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Do you feel that your breasts make you look less manly? Do you hesitate to go shirtless due to those big breasts?
If yes, do not worry, there is a chance to get back your manly physique with male breast reduction treatment.
The enlargement of the breast tissue in male is known as gynecomastia. It can be due to increased oestrogen levels or imbalance between oestrogen and testosterone levels. Other factors such as being overweight, use of drugs can also cause increased breast size in men. It can occur in one or both the breasts. Usually, the condition is harmless but can be embarrassing for some men.
Overview
Male breast reduction treatment is the most effective treatment for enlarged male breast. This method aid in making the chest look firmer, flatter and the contour look more masculine. This surgery can be performed successfully and safely in both adults and teenagers.
ELIGIBILITY
The breast reduction surgery can be performed in a male who:
- Has enlarged breasts that bother them
- Is physically healthy and has no medical condition that can affect healing
- Does not smoke or take drugs
- Has practical expectation with a positive outlook
PREPARATION BEFORE PROCEDURE
During the first visit to the plastic surgeon, your information about the past medical, medication and family history will be obtained and a complete physical examination would be done. . Some tests like blood tests to check for hormone level t and mammograms will be done to detect the cause of enlarged breasts. You may be also asked to take up other imaging tests like
- CT scan
- MRI Scan
- Tissue biopsy
- Breast ultrasounds
PROCEDURE TYPE
There are two types of male breast reduction procedure:
Liposuction: In this method, only the breast fat is removed and not the breast glandular tissue. It is the preferred method for treating gynecomastia due to excess fatty tissue.
Tissue excision: In this method, the glandular breast tissue or skin is along with the breast fat are removed to reduce the enlarged male breast.
In some case, liposuction and tissue excision, both can be performed together to treat gynecomastia.
ABOUT PROCEDURE
The technique may vary depending on the type of procedure performed.
Liposuction: The procedure can be performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation. Once the anaesthesia is effective, fluid is administered in the breast tissues. Next, an incision is made on the lower half of the nipple area. A cannula (a thin hollow tube) is inserted through the incision. The cannula is moved in a controlled back and forth motion to loosen the excessive fat. This loose fat is then removed by a vacuum suction. Once the fat is removed, the incision is closed and stitched. In case, where a large amount of fat is removed, the cut is extended, and nipples are repositioned.
Tissue excision: The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation. Depending on the condition and preference, an incision will be made to remove the excess breast fat and glandular tissue. Once fat is removed, the nipples will be repositioned, and the incision will be closed.
POST-PROCEDURE CARE
After completing the procedure, you will be moved to the recovery unit. A drainage tube will be placed in the wound to drain excess fluid or blood that may build-up under the incision. You may feel numbness due to anaesthesia, but it will go within a few hours. You will be given medication for managing pain after the procedure. You may be asked to wear a compression garment to reduce the swelling and support the new chest contour.
RECOVERY TIPS
The following measures may aid in speedy recovery after breast reduction treatment:
- Take all the prescribed medication on time
- Maintain a stable weight
- Do not put excessive pressure or force on the incision site
- Follow the care instruction given by the doctor
- Avoid doing vigorous exercise for at least three months after the surgery
- Avoid lifting heavy weights for a few weeks
- Wear the compressive band/ elastic garment for 1-4 weeks
FACTORS AFFECTING COST
The cost of the treatment depends upon:
- The anaesthesia used
- The expertise of the doctor
- The technique used
FAQ
The common side effects of male breast reduction procedure are sore breasts and scars. A person may experience sore breasts for a few weeks, but scars may take several months to fade.
Breast abscess and breast cancer can also cause enlarged breasts.
No, in most of the cases swollen breast of the infant will go away on its own within 2-3 weeks after birth.
In most of the cases, the results of the breast reductionsurgery are permanent. However, if the condition occurs due to certain drugs or weight gain, you need to avoid taking those drugs and maintain a stable weight to sustain the results of the surgery.
The swollen breast tissue during puberty may take six months to two years to be completely resolved
