Gynaecomastia
About gynaecomastia
Gynecomastia, or the enlarged male breast, is a common condition that affects up to 70% of men. It can be caused by an imbalance of hormones or just genetics and can leave a man feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable. Male breast reduction surgery can help restore the chest to its original shape and size.
Gynaecomastia is a medical condition that affects men in which their breast tissue becomes enlarged, forming what looks to be female-like breasts. It is caused by an imbalance in hormone levels that leads to the development of enlarged breast tissue in males. Gynaecomastia can be known as ‘man boobs’ or ‘moobs’.
Although gynaecomastia can affect men of any age – including newborns, pubescent boys, and adult males – it is most commonly seen in older men due to hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues.
Most abnormal cases have no causes however some cases have an underling cause which can include:
Hormonal disturbances
Genetic conditions
Systemic disease such as kidney or liver failure
Tumours that secrete certain hormones
Drugs which can interfere with normal hormonal balance – this includes many cardiac medications, some antibiotics, tricyclic antidepressants. Withdrawal of causative drugs can result in resolution of gynaecomastia in 60% of cases.
Gynaecomastia Surgery (also known as Male Breast, Man Boob or Chest Reduction Surgery) involves the removal of fat and glandular tissue from the male chest. Sometimes this is combined with excision of skin and repositioning of the nipple. This is performed to restore a masculine shape to the chest.
What are the benefits of gynaecomastia surgery?
Aside from improved aesthetics, gynaecomastia surgery has several other benefits. For one, it can help improve self-esteem by restoring confidence in one’s body image. Additionally, the procedure can reduce physical discomfort associated with overly large breasts such as back pain or skin rashes caused by chafing against clothing. Furthermore, because male breast reduction surgery removes excess glandular tissue, it can help reduce the risk of certain medical conditions such as gynecomastia-associated cancers or benign tumors.
What is involved in gynaecomastia surgery?
Gyaecomastia surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes approximately three hours. Drains are usually not used.
What is the recovery for gynaecomastia surgery ?
The recovery process following gynaecomastia surgery varies from patient to patient depending on factors such as age and overall health history. Generally speaking though, you should plan for some downtime—typically around two weeks—following your procedure while your body heals and adjusts to its new shape. During this time you may experience some bruising and swelling which should gradually subside over time. Dr van der Rijt will provide specific instructions on how best to care for yourself during recovery so be sure to follow those carefully for optimal results.
Am I a good candidate for surgery?
The best candidates for surgery are patients who:
Are physically and mentally healthy
Have realistic expectations
Are willing to accept the scars associated with surgery
Have already lost the weight they want to lose (if this applies)
Have been a stable weight for at least 6 months (ideally 12 months)
You may not be suitable if
Have not lost the weight they want to lose
Have fluctuations in their weight
Are very overweight or obese (BMI >35) – ideally your BMI should be less than 30 for best results
Have multiple medical problems
Are on blood thinning medication
Are actively smoking
Is there a medicare or health fund rebate ?
Medicare/Health fund rebate: Gynaecomastia surgery is covered by a Medicare item number which means with appropriate health fund cover, some rebates may be claimable from Medicare and the Health Fund, therefore reducing out of pocket costs.