How is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?
Dr. Singh takes two approaches to gynecomastia surgery. In an excisional procedure, he makes a peri-areolar incision, which is a circular cut around the areola. Through that, he removes excess glandular tissue. The other approach is simply using liposuction, which leaves less conspicuous scarring and a quicker recovery time.
While the latter method sounds more appealing, the true difference lies within the extent of correction that they can achieve. Through peri-areolar incisions, Dr. Singh can make more noticeable improvements while liposuction is best for minor adjustments.
Many patients undergo a combination of the two approaches. It can provide the most comprehensive results, for meeting each patient’s aesthetic goals and unique requirements.
Peri-Areolar
When gynecomastia is severe, patients may require a more invasive approach with incisions. The go-to method is making peri-areolar incisions, which are just circular cuts around the areola. It provides generous vision and access to the treatment area, for him to remove tissue and fat. This location also lets the scars blend in with the areola, once they heal and fade.
When beginning, he uses local anesthesia and IV sedation to ensure the operation is painless and comfortable for the patient. The length and extent of surgery depend on how much needs to be exercised. A qualified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Singh, requires upwards of 3-4 hours to complete the procedure.
Post-operation, patients commonly report some soreness and moderate swelling, though it typically subsides within a few weeks. Within 7 days, most are able to return to work and light activities. However, at this time, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, which could damage healing tissues, extend the recovery process, and ruin results.
Liposuction
For patients who want more subtle results or only require minimal adjustments, liposuction would best fit their needs. There are 2 locations where Dr. Singh can make the entry incision. During your initial consultation, this area will be decided on after considering the pros and cons, as well as discussing potential scarring and results.
In some cases, an incision is made along the bottom half of the areola, providing direct access to the treatment area. The downside is more visible scarring, being front and center. For others, Dr. Singh may make an incision within the armpit, resulting in hidden scars but it will be more difficult to perform.
Being a less-invasive alternative to gynecomastia surgery, he is only able to remove less fat and tissue. And in liposuction, excess skin is simply not removed. The recovery process is much shorter — only a few weeks, with some patients returning to work in just several days.
