Breast Surgery

It’s a little known fact that 40 to 60% of the adult male population is afflicted with a certain degree of ‘gynaecomastia’- a term which loosely translated means ‘women-like breasts’. Gynaecomastia can be emotionally challenging for a man or boy and most commonly becomes evident during puberty.

It’s remarkably common, as up to 90% of adolescent boys will develop some form of male breast enlargement, which is resolved in the majority of men as they grow into adulthood. Yet for others, residual breast tissue does not go away during puberty. There are even instances where certain drugs (prescription and “recreational”) and hormonal medical problems can cause gynaecomastia.

Gynaecomastia surgery involves removing fat or some glandular tissue from the breasts, or both. In extreme cases, excess skin is removed as well, resulting in a firmer, flatter, chest.

What’s Involved?

The procedure involves an incision around the nipple followed by liposuction which removes excess breast tissue, resulting in the optimum chest profile. Gynaecomastia is performed under general anaesthetic, typically in the one day or sometimes requiring an overnight stay in hospital.

How Is Scarring Minimised?

It’s a fact of life that scars are an inevitable result of surgery. Dr Garry Buckland is specialised in minimising the effects and ensuring that any scars are inconspicuous by placing them discreetly along the skin lines and creases. Scars do fade over time, and Dr Buckland will advise you of scar treatment techniques to further minimise their visible effects.

What Happens During The Recovery Process?

You will go home with a compression garment on your chest. If drains are used they will be removed a day or two after the surgery. It is not a particularly painful procedure and oral pain killers are more than sufficient to control any discomfort.