Gynecomastia Surgery: Does the Problem Recur After?

Getting rid of man boobs is a challenge, especially knowing that gynecomastia recurrence after surgery can be possible. Hence, the procedure is regarded a last resort, even by doctors. Going under the knife is not something one should take lightly, after all.

At the Dr Daood Clinic in Sydney, we lay out the facts, from consultation to man-boob surgery, right up to gynecomastia surgery recovery. This way, you can manage your expectations and make informed decisions. And while it is possible to recur even after surgery, know what can you do to prevent it from happening. Read on!

Defining the problem

First, let’s define the condition and how it develops. Gynecomastia, or man boobs, is a condition where male breast tissue increases in size due to an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone.  Normally, males produce low quantities of estrogen in their bodies, however, the female hormone overpowers the amount of testosterone in the system resulting in breast enlargement. It can affect boys in their infancy and puberty, but it can also affect male adults.

There are several reasons that could lead to gynecomastia. It could be a side effect of medications, drug abuse, or certain medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, cirrhosis and chronic kidney failure. Any doctor would look into these reasons first before even considering gynecomastia surgery because most of these can be managed by other means.

True Gynecomastia and Pseudogynecomastia

It is also important to identify if what you have is the real deal or if it is pseudogynecomastia. We have defined earlier what gynecomastia is, but there is also such a thing as false man boobs. They may look just as bad, but these are not made of actual breast tissue, but fat.

Most guys are not aware of the difference between the two, and that one of these can actually be managed with regular exercise and diet.

Pseudogynecomastia results when a guy gains excess weight that aside from the fats burgeoning from the trunk, it also proliferates in the breasts. As a result, some develop female breasts, which can be embarrassing. The good news about this type of gynecomastia is that it is easier to treat. A strict diet and regular exercise can help one get rid of excess fats and tone up the chest area.

Surgery may also be done in this case, most especially in instances where the skin has sagged dramatically due to the extent of stretching it experienced.

It is best to get a consultation to point out the problem exactly. Medical tests and examinations would have to be done to accurately point out if it is indeed the real deal or pseudogynecomastia.

Braving the knife

Surgery is considered to be among the top three treatment of gynecomastia, with the other two being oral and topical solutions. Since it is an invasive treatment, several factors have to be taken into consideration to ensure that the procedure proceeds safely and successfully.

There are several approaches used for this procedure, mainly revolving around removal of the breast tissue. Some approaches are more invasive as it uses incisions around the areola or underneath the breast to excise the breast tissues, most especially in severe cases. A less invasive treatment also referred to as “scar less” surgery involves the use of remote tiny incisions where a liposuction machine is inserted to remove fats. These patients undergo total chest reshaping along with liposuction surgery.

Recurrence after Gynecomastia surgery

The concern that most patients have is if the problem returns after surgery. After all that risk, money, and maybe some amount of discomfort it is only right to ask these questions.

Once the firm breast tissue is removed, it will not generally return. However, there are other factors that can lead to its recurrence. If the condition arose from the use of medications, anabolic steroids, or hormones, these could contribute to a recurrence of the condition. Post-operative weight gain may also result in a recurrence.

But what if the fats have been suctioned off?

The thing with liposuction is that a surgeon does not simply suction off all the fats in the chest just so it could be as flat as a pavement. A surgeon, a good one at least, not only considers the aesthetic value but he also does what is safe and appropriate. Not all the fat tissues are removed during a liposuction surgery because this will result in a “caved in” appearance. And yes, what was removed will not grow back. However, the fat cells that remain may balloon in size if you don’t watch your weight, and could eventually look like another man boob.

The truth of the matter

Recurrence of gynecomastia is actually quite rare for men with a stable problem. But it is also true that surgery cannot prevent new growth. It is the patient who rushes into surgery without first addressing the underlying problem that puts him at risk of recurrence. Surgery also doesn’t guarantee the prevention of fat build up in the chest area, and this can be a problem especially among adult men who tend to gain weight in these places. If it does recur, it may not be to the same extent as it was before surgery.

Gynecomastia surgery is a sure solution, but you also have to meet halfway to avoid exposing yourself to risk factors that can lead to a recurrence.

If you want to talk to a surgeon and be properly guided with your gynecomastia surgery concerns, talk to us at the Dr Daood Clinic. Let’s get straight to your aesthetic problems, and look for the right solution. Visit us here and book your consultation now.