A cosmetic procedure called gynecomastia surgery, sometimes referred to as male breast reduction surgery, aims to remove excess breast tissue in men. The condition is primarily caused by an excess of estrogen, or female sex hormone, being secreted. Hormonal imbalance is not the only condition that can occur; genetic transmission can also result in gynecomastia and excessive weight gain.

Male breasts that sag due to gynecomastia diminish a person's masculine appeal and may even cause mental distress. Surgery is the only effective treatment for gynecomastia, regardless of the underlying cause.

Dr. Sandhya Balasubramanyan, the best cosmetic surgeon in Bangalore, has treated many patients with gynecomastia. Based on her valuable experience, she has shared her knowledge with us on this blog. This blog will help readers understand the difference between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, what one should expect while recovering from the surgery and the time it will take to recover from the surgery. Continue reading to learn.

What is the Most Common Age for Gynecomastia Development?

In as many as 70% of males, early to mid-puberty hormonal changes can result in excessive male breast growth. Teenagers who experience gynecomastia usually recover on their own.

Certain boys who are overweight and have acute tenderness may develop gynecomastia. It can lead to distress and lower self-esteem. Sometimes this can be helped by a short course of medication. The drugs stop the body from making too much estrogen, which can cause men's breasts to decrease in size.

Up to 65% of older men may also experience gynecomastia. For middle-aged and older men who use drugs or medications that stimulate the growth of male breast tissue, treatment is generally not recommended.

Gynecomastia Vs. Pseudogynecomastia

The key distinction between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia is found in what causes the chest enlargement. Gynecomastia involves the growth of real breast tissue, whereas pseudo-gynecomastia results from an increase in breast size due to an excess accumulation of fat tissue.

How Can One Detect Pseudogynecomastia?

One can perform a self-breast examination to detect gynecomastia. Search for a soft, absorbent tissue pad and apply pressure around the areola. That is tissue found in glands or breasts. If one cannot feel this firm yet flexible disc, one may experience what is known as pseudo-gynecomastia or false gyno.

In pseudogynecomastia, the chest bears an excessive amount of fat. This could give the impression of having feminine breasts. There are instances when diet and exercise can help the illness.

What To Expect When Recovering from Gynecomastia Surgery?

1. Feeling Tired: One might feel low on energy for a couple of months. Eat well, drink water, rest up, and don't push too hard too soon.
2. Swelling: The chest might be swollen and tender after the surgery. This is normal and will get better over time. One side might be puffier than the other, but that's okay unless there's a big difference. If it is, call the doctor. It takes about three months to see the final results.
3. Scars: The cuts will fade and become less visible, but it might take up to a year. Scars get better with time, so be patient.
4. Scar Tissue: Sometimes, one might notice lumpy spots in their chest after a while. That's just scar tissue forming under the skin. It's common with this surgery.
5. Emotional Rollercoaster: Feeling all kinds of emotions after surgery is normal. It might happen right away or even weeks later. Talk to people who'll listen and understand. 
6. Itching: The surgery area might get itchy as it heals. Don't scratch it, though. One can use a cream to help ease the itchiness after consulting with the doctor.
7. Sensitive Nipples: The nipples might feel super sensitive or even lose some feeling for a few months. But don't worry; that usually goes away as the body heals. One might feel sudden pains too, but it's just the nerves healing.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Gynecomastia Surgery?  

The extent of the operation, the patient's general health, and the post-operative care can all affect how long it takes to recover from a male breast reduction. After surgery, patients can usually return to work in 7 to 10 days. The following are the recovery processes on a weekly basis:

1. Right after the procedure

Patients may experience tightness, tenderness, or pain in their chests after surgery. It is typical for this discomfort to last one to two days. If needed, the patient can take the prescribed painkillers. Some claim to be numb or to have less feeling in certain places. If the surgeon recommends using a long-acting local anaesthetic, the numbness may last longer than three days. Some patients may experience nausea due to the anaesthetic used during the procedure. Patients may notice results immediately, but the chest area may appear swollen.  

2. A week following surgery for gynecomastia

Many people experience pain that subsides after a week, during which time their oedema and pain decrease. However, the majority of patients can go back to work. They should, however, limit their physical activity until the surgeon gives the all-clear.  

3. Three to four weeks following surgery for gynecomastia 

Some may receive permission in as little as two or three weeks to engage in strenuous activities. There are others who must wait for three to four weeks. An individual's immune system's reaction to the surgery determines this restriction. Stronger immune systems allow patients to recover quickly, while weaker immune systems require three to four weeks before they can even take a bath. Furthermore, the surgeons recommend wearing compression garments.

4. One to two months following surgery for gynecomastia 

The healing process typically takes one to one and a half months to complete. Furthermore, nearly all patients recover the ability to perform all forms of physical activity, including exercises involving the chest.  Patients are also allowed to sleep in any position. The swelling in the pecs may last a few more weeks before it gradually disappears.

Conclusion

By removing excess glandular or fatty tissue, gynecomastia surgery helps to create a more masculine, streamlined chest. Most importantly, there is no reason to be embarrassed to go out in public once one has that masculine, contoured chest. To get the best results from the surgery, it is very important to follow the proper recovery process following the surgery. One must be aware of the symptoms they may see after the surgery so that they do not panic. Also, they must discuss in detail with the doctor the time it will take to recover from the procedure.

One can book an appointment with Dr. Sandhya Balasubramanyan, the best plastic surgeon in Hyderabad, to learn more about a safe and effective recovery following gynecomastia surgery.  The skilled plastic surgeon provides a range of surgical treatments, including liposuction, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and mommy makeovers. If someone wants the best results possible, they can consult her because the doctor makes a complete diagnosis before recommending a course of treatment.