My goal is to help men who feel embarrassed due to gynecomastia, unable to even wear a T-shirt they like, to comfortably walk around in the slimness they desire and regain their confidence. Gynecomastia (ginecomastia) is a medical term that has passed from Greek to the present day. It means breasts similar to women's. This translation is not used much due to its discomfort. However, gynecomastia is quite common. It affects almost 40% of men.
Gynecomastia can be medication-related (such as steroids, excessive marijuana or alcohol use). Medications like Propecia (prescribed for hair loss) can also cause gynecomastia. It is advisable to discontinue the use of these substances before the surgery.
Is there a minimum age requirement for gynecomastia surgery?
There is no minimum age requirement for gynecomastia, but many surgeons prefer to wait until adolescence (around 18-20 years old) is completely finished.
There is no maximum age limit for gynecomastia, but patients with any medical condition that could jeopardize their health during surgery should inform their plastic surgeons.
What medical conditions may prevent gynecomastia surgery?
Conditions that prevent this surgery are very rare, but there are some serious medical conditions that need to be taken into account. Serious heart disease, malignant hyperthermia, or serious bleeding disorders are reasons to be cautious.
Will there be any scars after the surgery?
The surgery is usually performed by entering through the dark-colored part of the breast (areola) and removing the breast tissue, and there is generally no scar left. Dr. Gürcan Aslan uses his designed surgical method, which involves an incision made from the areola in gynecomastia surgery.
If liposuction is used to remove fat tissue from the breast in this surgery, it is a procedure that does not leave a scar. Regardless of which technique the surgeon uses, there may be more or less scarring afterward. However, within 6 months to a year, it is usually difficult to distinguish the scars from normal skin.
I learned that there are two types called wet and ultrasonic liposuction. Is one better than the other?
The wet technique is the gold standard for liposuction. Essentially, the surgeon inflates the tissue with a large amount of sterile liquid, along with a vasoconstrictive agent (constricts blood vessels) like epinephrine, to reduce bleeding. Melted fat and fluid are then removed with liposuction. Ultrasonic liposuction uses sound waves to melt fat. Dr. Gürcan Aslan prefers the wet method as the fat removal technique.
I have large saggy breasts. Will I have a lot of scars?
Especially in young patients with good skin elasticity, it may not be necessary to remove this skin. Therefore, there may not be many scars since the skin is not cut and thrown away, and the excess will recover on its own.
Starting 10 days before the surgery, do not take products containing aspirin. Herbal medicines such as St. John's Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and excessive vitamin E, among others, can cause excessive bleeding. It is best to stop these medications/vitamins/supplements for 2 weeks after the procedure.
Recovery time is 3 to 7 days. Sometimes, drains may be used. The total recovery time can vary from patient to patient. It can be assumed that most patients have fully recovered and achieved their final appearance within 3-6 months after the surgery. For the first 2 to 3 weeks after the surgery, especially strenuous activities, lifting weights, or intense upper-body workouts at the gym should be restricted. In addition, it is recommended that the patient wears compression garments for 4 weeks after the surgery.
Patients typically experience moderate discomfort during the first 24 hours. After that, most patients experience minimal discomfort. Severe pain is generally not observed. Regardless of the level of pain experienced by the patient after the surgery, painkillers are administered during and after the surgery.
Is the use of drains mandatory?
Drains are not always necessary for minor cases of gynecomastia. However, in some cases, the use of drains can prevent complications. It's important to note that the drainage process is simple and not painful. It effectively removes fluids that accumulate within the body and cause swelling.
When can I return to work?
Generally, patients can return to work within 3 to 7 days after the surgery, depending on the nature of their work. If your job does not involve strenuous physical activity and is office-based, you may be able to return to work sooner. If your job requires physical activity, it is recommended to wait at least 10 to 14 days or until you feel ready. Listen to your body! It will tell you when you are ready to resume normal activities.
Are there any post-operative complications I should be aware of?
Excessive fluid accumulation beneath the skin can occur. Additionally, if pain persists and does not subside with painkillers 24-48 hours after the surgery, it may indicate a problem. This could potentially be a hematoma, which is the accumulation of blood in the operated area. In such cases, it is important to contact your doctor immediately.
What are the main causes of gynecomastia (male breast enlargement)?
Excessive alcohol consumption and/or the use of certain drugs and substances can be causes of gynecomastia. Hormonal changes and genetic conditions can also contribute to male breast enlargement.
How long does male breast reduction surgery take?
It typically takes about 1 hour.
What are the side effects?
Temporary numbness, a sensation of burning, swelling, and bruising can occur.
You can return to work within 3-7 days after the surgery. More strenuous activities can be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks. Swelling and bruising may persist for 1 to 2 months.
What are the risks?
Infection, fluid accumulation, skin damage, asymmetry, scarring (usually limited to the brownish tip of the breast). In appropriate patients with predominantly fatty breast enlargement, breast reduction can be achieved through liposuction without leaving a scar.
Am I an ideal candidate for gynecomastia surgery?
If you are a man with enlarged breasts, and your breasts resemble those of a woman, you may be considered an ideal candidate for gynecomastia surgery. Typically, suitable candidates for male breast reduction surgery include:
• If you are not satisfied with the appearance and size of your breasts, and it causes you physical discomfort.
• If you have good skin elasticity.
• If you cannot reduce the size of your breasts through diet and exercise.
Additionally, it's important to note that substances like marijuana, steroids, and alcohol can contribute to male breast enlargement. In addition to the above criteria, a potential candidate for male breast reduction should be physically and psychologically healthy, and be aware of the risks and side effects associated with the procedure.