How to do Gyno Surgery: Step By Step | Dr. Dhruv Chavan

How Gynecomastia Surgery is done?

Gynecomastia, commonly referred to as male breast enlargement, can significantly impact an individual’s self-esteem and body image. In this blog, we will shed some light on the surgical journey for gynecomastia. We will discuss each step here, right from the initial diagnosis to the moment of discharge.
So let’s begin.

Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery, technically known as reduction mammoplasty, aims to restore a more masculine chest contour by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and sometimes skin. It’s a definitive solution for those who haven’t seen improvement through alternative treatments like medication or weight loss.

The Road to Diagnosis

The journey begins with recognizing the symptoms – a noticeable enlargement of the chest, which might also be tender or sore. At this stage, consulting a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon is crucial.

A thorough evaluation, including physical exams and imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI, will confirm whether you’re dealing with true gynecomastia or pseudo-gynecomastia, a condition marked by fat deposition without glandular tissue enlargement.

Understanding the nature of your condition is critical, as it determines the treatment approach. Pseudo-gynecomastia, for instance, can often be managed with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.

Preparing for Surgery

Getting ready for gynecomastia surgery involves several steps to make sure everything goes smoothly. After your doctor decides surgery is the right option for you, you’ll have to do a few tests. These tests check your overall health and make sure your heart is healthy for the surgery.

They usually include checking your blood, taking pictures of your chest with an X-ray, and an ECG, which is a simple test that looks at how your heart is beating.

You also need to prepare where you’ll be resting at home after the surgery. Make sure you have a comfortable spot set up with everything you might need close by, like water, snacks, your phone, and any medications.

The night before your surgery, you have to stop eating and drinking at midnight. This is because your stomach needs to be empty for the anesthesia to work safely during your surgery.

The Day of Surgery

The day you go in for your surgery might make you feel nervous, but knowing what to expect can help calm those nerves. Once you get to the hospital, you’ll talk to your doctor one last time before they take you to where the surgery happens.

Your surgeon will draw on your chest to mark where they need to work. This is really important for making sure the surgery goes well and your chest looks even when they’re done.

The surgery starts with you getting anesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep and won’t feel anything during the procedure. Depending on how much extra tissue you have, the surgeon might use liposuction, which sucks out fat, or they might cut out extra glandular tissue, or sometimes both.

Post-Surgery and Recovery

Right after the surgery, you’ll be taken to a place where nurses can watch you closely as you wake up from the anesthesia. It’s normal to feel sore, and you might see some swelling or bruises, but you’ll get medicine to help with the pain.

The first part of getting better after surgery is really important. You’ll have to wear a special tight garment that helps reduce swelling and helps your chest heal with the right shape. Even though you need to rest, it’s also good to move a little bit now and then to keep your blood flowing well.

You’ll go back to see your doctor a few times after your surgery so they can check on how you’re healing. These visits are a chance to ask questions and make sure everything is going as expected. You’ll also talk about when you can start doing your regular activities again, like going back to work or starting to exercise.

The Psychological Aspect of Recovery

Recovering from gynecomastia surgery involves more than just the physical healing process; it significantly impacts one’s mental and emotional well-being. Here’s what you need to know about the psychological journey post-surgery:

• Boost in Self-Confidence: Many individuals experience a substantial increase in self-esteem following their recovery. The removal of excess breast tissue can help alleviate the discomfort and self-consciousness associated with gynecomastia.

• Improved Body Image: Patients often report feeling more comfortable in their skin and satisfied with their appearance after surgery. This positive change in body image is a key factor in the psychological healing process.

• Patience is Crucial: It’s important to understand that results won’t appear overnight. The body needs time to heal, and the final outcome may take several months to fully manifest. Being patient and setting realistic expectations can help mitigate feelings of frustration or disappointment.

• Emotional Support Matters: Having a strong support system in place can significantly influence your recovery journey. Friends, family, and support groups can offer the emotional backing and encouragement needed to navigate the post-operative period.

• Possible Emotional Rollercoaster: It’s normal to go through a range of emotions after surgery. Relief, excitement, anxiety, and even doubt can all surface as you adjust to your new body and navigate the recovery process.

• Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you find yourself struggling with negative emotions or difficulty adjusting post-surgery, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Counseling or therapy can provide valuable tools and strategies for coping with these challenges.

Final Thoughts

Gynecomastia surgery can be a life-changing decision. It’s more than just a medical procedure; it’s a step toward reclaiming your confidence and comfort in your own body. You will be better prepared to make informed decisions by understanding the entire process.

Remember, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in gynecomastia surgery is crucial to get the best results. It also ensures your safety throughout the process. If you’re considering this surgery and need some more answers, feel free to reach out. Our experts can guide you better through personal consultation.