Gynecomastia FAQs: 22 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting It

Gynecomastia is a condition in which males develop enlarged breast tissue. It is a common condition that can affect males of any age, although it is most commonly seen in adolescents and older men. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, certain medications, and certain medical conditions. The condition is usually benign, meaning it is not cancerous, and it can often be treated with medication or surgery. If you are concerned about gynecomastia, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Can Men Reduce Breasts with Surgery?

Yes, men with gynecomastia can choose to have surgery to reduce the size of their breasts. There are several different surgical options for treating gynecomastia, and the best option for you will depend on the cause and severity of your condition, as well as your personal preferences.

One surgical option is liposuction, which involves removing excess fat from the breasts using a hollow stainless-steel tube called a cannula. This procedure is typically done on men with gynecomastia caused by excess fat in the breast tissue.

Another option is a surgical excision, which involves removing excess breast tissue and skin through an incision. This procedure may be necessary for men with more severe gynecomastia or for those who have a significant amount of excess skin after liposuction.

It is important to discuss your options with a qualified plastic surgeon who has experience in treating gynecomastia. They can help you determine the best course of treatment based on your individual needs and goals.

Can Gynecomastia be Treated Without Surgery?

In some cases, gynecomastia can be treated without surgery. The treatment options will depend on the cause of the condition.

If the cause of the gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy to correct the imbalance and reduce the size of the breasts. This may involve taking medications to reduce the levels of estrogen or increase the levels of testosterone in the body.

If the cause of the gynecomastia is the use of certain medications, your doctor may recommend stopping the medication or switching to a different medication that does not cause gynecomastia as a side effect.

Losing weight and exercising regularly may also help reduce the size of the breasts in men with gynecomastia caused by excess fat. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be effective for all men with gynecomastia, and they may not be able to fully resolve the condition.

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the cause of your gynecomastia and the most appropriate treatment options. They can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to pursue surgery as a treatment option.

Which Type of Doctor is Best for Gynecomastia?

A plastic surgeon is typically the best type of doctor to see for treatment of gynecomastia. Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who have specialized training in surgical and nonsurgical procedures to reshape and reconstruct the body, including procedures to treat gynecomastia.

If you are considering surgery for gynecomastia, it is important to choose a plastic surgeon who is board-certified. Board certification is a way to ensure that a plastic surgeon has the necessary education, training, and experience to safely and effectively perform plastic surgery procedures.

In addition to seeing a plastic surgeon, you may also need to see other types of doctors, such as an endocrinologist (a doctor who specializes in hormonal imbalances) or a primary care doctor, to help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your gynecomastia. It is important to work with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure that you receive the most appropriate care for your condition.

How do I Know if I Have Gynecomastia or Fat?

There are a few key differences between gynecomastia and excess fat in the breast area that can help you determine which condition you may have.

Gynecomastia is a condition in which males develop enlarged breast tissue due to hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or certain medical conditions. It can cause the breasts to become larger and feel firm or rubbery to the touch. Gynecomastia typically affects both breasts evenly, and it is not usually associated with significant weight gain.

On the other hand, excess fat in the breast area is often the result of weight gain and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, and certain medical conditions. Excess fat in the breast area can cause the breasts to become larger, but they will usually feel soft and flabby to the touch. Excess fat in the breast area is not typically associated with hormonal imbalances or other underlying medical conditions.

If you are concerned about the size or appearance of your breasts and are not sure whether you have gynecomastia or excess fat, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. They will be able to examine your breasts and determine the cause of any changes in size or appearance usually by screening techniques.

What Medication Gets Rid of Gynecomastia?

There is no medication that can specifically “get rid” of gynecomastia. However, if the cause of your gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy to correct the imbalance and reduce the size of the breasts. This may involve taking medications to reduce the levels of estrogen or increase the levels of testosterone in the body.

It is important to note that hormone therapy is not always effective in treating gynecomastia, and it may not be appropriate for all men with the condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to fully resolve the condition.

It is also important to note that hormone therapy can have potential side effects, and it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.

How do I get Rid of Loose Skin After Gynecomastia?

If you have loose skin after gynecomastia surgery, there are a few options that may help improve the appearance of your chest.

One option is to undergo a surgical procedure called a skin excision. This procedure involves removing excess skin through an incision, and it can be done in combination with liposuction to remove excess fat.

Another option is to undergo a procedure called a skin tightening procedure, which can be done using lasers or radiofrequency energy. These procedures can help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can help improve the elasticity and firmness of the skin.

It is important to note that these procedures may not be suitable for everyone, and they may not be able to fully resolve loose skin after gynecomastia surgery. It is important to discuss your options with a qualified plastic surgeon who has experience in treating gynecomastia to determine the best course of treatment for you.

Is it Necessary to Wear Compression Garments After Gynecomastia Surgery?

Wearing compression garments after gynecomastia surgery is typically recommended to help support the healing process and reduce swelling. Compression garments are typically worn for 4 weeks after surgery, and they should be worn as directed by your surgeon.

The specific length of time that you will need to wear a compression garment will depend on the specific procedure you had and your individual recovery. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when and how to wear the compression garment, as well as when to start and stop wearing it.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure that you have the best possible outcome from your surgery. Wearing a compression garment as directed can help reduce swelling, support the healing process, and improve the final appearance of your chest.

If you have any questions or concerns about wearing a compression garment after your surgery, it is important to speak with your surgeon. They will be able to provide you with specific guidance based on your individual situation.

Do Compression Shirts Work for Gynecomastia?

Compression shirts, also known as compression garments, can be helpful in managing the swelling and discomfort that can occur after gynecomastia surgery. They can also help support the healing process and improve the final appearance of the chest.

Compression shirts are typically worn for 4 weeks after surgery, and they should be worn as directed by your surgeon. The specific length of time that you will need to wear a compression shirt will depend on the specific procedure you had and your individual recovery.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure that you have the best possible outcome from your surgery. Wearing a compression shirt as directed can help reduce swelling, support the healing process, and improve the final appearance of your chest.

If you have any questions or concerns about wearing a compression shirt after your surgery, it is important to speak with your surgeon. They will be able to provide you with specific guidance based on your individual situation.

Will There be Numbness After Gynecomastia Surgery?

It is common for there to be some numbness after gynecomastia surgery, as the nerves in the area may be temporarily damaged during the procedure. This numbness is usually temporary and should resolve within a few weeks to a few months after surgery.

However, it is important to note that every patient is different, and the extent and duration of numbness can vary. In some cases, numbness may persist for a longer period of time or may be permanent.

If you are experiencing numbness after your gynecomastia surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care and to notify them of any concerns you may have. They will be able to assess your condition and provide you with guidance on how to manage any numbness you may be experiencing.

It is also important to keep in mind that the final results of your surgery may not be immediately apparent, and it can take several weeks or months for swelling to fully resolve and for the final results to become apparent.

When Can I Return to Daily Life After Gynecomastia Surgery?

The amount of time it takes to return to your daily activities after gynecomastia surgery will depend on the specific procedure you had and your individual recovery.

In general, it is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after gynecomastia surgery, and these symptoms may last for several weeks. You may need to take some time off work or other activities to allow your body to heal and recover.

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when and how to resume your normal activities, and it is important to follow these instructions carefully. They will also provide you with guidance on how to manage any discomfort you may be experiencing and how to care for the surgical site.

It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, for at least a few weeks after surgery. You should also avoid exposing the surgical site to direct sunlight or tanning beds for several weeks after surgery.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions and listen to your body as you recover from gynecomastia surgery. If you have any concerns or questions about your recovery, it is important to speak with your surgeon.

Can Gynecomastia Come Again After Surgery?

It is possible for gynecomastia to recur after surgery, although this is relatively uncommon. The risk of recurrence can depend on the specific cause of the condition and the type of surgery that was performed.

If the cause of the gynecomastia was a hormonal imbalance or the use of certain medications, the condition may recur if the underlying cause is not addressed. In these cases, it may be necessary to continue taking medications or undergo additional treatment to manage the condition.

On the other hand, if the cause of the gynecomastia was excess fat or excess skin, the condition may recur if you gain weight or do not maintain a healthy lifestyle after surgery. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help prevent the recurrence of gynecomastia.

It is important to discuss the risks and potential for recurrence with your surgeon before undergoing gynecomastia surgery. They can provide you with more specific information about the likelihood of recurrence based on your individual circumstances.

Do You Need to Take Stitches off After Gynecomastia Surgery?

Whether or not you need to have stitches removed after gynecomastia surgery will depend on the type of stitches that were used.

If dissolvable stitches were used, they will typically dissolve on their own over time and do not need to be removed. Dissolvable stitches are made of materials that are designed to break down and be absorbed by the body over time.

If non-dissolvable stitches were used, they will typically need to be removed by a healthcare professional a few days to a week after surgery. The specific timing will depend on the location of the stitches and your individual recovery.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your stitches and when to return for any necessary follow-up visits. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that you have the best possible outcome from your surgery.

If you have any questions or concerns about your stitches or the healing process after your surgery, it is important to speak with your surgeon.

Does Gynecomastia Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer?

Gynecomastia is a benign (non-cancerous) condition that does not increase the risk of breast cancer. It is not a precursor to breast cancer and does not increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

However, it is important to note that gynecomastia can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as a hormonal imbalance or the use of certain medications, that may increase the risk of breast cancer.

If you are concerned about the risk of breast cancer, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. They can provide you with information about your individual risk and recommend appropriate screening and prevention measures based on your age, family history, and other risk factors.

It is also important to practice breast self-examination and to undergo regular mammogram screenings to detect any breast abnormalities early. Early detection of breast abnormalities can increase the chances of successful treatment and can help reduce the risk of serious complications.

Does Surgery for Gynecomastia Hurt?

Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure. You may experience some discomfort and pain after the surgery as the anesthesia wears off and the effects of the procedure begin to set in.

Your surgeon will provide you with pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may experience after the surgery. It is important to take the medication as directed and to let your surgeon know if you are experiencing any significant pain or discomfort.

It is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after gynecomastia surgery, and these symptoms may last for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site and manage any discomfort you may be experiencing.

Is Gynecomastia Surgery Safe?

Gynecomastia surgery is generally considered to be a safe procedure when it is performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, there are some risks and potential complications that should be considered.

Possible risks and complications of gynecomastia surgery include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Asymmetry (unevenness) of the breasts
• Changes in skin sensation
• Unfavorable scarring
• Anesthetic complications
• Poor wound healing
• Persistent pain
• Numbness or tingling in the nipples or breast area

It is important to discuss the risks and potential complications of gynecomastia surgery with your surgeon before the procedure. They can provide you with more information about the potential risks and complications based on your individual circumstances and help you make an informed decision about whether or not to undergo the surgery.

It is also important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to minimize the risk of complications. A board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in performing gynecomastia surgery will be able to ensure the highest level of safety and the best possible outcome.

Will There be Any Scars After Gynecomastia Surgery?

It is common to have scars after gynecomastia surgery, as the procedure involves making incisions in the skin. The specific type and location of the scars will depend on the specific procedure that was performed and the individual’s healing process.

In general, gynecomastia surgery involves making an incision around the areola (the dark skin around the nipple) or in the armpit. These incisions are typically well-hidden and should fade over time.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to help minimize scarring and ensure the best possible outcome from your surgery. This may include using scar treatment products, avoiding sun exposure, and keeping the incision site clean and dry.

It is also important to keep in mind that the final appearance of the scars may not be fully apparent for several months to a year after surgery, as it can take time for the scars to fully heal and fade.

Does Gynecomastia Go Away with Sports?

In some cases, participating in sports and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the size of the breasts in men with gynecomastia caused by excess fat. Losing weight and exercising regularly can help reduce the amount of fat in the breast area and may lead to a reduction in the size of the breasts.

However, it is important to note that while participating in sports and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the size of the breasts in some men with gynecomastia, it may not be effective for all men and may not be able to fully resolve the condition.

If the cause of the gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance or the use of certain medications, participating in sports and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may not be sufficient to resolve the condition. In these cases, additional treatment, such as hormone therapy or surgery, may be necessary to fully resolve the condition.

It is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the cause of your gynecomastia and the most appropriate treatment options. They can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to pursue surgery as a treatment option and can provide guidance on how to manage the condition through lifestyle changes.

Who Can Have Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is typically recommended for men who are in good physical health and who have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. The procedure is typically recommended for men who have:

• Enlarged breast tissue that is causing physical discomfort or embarrassment
• Excess fat or excess skin in the breast area that is not responsive to diet and exercise
• A stable body weights

Gynecomastia surgery is generally not recommended for men who are obese, as the procedure is not intended for weight loss and may not be effective in achieving the desired results. In these cases, it may be more appropriate to focus on losing weight and improving overall health through diet and exercise before considering surgery.

How is the Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery?

The recovery process after gynecomastia surgery varies from person to person, but there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what to expect.

It is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after gynecomastia surgery, and these symptoms may last for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide you with pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may experience after the surgery.

You will need to take some time off work or other activities to allow your body to heal and recover. The specific amount of time will depend on the specific procedure you had and your individual recovery. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when and how to resume your normal activities.

It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, for at least a few weeks after surgery. You should also avoid exposing the surgical site to direct sunlight or tanning beds for several weeks after surgery.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site and manage any discomfort you may be experiencing. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that you have the best possible outcome from your surgery.

Is There an Age Limit for Gynecomastia Surgery?

There is generally no age limit for gynecomastia surgery, and the procedure can be performed on men of any age. However, it is important to note that the risks and potential complications of surgery may increase with age, and the healing process may take longer for older men.

Before deciding to undergo gynecomastia surgery, it is important to discuss your goals and expectations with a qualified plastic surgeon. They can assess your individual circumstances and help you determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you and can help you achieve your desired results.

It is also important to be in good physical health before undergoing any surgical procedure. If you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking certain medications, it is important to discuss these with your surgeon to ensure that the procedure can be safely performed.

In addition to age and physical health, the specific cause of the gynecomastia should be considered when deciding whether or not to undergo surgery. If the cause of the gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance or the use of certain medications, additional treatment, such as hormone therapy or medication changes, may be necessary to fully resolve the condition.

Can Gynecomastia Be Corrected with Vaser Liposuction Method?

Vaser liposuction is a type of liposuction procedure that uses ultrasound energy to liquefy fat before it is suctioned out of the body. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to remove excess fat from various areas of the body, including the chest.

Vaser liposuction can be an effective treatment option for men with gynecomastia caused by excess fat in the breast area. The procedure can help reduce the size of the breasts and improve the overall appearance of the chest.

It is important to note that vaser liposuction is not recommended for men with gynecomastia caused by excess skin or glandular tissue. In these cases, a different surgical procedure, such as traditional liposuction or glandular excision, may be more appropriate.

How much Gynecomastia surgery in Turkey?

The cost of gynecomastia surgery in Turkey, or any other location, can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific procedure being performed, the experience and qualifications of the surgeon, and the facility where the surgery is being performed.

It is important to note that the cost of gynecomastia surgery is typically not covered by insurance, as it is considered to be a cosmetic procedure.

It is recommended to research and compare prices from multiple providers to get an idea of the cost of gynecomastia surgery in Turkey. It is also a good idea to discuss the cost of the procedure with your surgeon before scheduling the surgery.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of the surgery should not be the primary consideration when deciding whether or not to undergo the procedure. It is more important to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can provide you with the highest level of safety and the best possible outcome.