Gynaecomastia

Gynaecomastia is a medical term which means male breast enlargement. In most of cases there is no known cause and it is a common condition. 

Gynaecomastia is a condition which causes boys and men to feel extremely self-conscious and embarrassed about how they look without a shirt on. Commonly referred to as “man boobs” it affects up to 70% of all males.

Many teenage boys experience some breast growth as they enter puberty and the condition naturally diminishes over a couple of years. Unfortunately, for many young men the enlarged breasts remain causing a loss of confidence. Hormonal problems, an excessive amount of fatty tissue, certain medications, steroids, body building supplements and the use of anti-retroviral drugs (ARV's) are some of the causes of gynaecomastia. Although it isn’t generally a serious physical condition it can cause significant emotional distress.

The good news is there is help at hand, Dr Slabbert has vast experience helping many youngsters and older men regain their confidence and self esteem. The male breast reduction surgery is routine and very discreet.

Typically your nipples may be painful and sensitive to the touch. This can also be exacerbated by a mass of fatty tissue behind the nipple area. It is quite common to feel as if there is a solid disc of tissue sitting behind the nipple. The condition can generally be confirmed by a physical examination. 

During your initial consultation, Dr Slabbert will discuss the different surgical treatment options available. Depending on the severity of the gynaecomastia he will guide you on which male breast reduction procedure suits you.

• Liposuction can be used effectively if the breast growth is only caused by fat deposits.
• In cases where there is both fat and excess breast tissue, then liposuction as well as tissue excision is used.
• In more complex cases, there is a need to remove excess skin as well as the fat and breast tissue.

The removed tissue is always sent away for pathological testing.

This type of surgery is a day procedure and does not typically require an overnight stay in hospital, as it can sometimes be performed with a local anaesthetic. A general anaesthetic is required if the surgery is more extensive.

After the procedure you will experience some bruising and swelling. Pain will be managed with pain medication. You will need to wear a compression garment for six weeks after your surgery. Driving should be avoided for 1 – 2 weeks and strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks.