Stanley Loo Plastic SurgeonStanley Loo Plastic SurgeonGynaecomastia is enlargement of male breast tissue.
It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may result from hormonal changes, medications, metabolic conditions or other causes.
For some men, the enlargement resolves naturally. For others, it persists and can become a source of physical or emotional concern.
The current practice recommends assessment for possible underlying causes before surgical treatment.
What Causes Gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia can have a number of possible causes.
These may include:
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Metabolic conditions
Changes during adolescence
Other medical factors
In some patients, no specific cause is identified.
A proper medical assessment is therefore important before deciding on surgery.
Gynaecomastia Auckland – Male Breast Reduction
Gynaecomastia is enlargement of male breast tissue.
It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may result from hormonal changes, medications, metabolic conditions or other causes.
For some men, the enlargement resolves naturally. For others, it persists and can become a source of physical or emotional concern.
The current practice recommends assessment for possible underlying causes before surgical treatment.
What Causes Gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia can have a number of possible causes.
These may include:
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Metabolic conditions
Changes during adolescence
Other medical factors
In some patients, no specific cause is identified.
A proper medical assessment is therefore important before deciding on surgery.
When Is Surgery Considered?
Persistent gynaecomastia may be treated surgically when enlargement remains despite appropriate assessment.
The surgical technique depends on the severity and composition of the enlargement.
The current practice describes liposuction for some mild-to-moderate cases and tissue and/or skin excision for more significant cases.
Persistent gynaecomastia may be treated surgically when enlargement remains despite appropriate assessment.
The surgical technique depends on the severity and composition of the enlargement.
The current practice describes liposuction for some mild-to-moderate cases and tissue and/or skin excision for more significant cases.
Treatment of gynaecomastia involves treatment of the underlying metabolic cause (if found) of the condition to prevent the reoccurrence of gynaecomastia and treatment of the enlarged breasts.
Gynaecomastia Surgery
The surgical approach depends on the severity and composition of the enlarged breast. Surgery is the recommended treatment for persistent gynaecomastia. The type of procedure performed is dependent on the severity of the condition. For those patients who have mild to moderate gynaecomastia liposuction alone may be sufficient. For patients who have moderate to severe gynaecomastia, tissue or skin excision may be required in addition to liposuction to correct the condition. The surgical treatment can only be made once a full assessment has been made in a consultation.
Liposuction for Gynaecomastia
If the enlargement is primarily due to excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be sufficient.
This can reduce chest volume and improve contour through relatively small access points.
However, liposuction alone may not address firm glandular tissue or significant loose skin.
Tissue Removal
When there is significant glandular tissue or skin excess, surgical excision may be required.
The appropriate combination of liposuction and excision is determined after physical examination.
Surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic as a day case at Kakariki Hospital, Greenlane and Ormiston Hospital, Botany or Auckland and patients are advised to wear a pressure garment for 6 weeks after the procedure to obtain the optimal results.
If you would like to discuss this further an appointment can be made with Mr Loo at Auckland Plastic Surgery Group, Unit 6 / 31 Highbrook Drive, Highbrook, Auckland 2013 Ph (09) 220 2580
Recovery
A pressure garment is recommended by the current practice for approximately six weeks following surgery.
Swelling and bruising are expected.
The chest contour continues to change as the tissues heal.
Risks and Considerations
Potential complications include bleeding, infection, contour irregularity, asymmetry, changes in sensation, scarring and the possibility of recurrent or residual tissue.
The extent of scarring depends on the technique required.
Post operative care for gynaecomastia surgery
FAQs
What causes gynaecomastia?
There are several possible causes and sometimes no single cause is identified.
Can gynaecomastia be caused by medication?
Yes. Certain medications can contribute, which is why assessment of possible underlying causes is important
Can liposuction treat gynaecomastia?
It may be suitable for selected patients, particularly where excess fat contributes to enlargement.
Will skin removal be necessary?
It depends on the amount of skin excess and severity.
How long do I need to wear a compression garment?
The current practice recommends approximately six weeks.
Will gynaecomastia surgery leave scars?
Scarring depends on the technique used. Liposuction typically requires smaller access incisions, while tissue or skin removal requires larger incisions.
Can gynaecomastia come back?
If an underlying cause remains untreated, recurrence or further enlargement may be possible. This is why assessment before surgery is important.
Book a Gynaecomastia Consultation
If enlarged male breasts are persistent or causing concern, a specialist assessment can determine the likely cause and whether surgery may be appropriate.
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