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Gynecomastia
Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Shapes the form and appearance of the masculine chest.

Procedure Time
1 – 1.5 Hours
Anaesthesia
General Anaesthesia
Recovery Period
10 – 14 Days
Stitch Removal
7 Days Post-op

What is Gynecomastia – Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Gynecomastia is the medical term for the overgrowth of the mammary glands in males. It is also known as male breasts or man boobs, and it is more common in adolescence, making a man’s chest look like that of a female.

Gynecomastia is not dangerous or harmful, but it is often psychologically stressful, especially in young men. It is triggered by an increase of female hormones and a reduction of male hormones. Oestrogens stimulate the mammary glands and they develop inappropriately in a man’s body. Thus, the best way to fix it and regain confidence is through breast reduction surgery.

This issue can be very disturbing in young boys and during puberty, when it usually appears. However, male breast reduction surgery is recommended after reaching maturity. At this time, the hormone levels stabilize and allow doctors to make better decisions.

Causes Of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can develop due to various factors, and understanding these causes is essential in managing the condition effectively. Some common causes include:

1. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in the development of gynecomastia. During puberty, the body experiences an influx of hormones, including oestrogen and testosterone. In some cases, this hormonal imbalance can lead to the temporary enlargement of breast tissue. However, this usually resolves on its own as hormone levels stabilise.

Additionally, older men may also experience hormonal changes as testosterone levels decrease with age. This imbalance can contribute to gynecomastia, making it more prevalent among older males.

2. Medications

Specific medications can result in gynecomastia as a potential side effect. Certain drugs, including anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, and certain anti-anxiety medications, have the capacity to disturb the hormonal equilibrium in the body. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect that a medication you are taking is contributing to gynecomastia.

3. Medical Conditions

Gynecomastia can also be associated with underlying medical conditions. Conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, and certain tumors can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to breast tissue enlargement. Furthermore, obesity is linked to gynecomastia as excess fat can lead to the production of estrogen, further promoting breast tissue growth.

It’s important to note that gynecomastia can occur unilaterally (affecting one breast) or bilaterally (affecting both breasts). The extent of breast tissue enlargement can vary from person to person, ranging from a small, localised growth to more extensive breast development.

Candidates For Gynecomastia Surgery

Male breast reduction surgery for gynecomastia is recommended to fix these issues:

  • An overdevelopment of fatty tissue or mammary gland tissue in the male breasts
  • Enlarged breasts that bulge forward with a protruded areola
  • Hard tissue located in the mammary glands
  • Droopy breasts typically found in obese people
  • Areola tissue that becomes larger than usual or protrudes forward
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How Is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed In Singapore

We have two different methods for gynecomastia surgery at Dream Plastic Surgery Singapore and they should be selected according to each patient’s needs. 

The first option is liposuction for men, which is particularly effective in cases where excess fat due to obesity is the primary issue. The second method is subcutaneous mastectomy, which is more suitable when fibrous tissue, rather than fat, is present in the breast. In certain cases where both fat and fibrous tissue are involved, a combination of these two techniques may be applied to achieve optimal results.

Breast Liposuction

Breast reduction through liposuction is more appropriate when there is intense fat storage in the chest. This is a common cause of gynecomastia, and the surgical procedure is not difficult. After a small incision in the breast area, surgeons use laser and ultrasound technology to liquefy the excess fatty tissue. It is then removed from the breast. Subcutaneous mastectomy can be performed at the same time if the patient also has mammary gland overgrowth.

Subcutaneous Mastectomy

This type of male breast reduction surgery works better when gynecomastia is associated with an overgrowth of the mammary gland. After a small incision around the nipples, the surgeon detects and removes the excess tissue. The tissue will be removed considering the shape of the chest and adjusting the height of the breast accordingly. This is an effective method to correct protruding nipples, also known as nipple reduction.

Recovery From Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Recovering from male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, requires proper care and patience to ensure the best possible results. While the healing process may vary for each patient, here are a few things you can expect:

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

After the procedure, you will likely experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. This is normal. To minimise swelling and support your chest as it heals, your surgeon may recommend wearing a compression garment. You may also be prescribed medication to help ease the pain, and it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for your incisions to prevent infection and promote healing.

First Few Days After Surgery

During the first 3-5 days, it is important to rest and avoid any strenuous activities. While you may resume light activities like walking to encourage circulation, avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or any activities that could put pressure on the chest.

Weeks Following Surgery

Over the next few weeks, swelling will gradually subside. You may even notice improvements in your chest’s appearance. Despite your positive progress, it is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure you’re healing as expected. During this period, your surgeon may recommend avoiding direct sunlight on the scars and continuing to wear a compression garment for optimal results.

Long-Term Recovery

Most patients can return to work and regular daily activities within a week or two, though full recovery may take several months. Physical activities like intense workouts or weight lifting should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks or until your surgeon gives approval. Over time, scars will fade, and the final results of the surgery will become more visible as your body continues to heal.

Final Results

By the three-month mark, most patients notice a significant improvement in their chest contour. These results typically become fully apparent within six months. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help you preserve the results long-term.

Remember, every recovery journey is different, so be sure to consult with your surgeon for personalised guidance throughout the healing process..

Managing Scar Tissue After Gynecomastia Surgery

Scar tissue management is an important part of the recovery process. While modern surgical techniques aim to minimise scarring, some degree of scar formation is natural as part of your body’s healing response. There are effective ways to manage scar tissue and improve the appearance of your scars over time.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Post-Operative Instructions

Proper post-operative care is the first step in minimising scar tissue. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your incisions. This may include keeping the area clean, applying prescribed ointments, and avoiding excessive movement that could strain the incision sites. Following these guidelines closely will help your scars heal properly and reduce the risk of complications.

Use Compression Garments

Wearing a compression garment as recommended by your surgeon helps reduce swelling and supports the healing tissue. These garments also apply gentle pressure to the incision areas, which can prevent the development of excessive scar tissue, known as hypertrophic or keloid scars.

Topical Treatments and Silicone Sheets

Silicone-based scar treatments, such as silicone gel or silicone sheets, can be used to improve the appearance of scars. These treatments help keep the scar hydrated, flatten raised scars, and reduce discolouration. Applying these products consistently, as advised by your surgeon, can lead to noticeablet improvements over time.

Sun Protection

Scars are highly sensitive to sunlight, which can cause them to darken and become more noticeable. For at least six months following surgery, avoid direct sun exposure on the scar areas. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use sunscreen with high SPF. Protecting your scars from UV rays will help them fade more naturally and blend with your skin tone.

Supplemental Scar Treatment Options

If scar tissue becomes raised or thick, your surgeon may recommend additional treatments. These may include steroid injections, laser therapy, or microneedling, to further minimise their appearance. These additional treatments can help soften scar tissue and reduce any noticeable texture or colour differences.

Patience with the Healing Process

Scarring is a gradual process, and it may take several months to a year for your scars to fully mature. Over time, scars will typically fade and become less noticeable, particularly if you follow a dedicated scar management routine.

Managing scar tissue after gynecomastia surgery requires attention to detail and consistent effort, but with proper care, your scars can become a minimal part of your overall result.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Gynecomastia Surgery in Singapore

There is no strict upper age limit for gynecomastia surgery. However, it is generally recommended for individuals who have fully developed their chest. Typically, men 18 years and older are considered good candidates, as their bodies have reached full development. But, older men in good health may also undergo the procedure, provided there are no underlying medical conditions that could affect recovery. The key factor is that the candidate is in good overall health and has realistic expectations about the results.

No, you do not lose your nipples after gynecomastia surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully removes excess breast tissue and fat while preserving the nipple-areola complex. In some cases, the position of the nipples may be adjusted for a more natural appearance, but the nipples themselves remain intact. Your surgeon should take precautions to ensure the blood supply to the nipples is maintained, which is essential for proper healing and appearance.

Yes, gynecomastia surgery is considered permanent. This is because the excess glandular tissue and fat causing the condition are removed. However, certain factors, such as significant weight gain, use of certain medications, or hormonal imbalances, can cause a recurrence of gynecomastia. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing any underlying medical conditions can help preserve the results of the surgery long-term

Pain levels after gynecomastia surgery vary from person to person, but most patients report only mild to moderate discomfort. Pain is typically well-managed with prescribed pain medications. Though, you may experience some soreness, tightness, and swelling in the chest area for a few days following the procedure. These sensations generally subside within a week or two. Most patients find the discomfort manageable and are able to return to normal activities relatively quickly.

In most cases, the skin will naturally tighten after gynecomastia surgery as it adjusts to the new contours of the chest. The degree of skin tightening depends on factors such as skin elasticity, age, and the amount of tissue removed. Younger patients with good skin elasticity often see better results in terms of skin tightening. If there is significant excess skin, your surgeon may perform additional procedures to remove it for a smoother, more sculpted chest appearance.