Breast development in men, also known as gynecomastia , is not uncommon and develops during puberty or at a later age caused by the use of hormones such as anabolic steroids . Breast tissue can be surgically removed through a scar around the nipple, sometimes using liposuction.
A small amount of breast tissue behind the nipple is normal in men. If congenitally more breast tissue is constructed than normal, this may further develop during puberty and become visible. ( Young) men are ashamed of this and it can also be painful . Sometimes the breast tissue develops on one side only.
Breast development in (young) men can be an indication of excessive hormone production somewhere in the body but this is exceptional. However, if this is the case than it is imperative to recognized this prior to treatment. A consultation with an internist or pediatrician can provide clarity. The use of anabolic steroids has to be refrained from.
The surgery takes place in the operating room under general anesthesia and takes one hour. The nipple is lifted through an incision around the areola of the nipple, the excess breast tissue is separated from the subcutaneous fat and the pectoralis major (large muscle of the upper chest wall) and removed. In men with overweight a part of the breast consists of fatty tissue. This will be corrected by means of liposuction/liposculpture during or after surgery.
The skin is generally elastic enough to spring back, so only a limited amount of skin needs to be removed. In the cavity that is now created a drain tube will be left to avoid bruises.
When there is no more blood showing in the drain hose, it is pulled out and you can go home. Sometimes it is wise to stay in hospital for one night, so the drain can be removed the next morning. Sutures will be removed after 1 and 2 weeks. The scar is located around the nipple / areola and is hardly visible, only when looking at a close distance.
The complication of bruises is already mentioned above and is a normal effect of the procedure. Unevenness due to the lag of glandular tissue in the breast and / or the removal of too much subcutaneous fat is another complication . Disorder of blood circulation in the nipples actually never occurs.
Dr. Erik J.F. Timmenga
| Comments from family and friends | Go to the page |
| Smoking and complications | Read the article |
| Scars | Read the article |
| Photos before and after surgery | See the album |
