Can Gynaecomastia Go Away Without Surgery? What Are the Treatment Options?
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of breast gland tissue in men. Treatment is planned according to the cause of the gynaecomastia, how long it has been present and whether the enlargement comes from gland tissue or fatty tissue. This article looks at what non-surgical options can and cannot change, and at the surgical process. For who gynaecomastia affects and its causes, you can read our article What Is Gynaecomastia and Who Does It Affect? Causes and Symptoms.
Does Gynaecomastia Go Away on Its Own?
Gynaecomastia that appears in puberty usually regresses on its own; for this reason it is generally monitored for a while first. In gynaecomastia linked to a medicine or another health problem, the enlargement may regress once the cause is addressed by a doctor. However, in long-standing gynaecomastia the gland tissue becomes firmer over time and the likelihood of it regressing on its own decreases.
How Effective Are Non-Surgical Options?
- Weight loss and exercise: These can reduce fatty tissue in the chest and improve the appearance; however, they usually do not shrink gland tissue.
- Medication: In some early-stage cases it may be considered by a doctor; its effect is limited in long-standing gynaecomastia. Hormones or medicines should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
- Cold treatment (cryolipolysis): It targets only fatty tissue; it has no effect on gland tissue.
- Creams, sprays and similar products: They have not been shown to shrink breast gland tissue.
- Stopping alcohol and substance use: If these contribute to gynaecomastia, stopping them can help prevent the enlargement from progressing.
How Is Gynaecomastia Surgery Performed?
The operation is planned according to the structure of the tissue in the chest. Fatty tissue is removed with liposuction, while firm gland tissue is usually removed through a small incision made around the nipple. In most people both methods are used together. In people with noticeable excess skin, an additional skin adjustment may be needed. The doctor decides the type of anaesthesia, the duration of the operation and the length of the hospital stay.
The Recovery Period
After surgery there may be swelling, bruising and tenderness in the chest; a compression vest is worn for a while to help reduce the swelling. The doctor decides how long the vest is worn and when it is possible to return to work, sport and heavy lifting. The incision scars are permanent, but they usually fade over time. Maintaining weight and avoiding the causes of gynaecomastia are important to preserve the result.
Risks
Like any surgical procedure, gynaecomastia surgery has risks. A collection of blood (haematoma), a collection of fluid (seroma), infection, asymmetry between the two sides, contour irregularities of the chest, changes in nipple sensation or a nipple that sinks inwards, noticeable scarring, and removal of too little or too much tissue may occur; in some cases a corrective operation may be needed. If there is rapidly increasing swelling or pain in the chest, fever or discharge from the wound after surgery, a doctor should be consulted without delay. For more detailed information you can read our gynaecomastia page.
Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın