too has some risks involved and potential complications, such as: Anaesthesia related bleeding, hematoma (collection of blood clot), a chance of infection, less sensation in nipple/areola, scarring, seroma (collection of fluid), asymmetrical results, palpable nodularity, persistent induration (few days to weeks), persistent altered sensation (few days to weeks), hypo/hyperpigmentation of the areola/skin junction, deep vein thrombosis and persistent pain (days to weeks).

These complications are avoidable and minimizable, if performed by a competent plastic surgeon