Gynecomastia

The impact of gynecomastia goes far beyond physical appearance, and for many men can lead to significant psychological distress, low self-esteem and social withdrawal. Professional, personalized management of gynecomastia is therefore essential for the patient’s overall well-being.

Why do some men have breasts?

Causes and risk factors

Gynecomastia can result from a variety of causes, including hormonal changes, certain diseases and medications. Fluctuations in sex hormones, particularly estrogen and androgen, can upset the normal balance of the mammary gland, leading to hypertrophy (overdevelopment).

Importance of age

Age plays a crucial role in the onset of gynecomastia. In infants, it may be due to maternal hormones, while in adolescents, it may be linked to pubertal hormonal changes. In older men, a reduction in androgen hormones may also be the cause. Careful medical assessment is often required to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

The different forms of gynecomastia

Gynecomastia manifests itself in different forms, each with its own characteristics and clinical implications.

Areola turgidity
This minimal form of breast hypertrophy is characterized by slight development of the mammary gland, without excess fat. The main symptom is swelling of the nipple. Frequently observed in athletes, it is also common in adolescents.

Glandular gynecomastia
The result of excessive development of the mammary gland. Clinically, the breast is firm to the touch and can sometimes be painful.

Fatty gynecomastia or adipomastia
This form is common in men who are overweight or have undergone significant weight loss. It is characterized by a soft, painless breast, because the mammary gland has not developed. Adipomastia is mainly due to excess fat.

Mixed gynecomastia
This is the most common form of male breast enlargement. It combines both an excess of mammary gland and fat around the breast.

Possible treatments for gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the underlying cause and shape of the condition.

Hormonal treatment: In some cases, gynecomastia is the result of hormonal imbalance. A medical approach, through hormonal treatment, may then be sufficient to reduce breast hypertrophy. This method is non-invasive and can offer an alternative to surgery, especially when the hormonal imbalance is temporary.

Plastic surgery: When gynecomastia is significant, or when other treatments have proved ineffective, plastic surgery becomes a preferred option. Two main surgical techniques are used:

• 
  Lipoaspiration
  indicated when gynecomastia is predominantly fatty. A fine cannula is inserted to aspirate excess fat, leaving a minimal scar.
• Glandular resection: this technique is preferred for treating glandular gynecomastia. It involves surgical removal of the enlarged mammary gland. The scar, although more visible, is generally well concealed.

These procedures are performed under general anaesthetic and last between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of the operation.

It is essential to consult a plastic surgeon to determine the best therapeutic approach for each individual patient.

After-effects of gynecomastia

Post-operative recovery and care

After the procedure, patients may experience sensations similar to aches and pains in the case of liposuction alone, while removal of the mammary gland may result in very moderate pain. Conventional analgesics are generally sufficient to manage pain.

You can return home the same day. Our medical team will offer you various post-operative follow-up appointments to ensure that your surgery is progressing smoothly.

Healing and follow-up

Bruising and swelling may occur after the operation, which is completely normal. These symptoms gradually subside in the days following surgery. Wearing a light dressing or compression vest may be necessary to promote skin retraction and healing. Scar quality depends on the form of gynecomastia and the patient’s own healing capacity.

The post-operative recovery period varies according to the procedure. Most patients can resume their normal activities after one week. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions.

What results can we expect?

Gynecomastia surgery offers excellent, long-lasting and permanent results. Volumes disappear, leaving a well-defined torso and skin stretched tight against the pectoral muscle. It is extremely rare for a second gynecomastia to develop, even if the gland has not been removed.

The aesthetic results, combined with improved confidence and psychological well-being, make this surgery a popular option for those seeking to correct gynecomastia. For further information or to discuss your specific gynecomastia needs, our specialized medical team is at your disposal.

Fees for gynecomastia surgery

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