Gynecomastia (male breast)
The operation of gynecomastia (male breast) requires a high level of expertise.
Gynaecomastia, or male breast, is an enlargement of the male mammary gland, which can be caused by an oversized mammary gland, fat storage or both. As a matter of principle, every gynaecomastia should be accompanied by an examination of the mammary gland and the hormone analysis. Sometimes medication or performance-enhancing drugs can also trigger a gynaecomastia. The development of malignant tumours in the male breast is very rare, but should be excluded.
If the cause of gynaecomastia is hormonal or drug-induced, an attempt can be made to reduce the size of the breast by hormone therapy or by changing the medication. In most cases, however, there is no hormonal change, so that the breast is removed by surgery.
Breast removal is performed under a short general anaesthesia. A small incision around the lower part of the areola is ideal so that the scar is inconspicuous. The gland can then be removed and the fat is adjusted by liposuction. The larger the excess skin, the more visible scars may become necessary. We will discuss which procedure is appropriate for you before the operation. If necessary, small tubes (drains) will be placed to drain off the wound water. Finally, the breasts are bandaged to minimize swelling.
The breasts are tense and painful for several days. Immediately after the operation a compression garment should be worn day and night for a period of 3 to 6 weeks. It eliminates swelling and helps the shrinking of the excess skin. Sport and heavy lifting should be avoided for this period. Light activities, however, can be resumed after only a few days.
The stitches dissolve themselves. The scars are initially firm and slightly reddened. The swelling can last 4 to 8 weeks. During this time the breast is often sensitive to touch. After about 3 months the breast has reached its final shape and size. After about 6 months the scars fade.
Acute complications are extremely rare. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks, such as bleeding, infection or wound healing disorders. Haematomas (bruises) and swellings usually subside quickly. A rare complication is the necrosis of the nipple and areola. An asymmetry or indentation can be corrected by a follow-up operation. We will discuss the exact risks in detail during the consultation.
We will discuss the costs in a personal consultation.
GYNECOMASTIA CAN USUALLY
BE SURGICALLY CORRECTED
Contact
Please make a consultation appointment in advance. Appointments can be made by telephone, online or e-mail contact.
Prof. Dr. med. Hisham Fansa, MBA
Facharzt für Plastische, Rekonstruktive
und Ästhetische Chirurgie (FMH)
Head of Plastic Surgery
Address
Spital Zollikerberg
Trichtenhauserstrasse 20
CH-8125 Zollikerberg
Contact
Phone: +41 44 397 38 60
E-Mail: plast.chir@spitalzollikerberg.ch
www.spitalzollikerberg.ch