Gynecomastia
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the presence of excessive glandular and/or fatty tissue on the chest wall of a male. It can happen only on one side or it can be present on both sides. It is fairly common in the male population and it can range from mild to severe.
It is normal to have some degree of increased tissue at certain times during a male’s life: as a newborn, during puberty, and in old age. In many cases, gynecomastia will go away on its own.
While gynecomastia is not life-threatening, the presence of excessive tissue can be a source of physical pain, can interrupt activities of daily living, and can cause psychosocial distress. A thorough evaluation is the key to start exploring treatment options for this condition.
What causes gynecomastia?
Causes of gynecomastia very. These can include:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Marijuana/cannabis use
- Steroid use
- Obesity
Evaluation of gynecomastia
The 1st step is to rule out any underlying medical issues. This includes being evaluated by an endocrinologist. This doctor will look for problems specifically related to hormones. If a problem is identified, it will be addressed by the endocrinologist.
Steroid use and marijuana/ cannabis use are notorious for causing gynecomastia. In these cases, immediate cessation is required before any further treatment options will be explored.
Obesity can be addressed through diet and exercise. However sometimes excessive tissue can still remain despite weight loss.
Surgical Treatment Options
When nonsurgical interventions do not correct the problem, surgical treatment can be an option. Your doctor will determine which surgical treatment will be best for your specific case.
Surgery can include liposuction, direct excision of excess tissue, or a combination of the two.
Surgical Course
Before surgery, you will be asked to purchase a compression shirt that you will where directly after surgery (see Gynecomastia Surgery Supplies). Bring this with you the day of surgery, you will wear it home. Most patients go home the same day of surgery. Occasionally a patient will need to spend the night for pain control and/or nausea from anesthesia.
You will have bandaging in place under the compression shirt. Leave the bandaging in place for the 1st week after surgery.
After surgery, expect there will be localized bruising and pain. Most patients only require ibuprofen (Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain. However a prescription pain medication can be utilized if necessary.
For the 1st week after surgery:
- Activity is limited to light, daily living (walking, dressing, etc.).
- Sponge baths only. Leave all bandaging in place.
- No lifting over 5 lb.
- No backpacks. If you choose to go to school, you will need to use a rolling backpack.
- No working out.
1 week postop appointment: We will remove the bandaging and make sure you are healing well. You can then start showering and washing the wounds daily. After that 1st week, you may start to gradually build your activity level.
1 month postop appointment: One last recheck and then you are released to full activity.
If you notice increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection, please do not hesitate to call the office for any questions or concerns: 865-824-4939.
Gynecomastia Surgery Supplies
- Gynecomastia compression vest with front zipper (available on Amazon)
- Over the counter antibiotic ointment (bacitracin)
