Solutions for Puffy Nipples in Men

FAQs about Gynecomastia Surgery

How long does gynecomastia surgery take?

The entire procedure usually takes 1-2 hours to complete. This will depend on several factors such as your breast condition, the results you want to achieve, and the overall complexity of the case.

What is the recovery process like after gynecomastia surgery?

After gynecomastia surgery, you will need to limit your activity for approximately one month to allow your wounds to heal. Although you may have some swelling and bruising, you can usually resume your work (except for jobs that involve strenuous activities) in a couple of days.

You will need to avoid physical chest contact for three to four weeks to prevent putting pressure on the incision sites. In the first few days, you may experience pain in the surgical incision sites but this can be managed by taking the prescribed painkillers.

What kind of scars will I have after gynecomastia surgery?

After your consultation, you’ll be given a date for the surgery including specific instructions on how to prepare. These may include the following:

• Avoid certain medications that can increase your risk of bleeding such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
• Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages a few weeks before the surgery.
• Avoid wearing makeup or other cosmetics on the day of the surgery.
• Fast the day before surgery if general anaesthesia will be used.
• Get the prescribed laboratory tests or medical evaluation.
• Schedule a few weeks off work.
• Use the prescribed surgical soap on the day of the surgery.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes on the day of the surgery.

Can exercise reduce the appearance of enlarged breasts in men?

Performing certain chest exercises that focus on strengthening and toning your chest muscles may help reduce the appearance of enlarged breasts. These include the following:

• Barbell bench press
• Chest press
• Forward dips
• Incline bench cable fly
• Push-ups

In addition, you should also perform some aerobic exercises such as:

• Cycling
• Jogging
• Jumping rope
• Running
• Swimming

Can diet reduce the appearance of enlarged breasts in men?

If the cause of enlarged breasts is excess body fat, then your diet should focus on reducing your weight. Foods to include in your diet are raw fruit and vegetables. You also eat high-fibre foods such as beans, broccoli, berries, avocados, whole grains, and dried fruits. To avoid weight gain, you should limit eating processed foods with added sugars and refined carbohydrates (e.g. white bread, pastries, and pasta).

If the cause of enlarged breasts is hormonal imbalance, it is recommended that you avoid foods high in estrogen, a hormone that modulates sex drive, erection, and sperm production. Evidence suggests that this hormone promotes fat storage in men which can lead to significant weight gain. Therefore, you should avoid estrogen-rich foods such as:

• Alfalfa
• Berries
• Dried fruits
• Flax seeds
• Lima beans
• Peaches
• Sesame seeds
• Soy products
• Split peas
• Wheat bran

What happens if gynecomastia is not treated?

If you have gynecomastia, you are more likely to experience physical discomforts such as frequent skin irritation, breast pain, and poor hygiene due to moisture build-up under the skin folds.

Can breasts grow back after surgery?

During the gynecomastia surgery, Dr Turner removes the excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the results of the surgery can be impacted by significant weight gain. Also, the use of steroids and certain medications can cause enlarged breasts.

Can male breast reduction surgery be done twice for enlarged breasts?

For best results, the surgery can be performed twice. This is usually done if there are still excess fat and tissues left on your breasts. During your follow-up appointment, Dr Turner will assess your breast condition to determine the need for another surgery.

Is male breast reduction surgery painful?

You will receive anaesthesia during the procedure so you will feel less discomfort. After the surgery, the effects will wear off so you might experience some pain and discomfort. This can be managed by taking pain medications prescribed by your surgeon.