Gynecomastia Surgery After Weight Loss

An overweight or obese person has a tremendous burden to carry. Significant physical health issues are associated with obesity, but the resulting gynecomastia (excess male breast growth) can have a considerable emotional impact on daily life in addition, and concealing the chest with clothing can be a daily annoyance. While the abdomen and flanks are also usually proportional, they don’t always conceal a feminine chest and the psychological effects it can have.

As a man gains weight, the male genetic marker triggers fat accumulation in the chest, abdomen, and flanks. Even if the weight is lost, these areas experience less fat loss. Excessive weight gain increases both fat and breast glandular tissue development in the chest. With excess glandular tissue comes an increase in estrogen levels as well, increasing breast development.

After significant weight loss, breast fatty tissue should reduce in proportion to achieving a healthy weight. However, male breast glandular tissue and skin might remain. A variety of techniques can reduce the extra skin, but the most common for massive weight loss patients is a double-incision mastectomy with a free nipple graft. The advantage of this procedure is that the chest becomes tight and flat. The disadvantage is that the nipple loses its sensation, but it can be lifted to a much better location and be re-sized. This technique produces excellent results with very high patient satisfaction.

The grade of gynecomastia will determine which surgical technique is required to adequately remove excess tissue. In some cases, a two-stage procedure is an option to minimize incisions and confine the incision to around the areola. This technique is often used in Grade 3 cases of gynecomastia. In the second stage, a peri-areolar lift is performed four months later. For most cases, however, a more aggressive approach is needed, requiring a longer, U-shaped incision technique, similar to a mastectomy. Keep in mind, though, that the scars will fade with time.

When is the best time to get my surgery?

A good time to have surgery is when you are comfortable with your weight. Ideally, when you reach a stable weight that you can maintain, that is the best time to have gynecomastia surgery.

In general, male breast reduction surgery is incredibly safe and most patients have smooth recoveries. However, despite the greatest attention to safety on the part of the patient and the surgeon, complications can occur.

What is gynecomastia surgery recovery?

Recovery is generally comfortable and straightforward. Pain is minimal, and pain medications are typically only used for a few days. You can drive in a few days and return to professional work in five to seven days. You can begin exercise again in three to four weeks.

What will I look after my gynecomastia surgery?

You can expect a flat, contoured male chest. You will have longer incisions than with the standard gynecomastia surgery, gland excision, or liposuction. These scars will improve over a year’s time, and some men even camouflage the scars with artistic tattoos.

Is gynecomastia surgery safe?

Gynecomastia surgery is a very safe procedure. In general, it is a small operation done under general anesthesia. Some cases are even performed under local anesthesia. Recovery is short and comfortable.