Gynecomastia Sydney – Male Breast Reduction Surgery by Dr Kernohan Plastic Surgeon NSW
Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) surgery is a plastic surgery procedure that helps men get rid of excess glandular tissue on the chest. This procedure is one of the most requested plastic surgery interventions for men as it can help reduce unwanted fat deposits and the excess of glandular tissue.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Michael Kernohan, performs the gynecomastia procedure in Sydney’s Southwest Suburbs and the Southern Highlands NSW.
What Are the Causes of Gynecomastia?
There are many different causes of gynecomastia. This condition could be a hormonal response to an excess of estrogen in the body, or it could occur due to a low level of testosterone.
Gynecomastia can occur at different ages. However, when it occurs at an adult age, it often needs surgical intervention. It’s important to mention that gynecomastia could also occur due to hereditary reasons or because of obesity.
Male Breast Reduction Surgery Guide
Here are the main causes of gyno or gynecomastia:
- A hormonal imbalance in the body
- Obesity
- A genetic predisposition
- Liver or lung cancer
- Cirrhosis
- Excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs
In some cases, the gynecomastia can occur as a side effect of medication such as:
- Steroids
- Ulcer medication
- Epilepsy medication
- Chemo administered medication
- Medication to treat heart conditions
- Anti-anxiety or anti-depressive medication
Who Is a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gyno Surgery may be an efficient option for getting rid of excess glandular tissue. To be eligible to undergo this procedure, you should fulfill certain criteria such as:
- Having good health and emotional condition
- No pre-existing health conditions that could delay the healing process
- Have a relatively normal weight
- The chest is fully developed
- Are not smoking or could quit smoking for at least a few weeks before and after the surgery is performed
- Have good skin tone
- Are not using drugs
- Have realistic expectations from the surgery – clear goals, and a positive attitude
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for this procedure is to schedule an appointment with Dr Kernohan for an initial consultation.
The Gynecomastia Surgery Procedure
The traditional male breast reduction technique entails an incision around the areola to allow the surgeon to remove the underlying mammary tissue that is in excess. This procedure aims to eliminate not only the excess of glandular tissue but also the fat that could be present in the area.
The intervention could take up to an hour or more to get optimal results, depending on the individual characteristics of the patient.
Main Advantages of Getting Gynecomastia Surgery with Dr Kernohan
- Small scars are well hidden in the natural folds of the skin
- Lower risk of post-operative bleeding
What to Expect from Gynecomastia Surgery?
Your journey starts with a consultation with Dr Kernohan. During this consultation, you will get to discuss your goals and expectations from the procedure and any concerns you have.
Dr Kernohan will ask you about your medical history and the medication you are currently on (if any). At the same time, he will perform a physical examination and give you more details about the procedure and how it applies to your particular case.
What Happens During Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia is performed under general anaesthesia to avoid any pain or discomfort during the intervention.
If the excessive size of the breasts is caused by an excess of fat tissue, Dr Kernohan might start the procedure by performing liposuction on the chest. Liposuction entails small incisions that are well hidden in the folds of the skin. A small hollow steel cannula is inserted through these incisions. With back and forth movements, he will dislodge the fat from the chest area. The fat is then suctioned into a medical vacuum device connected to the cannula.
The next step of the intervention is eliminating the excess mammary gland tissue and skin. The tissue is removed surgically through a small excision.
The incisions are covered with bandages and/ or compressive bandages. Compression clothing is essential as it helps reduce the swelling and bruising and speeds up the recovery.
If Dr Kernohan removed a considerable amount of tissue during the surgery, drain tubes might be used on each side of the chest to drain the excess fluid.
After the surgery is performed, you will need to see Dr Kernohan regularly to allow him to monitor the recovery process and ensure you get the best results possible after your surgery.
Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery in Sydney
Before undergoing surgery, you should be aware that the final results of the intervention are not visible immediately after the procedure. There is a certain level of swelling and bruising in the area after the intervention. These will subside in time with no additional treatment. In most cases, it takes two to three weeks for most of the swelling and bruising to dissipate after gynecomastia surgery.
Analgesic medication is prescribed to alleviate the pain and discomfort after the surgery. At the same time, Dr Kernohan might prescribe antibiotics to help you avoid a potential infection. The elastic bandage or compression clothing should be worn for a minimum of three to four weeks as it can help optimise the results achieved with the surgery and help your body recover.
Most patients can resume daily activities within the first-week post-op. However, the recommendation is to take at least a week off from work, especially if the work entails a certain level of physical activity.
You might be allowed to resume physical activities two weeks post-op and expect to resume working out at the gym four to six weeks after your surgery. Make sure to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Potential Risks and Complications of Gynecomastia
All Surgery has risks. Gynecomastia is a complex surgery procedure performed under general anaesthesia. Just like it is the case with other surgical interventions, it has certain risks and complications. While the procedure is considered to be safe and effective when performed by a experienced plastic surgeon, you will need to follow his instructions to avoid complications.
Find out more about risks of plastic surgery here.
How much is a Gynecomastia Surgery in Sydney?
Gyno Surgery for Gynecomastia can cost around $8,000 to $17,000 in Sydney. The fees will vary depending on the experience and skills of the surgeon, the facility where the procedure is performed, the complexity of the intervention, as well as other factors.
Keep in mind that the fee shouldn’t be the first and most important criteria when choosing the plastic surgeon for your intervention.
To find out more about the fees of plastic surgery, have a look at Dr Kernohan prices page. You can contact Dr Kernohan’s team to schedule an appointment or phone (02) 8310 4576 to get a cost estimate now.
Does Medicare Cover Gynecomastia Surgery?
The procedures performed for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes only are often not covered by Medicare or insurance. But some Gyno surgery may qualify for Medicare coverage and health insurance subsidy. For more details, check out Item Number 31525 and read about Medicare item numbers here.
Funding your Gynecomastia Surgery
Even if your procedure is not covered by Medicare or insurance, you still have other options when it comes to funding your gynecomastia surgery. There are payment options available to help you.
How to Find the Right Gynecomastia Surgeon in Sydney
One of the most important aspects to keep in mind when looking for the right gynecomastia surgeon in Sydney is experience.
With the plastic surgeon’s experience also comes his ability to help you avoid risks and potential complications and have an uneventful recovery period.
Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs
Next Steps
- Contact Dr Kernohan’s Team for an Enquiry or Appointment
