Gynaecomastia Surgery Adelaide
(Enlarged/increased Breast Tissue in Males)
Dr Samuel Rice – MBBS, FRACS
Breast Surgeon Adelaide
Learn more about breast surgery and Dr Rice’s approach to Gynaecomastia and your care:
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What is Gynaecomastia
Gynaecomastia is an increase in breast tissue in males. It is commonly caused by a hormone imbalance, medicines, or an underlying illness.
Gynaecomastia usually affects both breasts but can affect one-side only. It more commonly occurs in:
Gynecomastia is usually a non-cancerous condition that may be caused by medicines, genetic conditions, poor diet, kidney or liver disease, hyperthyroidism and tumours. In many cases, the cause isn’t known.
Gynaecomastia Diagnosis and Treatments
If you are worried about enlarged male breasts, the first step is to talk to your GP or specialist, particularly if you have breast pain, tenderness and/or swelling, nipple discharge or a lump in your breast.
You may feel embarrassed, upset or anxious about how your chest looks and feels. It can help to talk to your doctor, family, friends, or partner. You can also ask to see a psychologist or counsellor. Gynaecomastia doesn’t increase the risk of breast cancer in males.
Gynaecomastia treatments
Gynaecomastia treatment/s will depend on your diagnosis, causal factors and personal situation (age, general health, medications and personal beliefs).
Infants and teenagers may grow out of the hormonal imbalance that causes gynaecomastia.
If Dr Rice knows the cause of your gynaecomastia, he may suggest:
If you don’t respond to the medicines and/or the above approaches, Dr Rice may recommend gynaecomastia surgery.
Gynaecomastia surgery (male breast reduction surgery)
Gynecomastia surgery is a procedure aimed at removing excess breast tissue in males.
Gynecomastia is characterised by the enlargement of breast tissue in males, often causing discomfort and anxiety. The surgery, called a subcutaneous mastectomy offers a solution by surgically removing the glandular tissue under the skin responsible for the breast enlargement.
Following the surgery – Postoperative recovery may involve wearing a compression garment to support the chest and aid in the healing process. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks and follow Dr Rice’s recovery instructions.
As well as addressing the physical symptoms of gynecomastia, patients may experience improved self-esteem and body image following surgery, enhancing their overall quality of life.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with the surgery, including infection, bleeding, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. Dr Rice will discuss expectations and concerns to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and to ensure realistic expectations in relation to surgical outcomes.
Gynaecomastia Surgery – Potential risks and complications
All surgeries carry risks and potential complications. Breast surgery risks may include but not limited to:
| Potential Risk | Description | Chance of Occurring |
|---|---|---|
| Post-operative bleeding | This may occur round the surgical site. | Less than 5% |
| Wound infection | Wound infection is rare after surgery. If an infection does occur, consult nursing staff and Dr Rice for evaluation immediately. | Less than 5% |
| Need for Further Surgery | Further surgery may be needed in some cases depending on your circumstances and further test results. | 5% |
What to expect after the operation
Dr Rice will see you after your surgery to discuss your results and to check your recovery is going to plan.
After the procedure – After surgery, you’re moved to a recovery room where the health care team monitors your recovery from the surgery and the anesthesia. Once you’re fully conscious, you’ll be moved to a hospital ward room.
A drain may be placed under the incision area. It is usually removed a few days after surgery.
After surgery, you may experience some pain near the surgical area. Dr Rice will discuss a pain management plan with you and hospital staff are on hand to ensure you are comfortable and to help monitor your pain levels.
You’ll be able to eat and drink as usual after surgery. Depending on the type of surgery you had, you may be able to go home the day of your procedure or Dr Rice may recommend that you stay overnight in the hospital.
Dr Rice will discuss with you a pain management plan, showering and wound cleaning and when you can return to your regular activities. Wait at least two weeks before doing any heavy lifting or vigorous activity.
It may take up to a year or more for the scar from surgery to fade. A follow up appointment with Dr Rice will be organised to discuss test results and follow up appointments and tests.
Dr Rice is a proud member of Breast Surgeons of Australia and New Zealand.
Gynaecomastia Surgery Adelaide
Dr Rice consults with patients from all over Adelaide in relation to Breast Surgery including Gynaecomastia. Dr Rice is supported by a dedicated team who provide information and care in a sensitive and supportive manner to address the needs of patients attending the hospital and undertaking surgery and recovery. Dr Rice consults from three locations including Calvary North Adelaide Hospital, Calvary Central Districts Hospital and 480 Specialist Centre.