BodySculpture Plastic Surgery | Ioannis Varnalidis

Gynecomastia

The term refers to the abnormal breast enlargement (hyperplasia) in men. This phenomenon is caused by the hypertrophy of the mammary gland which is sometimes accompanied by body fat accumulation. In cases when this hypertrophy is only caused by body fat accumulation, the phenomenon is called pseudogynecomastia. Gynecomastia normally occurs in infants, teenagers and elderly people. Infant gynecomastia is caused by the mother’s estrogens that circulate inside the baby’s body and it is only temporary.

Gynecomastia usually occurs in 14 or 15 year old teenagers, as well, and lasts 1 to 2 years. The causes may be natural, pathological or related to the use of certain medicines. Most of the cases are idiopathic. Surgery is deemed necessary in adults whose gynecomastia occurred over 24 months ago. There are no signs of relapse after the surgery. Clinical examination is of utmost importance in order to exclude the possibility of a pathological cause and it must be combined with a hormone testing. The excess skin and breast adipose tissue, as well as part of the gland are surgically removed during the operation, which is sometimes combined with a liposuction. In mild cases, only liposuction is necessary.

Brief description of the procedure

The procedure requires general anesthesia. An inconspicuous peripapillary incision is made and the excess body fat is removed, along with part of the gland. In some cases, excess skin is removed, as well. Afterwards, the incision is closed. Dr. Varnalidis assesses each case and recommends a specific hormone testing in order to exclude the possibility of a pathological cause. In mild cases, liposuction is performed. Liposuction can also be performed in cases when part of the gland needs to be surgically removed, in order to achieve symmetry and a more natural appearance.

Safeguarding your health is my number one priority.

Dr. Varnalidis always discusses and explains each procedure step by step. He also offers extensive post-surgery advice and is here to answer any question you might have, so that a smooth recovery and the best functional and aesthetic outcome are achieved.