Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue in men, which can create a shape resembling women’s breasts. This condition can lead to embarrassment and low self-confidence. Gynecomastia can be classified into different degrees: mild, moderate, and severe.

The surgical approach varies depending on the degree of gynecomastia. The differences in severity can be attributed to physiological and genetic factors. Regardless of the degree, gynecomastia often causes emotional distress and may lead to depression, making cosmetic intervention a necessary solution to address the issue effectively.

How is Gynecomastia Surgery Done?

Hygienically, gynecomastia is not a serious issue that should cause fear. It primarily falls under the realm of cosmetic procedures, and in rare instances, the sudden onset of enlarged breasts in men may be linked to cancer-related concerns.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, which many patients prefer. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used instead. The procedure usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the individual case, and the results are immediate and long-lasting.

Video of Gynecomastia Surgery

A video explaining male breast reduction surgery in detail:

Causes of Gynecomastia  

• The use of certain medications.
• The natural hormonal changes that occur during puberty in male children.
• Disturbances in the secretion of thyroid glands or gonads.
• Genetic factors.
• Weight gain.

Gynecomastia Types  

The degree of enlarged breasts in men can vary significantly among individuals due to genetic and physiological differences. Excess weight can play a major role in the development of gynecomastia. The different types include:

• Seborrheic Gynecomastia: This type is common across all ages and typically treated with liposuction alone.
• Fibrous Gynecomastia: Characterized by tissue enlargement without excess fat in the chest. Treatment involves the surgical removal of glandular and fibrous tissue causing the condition.
• Mixed Gynecomastia: This type includes both fat and fibrous tissue. The recommended treatment involves liposuction to remove the fat, followed by excision of the glandular tissue through a small incision in the areola area surrounding the nipple.

These variations highlight the importance of a tailored approach to treatment based on the specific type and degree of enlarged breasts in men.

Who Can Undergo the Surgery?

Men who suffer from drooping or protruding chest conditions that cause embarrassment and low self-confidence may consider this procedure. It is important to have realistic expectations after the operation. Candidates for surgery should have stopped breast development by the age of 20 and must not have any incurable infectious diseases.

Who Can Not Undergo the procedure?

Men should avoid surgery if they have health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, severe hypertension, heart disease, or infectious diseases like immunodeficiency. Additionally, individuals who have not yet surpassed the growth phase of 20 should not seek this operation, as glandular secretions before this age can be fluctuating and irregular

The Doctor Who Performs Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia surgery, which involves male breast removal, is a cosmetic procedure that must be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon with ample experience in this type of operation.

No other medical specialists should perform this procedure. When selecting a hospital or medical clinic, choosing a reputable facility with a high standard of sterilization and a highly qualified surgeon is crucial. While the cost of the procedure may be high, it often reflects the clinic’s efficiency and credibility, so it is advisable not to negotiate the price excessively.

Anesthesia Type used during the Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery can be performed using either sedation or general anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient’s preference and specific medical condition.

For patients undergoing general anesthesia, it is essential to refrain from eating or drinking for six hours before the surgery. This precaution helps prevent discomfort in the stomach upon waking up after the procedure. Additionally, patients typically need to stay in the hospital for one night when general anesthesia is administered, and the cost of general anesthesia is generally higher than temporary anesthesia or sedation.

On the other hand, if the surgery is performed under temporary anesthesia, the aforementioned fasting and overnight hospital stay do not apply. This method is considered simpler in terms of procedures and is also less expensive.

Gynecomastia Surgery Steps

Male breast reduction surgery goes through three stages, like other operations:

Total Time: 2 hours

Before the procedure

Before undergoing Male breast reduction surgery, you must inform your doctor about any chronic illnesses or medications you are currently using and any previous surgeries you have had. Here are some important instructions to follow:
– Discuss the expected outcomes of the surgery with your doctor.
– Refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before the operation if you will receive general anesthesia.
– Inform your doctor of any medications you take regularly.
– Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least one week before the surgery.
– Consult your doctor before stopping any blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin.
Wear comfortable clothing on the day of the operation.

During the procedure

Anesthesia will be administered based on the agreed-upon method. The surgeon will also determine the type of gynecomastia and the specific areas of the chest that need treatment. The procedure typically lasts 2-3 hours. Excess fat will be suctioned out, any surplus fatty tissue will be removed, and the surgeon will then perform plastic surgical suturing to close the incisions.
To aid recovery, a tube may be inserted under the skin to drain any fluids that accumulate after the fat is removed. Following the surgery, the patient should wear a compression garment to help with fluid drainage and to achieve a tight, contoured chest shape.

After the procedure

Patients are advised to wear the compression garment for 45-60 days and to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the doctor, particularly during the initial recovery period. Key aftercare steps include:
– Rest completely and take prescribed medications, including painkillers and anti-inflammatories, to minimize swelling and bruising.
– Following a balanced diet with light foods while avoiding smoking and painkillers that may increase bleeding.
– Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids aids recovery and wound healing.
– Ensuring adequate sleep and keeping the head elevated at a 45-degree angle for the first three days to enhance comfort.
– Caring for the surgical wounds: your doctor will use specialized sutures that dissolve on their own within 10-14 days, after which the stitches will begin to disappear.

Estimated Cost: 2950 Euro

Before and After Gynecomastia

Below are some before and after photos of male breast reduction surgery performed at Turk Aesthetic in Istanbul, Turkey.

Post-Operative Tips for Gynecomastia Surgery

Following gynecomastia surgery, it is crucial to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure a successful recovery. Here are some essential tips:

1. Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Strictly adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon, including the timely use of prescribed medications.
2. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from engaging in any strenuous work or heavy lifting during the initial recovery period.
3. Wear a Medical Corset: It is important to wear the recommended medical corset as directed to support healing.
4. Posture: Try to lie on your back, especially during the first few days after the operation.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated.

Pros & Cons

Disadvantages 

The potential drawbacks of gynecomastia surgery can arise based on the surgeon’s experience and the patient’s adherence to post-operative instructions. One significant concern is the possibility of not achieving the expected results.

Advantage 

When successful, the surgery can significantly boost a man’s self-confidence by eliminating the unwanted appearance of breast tissue, which may resemble women’s breasts in advanced cases.

Side Effects

• Some patients may experience asymmetry in the chest area post-surgery, often due to insufficient expertise on the surgeon’s part.
• There may be some numbness or tingling sensations in the breast area following the procedure.
• Small scars may appear, but these can often be minimized with ointments prescribed by your doctor.

Gynecomastia in Turkey, Istanbul

Turkey, particularly Istanbul, is a popular destination for tourists seeking medical treatment and leisure experiences. This is due to various advantages, including a wide range of options, expert doctors, high-quality services, and reasonable prices.

Gynecomastia is one of the cosmetic procedures available in Turkey, with costs varying by clinic, typically ranging from €2,500 to €3,500.

Gynecomastia Surgery Cost in Turkey, Istanbul

The cost of Gynecomastia in Turkey depends on several factors:

• The reputation of the medical clinic or hospital.
• The experience of the doctor.
• The type of anesthesia used.
• Additional services included in the package, as some clinics offer comprehensive packages that consist of treatment, accommodation, and transportation.

At Turk Aesthetic in Istanbul, the cost for gynecomastia surgery is approximately €2,500 to €3,500 for local anesthesia and €2,500 for general anesthesia. You can contact the Turk Aesthetic team via the contact page to inquire about package costs, including accommodation and transportation.

FAQ – Gynecomastia

Finally, you can contact our team directly to request information and prices from Turk Aesthetic.