Gynecomastia is the growth of breast tissue in men. Newborns, boys going through puberty and older men can develop gynecomastia as a result of normal changes in hormone levels. Obesity and certain drugs can also cause gynecomastia.
Some men may feel embarrassed and limit their activities to hide their condition. Gynecomastia surgery involves the removal of glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes skin. Wake Forest surgeons are experienced at gynecomastia surgery, and can help create a more masculine profile and restore confidence.
Gynecomastia Treatment
Wake Forest Baptist Health surgeons discuss multiple considerations with each patient, including the underlying cause, age, tissue elasticity and skin redundancy. These will affect the type of surgery we recommend. We may require additional lab or radiology testing before deciding on the specific treatment.
In gynecomastia surgery, the surgeon makes a direct excision of glandular tissue and then attempts to hide the scars. Liposuction is frequently used to enhance contouring of the chest. For patients with significant excess skin, skin excision may also be recommended.
This outpatient surgery typically lasts one to two hours and is an outpatient procedure. A compression garment is often recommended for several weeks.