Gynecomastia Surgery with Liposuction: Patient-Friendly Guide

Overview of the Procedure

What is it?

  • A surgical procedure to reduce male breast enlargement.

  • Removes excess fat and glandular tissue to create a flatter, more masculine chest.

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Is it surgical, non-surgical, or minimally invasive?

  • A surgical treatment.

  • Combines liposuction (for fat) and excision (for glandular tissue).

Is it surgical, non-surgical, or minimally invasive?

  • A surgical treatment.

  • Combines liposuction (for fat) and excision (for glandular tissue).

Are there alternatives?

  • Hormonal therapy or weight loss may help mild cases.

  • Cool Sculpting may reduce fat, but not glandular tissue.

  • Surgery gives the most reliable, lasting results.

Benefits of the Procedure

  • Corrects enlarged male breasts (due to hormones, weight gain, medication, or genetics).

  • Boosts self-confidence and body image.

  • Reduces physical discomfort and improves mobility.

  • Allows better fit in clothes and more freedom in physical activities.

  • High patient satisfaction when paired with stable weight and healthy habits.

Preparation Before the Procedure

Medical Preparation

  • Blood tests and full medical checkup.

  • Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery.

  • Avoid blood-thinners like aspirin or ibuprofen.

  • May need to fast before surgery, if general anesthesia is used.

Lifestyle Preparation

  • Follow a balanced diet and stay hydrated.

  • Maintain regular exercise (avoid overexertion).

  • Avoid alcohol and excess caffeine.

Step-by-Step Description of the Procedure

How It’s Performed

  • Anesthesia

    • Local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia.

  • Liposuction

    • Small incisions are made.

    • A cannula is inserted to suction out fat.

  • Excision (if needed)

    • Glandular tissue or excess skin is removed via an incision near the areola.

  • Closure

    • Incisions are sutured.

    • A compression garment is applied.

Procedure Duration

  • Around 1 to 2 hours.

Risks and Potential Complications

Common Side Effects

  • Swelling, bruising, mild pain.

  • Temporary numbness or changes in nipple sensation.

Possible Complications

  • Infection or bleeding.

  • Seroma (fluid buildup).

  • Uneven results or minor asymmetry.

  • Mild scarring (usually fades over time).

Who is at higher risk?

  • Smokers.

  • People with diabetes, obesity, or poor wound healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Timeline

  • Go home the same day of surgery.

  • Bruising and swelling peak in 3–5 days, then fade.

  • Return to light activity in 1 week.

  • Resume normal activities in 4–6 weeks.

Managing Pain

  • Mild pain, treated with prescribed painkillers.

  • Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.

Aftercare

  • Wear a compression garment for several weeks.

  • Avoid heavy lifting or workouts for at least 4–6 weeks.

  • Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Long-Term Outcomes and Lifestyle Considerations

How Long Do Results Last?

  • Results are permanent with a stable weight.

  • Healthy eating and regular workouts help maintain results.

  • Avoid steroids, hormones, or medications linked to gynecomastia.

Maintenance

  • No special treatments needed.

  • Weight gain or hormone imbalance can cause recurrence in rare cases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Scars are small and usually hidden near the areola. They fade over time.

Unlikely, but weight gain or hormones can cause recurrence.

Most patients return to non-strenuous jobs within 1 week.

Usually after 2 weeks, once incisions have healed.

Additional Patient Resources

Additional Patient Resources

This guide is for educational purposes only. Always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon for a personalized consultation and treatment plan.