Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) is a very common condition. In most cases, there is no apparent cause for the development of the male breast tissue, although it can occur as a side-effect of some medications, significant weight gain, or from some medical conditions. Men often feel self-conscious about the condition, and it can lead to teasing, and embarrassment in situations like going to the beach and other athletic activities.

Two types of surgery are utilized for the treatment of gynecomastia. Liposuction (often utilizing ultrasonic liposuction) and direct excision. Frequently both treatment modalities are used together to obtain the best results.

If the excess tissue is mostly soft, fatty tissue, liposuction alone may be a good option. This can be performed through small incisions along the lower edge of the areola, and/or the lateral or lower chest.

If the excess tissue is dense and glandular, then excision will be required (often performed along with liposuction). This is done through an incision along the lower half of the areola. The scars from these incisions typically fade very well, and often become nearly imperceptible.

Dr. Leigh is very experienced and skilled in the treatment of gynecomastia. He evaluates his patients at the initial consultation, and gathers personal information including history and risk factors. Dr. Leigh works with each patient to develop the best treatment option.

These surgeries are most often done under a light, general anesthesia, in which patients sleep through the entire procedure and feel no pain. Small cases may be done under local anesthesia, although there is some discomfort associated with the local anesthetic injections.

Scars from this procedure are inevitable, although the scars from gynecomastia treatment usually fade to the point of being nearly imperceptible. Suboptimal scarring can, however, occur. Occasionally a fluid collection develops where the tissue was removed, and this can require drainage. Swelling after surgery is normal, and it takes at least 6 months to obtain the full result from surgery, although much of the improvement is apparent by 4-6 weeks.

Patients will likely be wrapped with a compressive dressing after surgery and will be able to go home a short time after the procedure with the help of a friend or relative to act as the driver. Generally, rest is recommended the first several days after surgery, and most patients may return to work within several days if the work does not involve physical labor. A light compressive garment may be recommended for several weeks after the procedure to minimize swelling.