Overview
Gynecomastia is defined as abnormal development of the mammary gland in men. It can be unilateral or bilateral and may or may not be accompanied by excess fat.v
A general distinction is made between:
- glandular gynecomastia (excess glandular tissue)
- adipomastia (predominantly fatty tissue)
- mixed forms (the most common)
This condition can develop during adolescence or adulthood and may cause cosmetic concerns, self-consciousness about clothing, or psychological distress.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho offers personalized care following a comprehensive clinical evaluation. In some cases, a preliminary hormonal or medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out any underlying causes.
Explanation of the technique
Surgical correction of gynecomastia aims to reduce breast volume in men and restore a flatter, more masculine appearance to the chest.
Gynecomastia may be caused by an enlargement of the mammary gland, localized excess fat, or a combination of both. The surgical approach therefore depends on the nature of the tissue present and the extent of the volume to be corrected.
The goal of the procedure is to improve the contour of the chest while maintaining a natural appearance that is in proportion to the patient’s body type.
Several techniques can be used on their own or in combination.
Thoracic liposuction
When the increase in chest size is primarily due to excess fat, targeted liposuction may be performed.
Liposuction involves suctioning out fat cells using thin cannulas inserted under the skin, which helps to reshape the contours of the chest.
In particular, this technique allows you to:
- to narrow the chest
- to improve the contours of the male chest
- to treat forms of adipomastia (excess fat without glandular enlargement)
- to smooth the transition between the chest and the surrounding areas
Liposuction also has the advantage of promoting gradual skin retraction, which helps improve the appearance of the chest after the procedure.
Glandular excision
In true cases of gynecomastia, there is enlargement of the mammary gland beneath the areola. In such cases, liposuction alone does not produce satisfactory results.
Surgical removal of the mammary gland is then necessary. This procedure involves removing the glandular tissue responsible for the subareolar elevation.
The procedure is performed through an incision that is usually inconspicuous and located at the lower edge of the areola, ensuring that the scar is barely visible once healed.
This technique allows:
- to remove the glandular core responsible for the bulk
- to prevent the formation of a raised area under the areola
- to achieve a flatter, more masculine chest
Combined techniques
In most cases, gynecomastia correction involves a combination of techniques.
It is common to associate:
- liposuction to reduce fat and improve body contours
- a lumpectomy to remove the breast tissue responsible for the lump
This combined approach yields a more comprehensive and natural-looking result by addressing all the structures responsible for increasing volume.
The surgical approach is always tailored to each patient, based on their anatomy, the nature of the tissue, and the severity of the gynecomastia.
Overview of the procedure
Treatment for gynecomastia begins with a specialized consultation to assess the cause of the enlarged breasts and determine whether surgical treatment is appropriate.
During this consultation, a clinical examination of the chest is performed to assess the chest’s morphology and distinguish between true gynecomastia—caused by enlargement of the mammary gland—and adipomastia, which results from fat accumulation in the chest area. If necessary, additional tests may be ordered to identify a medical cause.
This consultation also provides an opportunity to discuss your expectations and define the goals of the procedure. You will receive detailed medical information, and a personalized quote will be prepared, in accordance with the legally required cooling-off period.
Medical photographs may be taken to aid in preoperative analysis and to monitor results.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is ordered and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled.
Gynecomastia surgery is performed in a clinic, usually under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation may be used in some cases. The procedure involves removing excess breast tissue and, if necessary, combining it with liposuction to improve the contour of the chest.
The procedure typically lasts between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the extent of the correction. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day, or as an inpatient procedure.
BEFORE / AFTER
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
Postoperative symptoms are generally well tolerated. In the first few days following the procedure, it is common to experience:
- chest edema
- bruises
- a feeling of tension
- temporary breast tenderness
A compression garment is prescribed for several weeks to optimize skin retraction and promote a smooth, even result.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- light activities: after a few days
- desk job: generally after 5 to 10 days
- Sports activities: usually after 4 to 6 weeks
Regular post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and the progress of the results.
Gynecomastia surgery helps achieve a flatter, more masculine chest, with an improved chest contour. The expected benefits include:
- reduction in breast size
- improvement in the shape of the chest
- better definition of the chest
- improved comfort
- improved well-being
The results become more apparent over the months following the procedure, as swelling subsides and the skin tightens.
In certain situations, particularly in cases of significant skin laxity, additional procedures may be considered to optimize the results.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Gynecomastia
In adolescents, some forms of the condition may resolve on their own. In adults, correction is most often achieved through surgery when symptoms persist.
Scars are generally inconspicuous, particularly around the areola. Their visibility also depends on how well the individual heals.
Recurrence is rare when the gland is properly removed and weight remains stable. However, certain specific hormonal conditions can influence the outcome.
In certain cases of documented true gynecomastia, partial coverage may be available depending on current medical criteria.
It is generally possible to resume sports activities after about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how you recover and your post-operative recommendations.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
