An excessive enlargement of the male breast that may require medication or surgery
Gynaecomastia Brisbane
Gynaecomastia is an excessive enlargement of the male breast tissue. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and can occur in either the male teen or adult years. This condition is frequently caused by a slight imbalance in the hormones, oestrogen and testosterone. Generally, gynaecomastia is not a serious problem, but it can sometimes cause pain and self-consciousness. It can go away by itself but it generally requires medication and/or surgery to correct.
Some investigations and blood tests may be required before surgery to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for this procedure. Reducing and reshaping male breasts starts with the patient being in good health and relatively fit or active before the procedure. If you are considering treatment as part of a weight loss program, reaching an ideal weight before Gynaecomastia surgery ensures optimal results after the procedure. Being in shape before the procedure ensures the best possible results and a quicker recovery period. It’s also helpful to quit smoking prior to your procedure as this can affect the healing process.
A male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) procedure with Dr Perron is performed under general anaesthetic in one of our registered Hospital facilities. The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours to complete. Most patients will go home the same day, sometimes with a drain, which will be removed a few days later. To remove the excess breast tissue, a small incision is made around the nipple. If there is also excess fat in the area, it can be removed using Liposuction (Suction Assisted Lipectomy) (Suction Assisted Lipectomy). Once the incisions are closed up, a dressing will be applied, which needs to be kept clean and in place until your first follow-up appointment with our resident surgeon Dr Justin Perron.
Recovering from gynaecomastia surgery will take several weeks. Some pain is common but it can be managed with pain medication and will subside within a week. It usually takes a few weeks before patients can return to work, especially if their job is physically demanding. Any strenuous exercise and heavy lifting will need to be avoided for several months. On the other hand, low impact exercise such as walking is actually encouraged after a day or two. By increasing blood flow, it will help prevent lung complications and DVTs. A compression garment will also need to be worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and prevent complications.
As with any operative procedure, there are risks involved. The most common complications are minor bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, and some pain. The specific risks associated with gynaecomastia surgery include:
Dr Perron will take you through all of the potential risks and complications during your consultation so that you know what to expect.
Each patient has different anatomy and specific expectations. Discuss your particular circumstances with Dr.Perron before deciding what is best for you.
If at any point during your recovery you experience excessive pain, bleeding or drainage, it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Please be advised that all procedures carry risks, therefore, we encourage patients to consult with their regular GP and Qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon before considering surgery. Find more information here.
The average cost of a male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) ranges from $4,500 to $6,000, but a final cost can only be determined once the specific needs of the patient have been determined. Hospital, surgeon and anaesthetist fees also need to be taken into account. Medicare will refund some of the costs of this procedure – speak to Dr Perron about the process of claiming a rebate during your consultation.
Figures listed are Surgeon’s fees only. Other fees might include: Anaesthetic fees, Hospital fees, Garment fee’s, Implant/ Prosthesis fee’s, Assist fee’s. All patients are different and require different treatment approaches, therefore, price ranges have been provided. However, an accurate individualised quote will be provided to the patient after an in depth consultation with Dr Perron is completed.
Male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) is not a weight loss surgery. Patients who are overweight or have lost weight and have excess fat in the chest area are better suited to Liposuction (Suction Assisted Lipectomy). Gynecomastia is a medical condition that is the result of excess breast tissue development. Men who have been diagnosed with this condition and have skin that is still relatively elastic could be good candidates for this procedure. Men with gynecomastia can still receive Liposuction (Suction Assisted Lipectomy) if there is excess fat present. However, it’s still important for patients to have achieved or be close to a healthy weight first.
You will be able to see the results of your male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) after your procedure. However, the final results will only be visible once all swelling has subsided, which is a gradual process. Most patients will see the end result after a three month period.
Gynecomastia surgery is a permanent procedure because the excess tissue has been removed completely. However, if the patient gains weight or hormonal fluctuations occur in the future, there is a chance that the chest area could change again. One of the best steps to take after this procedure is to lead a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and clean eating.
Since incisions will be required to complete this procedure, some scarring can be expected. However, Dr Perron will always place the incisions in the natural contours of the chest, which will decrease the visibility of scarring. Even though there will be some scarring, it will decrease over time, especially if you follow the necessary aftercare instructions during your recovery.
Wearing your compression garment and taking your pain medication as prescribed will increase your comfort levels. Ice packs can also be used to alleviate swelling if need be. To ensure your chest is protected when you sleep, it’s recommended that you sleep on your back in an elevated position during the first week. Even though you might not feel like moving much, light walking is definitely a good idea as this can help speed up recovery. Smoking is discouraged during the first week and it’s important not to expose your incisions to direct sunlight for at least six weeks as this can make scarring worse.
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Spring Hill QLD 4000