Have you ever noticed some unexpected curves under your pecs? Don't panic, you haven't suddenly sprouted secret superpowers . It's likely a condition where you get enlarged male breasts.

This condition can be caused by hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or even just puberty. And while it's a common issue, it can also be a source of embarrassment and discomfort.

So, if you're considering treatment, you're probably wondering: should I get gynecomastia surgery or liposuction? Both procedures can help reduce the size of your breasts, but they have different approaches, effectiveness rates, and ideal candidates. Let's break it down.

In this article, Mykare Health will walk you through the thoughts and elements you need to make an informed selection.

All About Gynecomastia

• What is it?

It's the growth of breast tissue in men. Don't worry, it's not like female breasts, just some extra padding where you wouldn't expect it.

• Why does it happen?

Usually, it's a hormone imbalance. Testosterone (the manly stuff) dips, or oestrogen (the lady stuff) rises, throwing your body off balance. This can happen during puberty, with certain medications, or even due to health conditions.

• Is it serious?

No, mostly not. It's usually harmless, though it can be uncomfortable and mess with your confidence.

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is a more targeted procedure that specifically removes excess glandular tissue from the chest.

This tissue is what gives breasts their shape, so removing it directly addresses the root cause of the problem.

The surgery involves making small incisions around the nipple-areola complex and then carefully excising the glandular tissue. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to remove any excess fat.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a broader procedure that can be used to remove unwanted fat from anywhere on the body, including the chest.

During liposuction, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions and used to suction out fat cells.

While liposuction can be effective for reducing the size of fatty breasts, it won't address any underlying glandular tissue enlargement.

Which is Right for Me?

The best way to determine which procedure is right for you is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

They will examine your breasts and discuss your medical history to determine the cause and extent of your gynecomastia. Here's a general guideline:

Gynecomastia Surgery

Think of this as the "root canal" of male breast reduction. It tackles the problem at its source – the excess glandular tissue causing the bump. Here's what you need to know

Good for:

• Big bumps: If your man boobs are more like man mountains, liposuction alone might not cut it. Surgery removes the glandular tissue directly, for a flatter, more defined chest.

• Loose skin: Got extra skin hanging around after the breast tissue shrinks? Surgery can tighten things up for a smoother finish.

Not so good for:

• Small bumps: If your bumps are more like molehills than mountains, liposuction might be a less invasive (and cheaper) option.

• The faint of heart: Surgery comes with more downtime, risks, and scars compared to liposuction.

Effectiveness and Recovery

Both procedures can achieve excellent results when performed by experienced surgeons.

• Gynecomastia surgery: Offers a permanent solution for glandular tissue removal, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest contour.

• Liposuction: Effective for fat reduction, but may not provide the same degree of chest definition as surgery, especially in cases with significant skin laxity.

Patient Suitability:

• Gynecomastia surgery is ideal for men with

• Significant glandular tissue

• Excess skin

• Moderate to severe breast enlargement

• Well-defined breast tissue borders

Liposuction is a better option for men with:

• Minimal glandular tissue

• Predominantly fatty enlargement

• Mild to moderate breast enlargement

• Good skin elasticity

Cost

The cost of both procedures will vary depending on your individual needs and the surgeon's experience. Generally, gynecomastia surgery is more expensive than liposuction.

FAQ

1. Is gynecomastia surgery painful?

You will receive anaesthesia during the surgery, so you won't feel any pain. However, you may experience some discomfort afterwards, which can be managed with medication.

2. How long is the recovery time?

The recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery. Most men are able to return to work within a week, but it may take several weeks for the swelling and bruising to subside completely.

3. What are the risks of surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with gynecomastia surgery, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. However, these risks are rare when the surgery is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.