GYNECOMASTIA
Gynecomastia Mastectomy in Galway | Male Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia mastectomy is the surgical removal of excess tissue and fat from male breasts. During puberty, surges in hormones can lead to the growth of male breast tissue. This may shrink again after puberty but, in many cases the excess tissue remains. Other causes include some medication and of course, excess weight gain. It is important to note that the regrowth of this excess fat and tissue can return due to weight gain.
The Consultation
The first step is to come in for a consultation. During this the consultant will access you to ensure you are suitable for this type of operation. The procedure will be explained to you and any questions you have will be answered by the consultant. It is a good idea to make note of any queries you have prior to the consultation to ensure you leave feeling reassured and knowledgeable on the procedure itself.
Insurance
In some cases, your surgery may be covered by your health insurance. Should the consultant feel the criteria needed by the insurance to grant cover is met, a letter will be written applying for pre-approval on your behalf.
In order for this pre-approval letter to be as accurate as possible it is important to note your currant height and weight before coming in for your consultation.
If you do not have private health insurance or do not meet the criteria for insurance cover, we will send you a breakdown of the total cost of your procedure in the weeks following your consultation. The price can vary slightly per person depending on the complexity of each case but an estimate may be given to you during the consultation.
Before your Surgery
Payment:
Self-Paying patients will be given a quote in the weeks following their consultation. The overall cost is broken down into three separate payments:
1. The Consultants Fee: This fee must be paid in advance of the surgery.
2. The Anaesthetist Fee: Payment for the anaesthetist is given on the day of surgery.
3. The Hospital Fee: The Bon Secours Hospital will take payment on admission the day of surgery.
Fasting:
Fasting guidelines will be sent to you once your surgery is booked and these guidelines must be followed.
Queries:
The consultant will meet with you before your surgery so any queries you may have in relation to your procedure will be clarified during this time. Alternatively, a second consultation can be arranged prior to surgery.
General Health:
You will be asked to undergo blood tests on the day of your procedure. This is to ensure you are fit and healthy for your surgery.
Avoid aspirin for two weeks before and after your surgery as this may cause an increase in bleeding.
Avoid alcohol for at least two days before and after the surgery.
Clothing & Personal Items:
In most cases you will be staying overnight so it is important to bring comfortable/loose clothing and any personal items you feel you may need.
Medication:
You may be advised to stop certain medication such as blood thinners. Please mention any medication of note during your consultation so the correct guidelines can be explained to you.
Smoking:
As for any major surgery it is advised that you quit smoking at least two weeks before and after your surgery.
The reason being that smoking increases your risk of chest and wound infections and slows down the healing process of the body.
The Procedure
This procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic so please ensure you are compliant with the above guidelines. The procedure itself takes approximately 90 minutes and you may be required to stay overnight.
During the procedure excess fat and glandular tissue are removed. Liposuction may also be required for the procedure to have the best outcome. If this is the case it will be discussed and advised during your consultation.
Post-Surgery
Please note you will not be discharged without someone picking you up as you will not be able to drive.
Pain following the procedure is expected and can be relieved with painkillers. You will be advised about bathing and care of your wound dressing prior to being discharged. Dressings will be changed one week after surgery during your first post op appointment which will take place back in the Bon Secours Hospital.
Infection:
Like with every surgical procedure there is a risk of infection. Should this happen, it can be treated with antibiotics but it is important to note that having an infection can slow down the healing process.
Blood may collect after the surgery, and this may require a return to theatre for evacuation.
Scarring:
Scars will be red for the first few weeks/months after surgery but will change to a purple colour before fading to white. Using a scar cream such as BapScar, which has a high silicone content, and massaging this into the scar tissue will be beneficial to the healing process. This may be used approximately a month post-surgery.
Recovery
The exact time frame for this varies per person as it depends on the complexity of your operation, the type of work you do and the body’s natural healing process but generally you can expect:
• Returning to work: 2 weeks
• Exercise/heavy lifting: 6 weeks
• Ability to drive: Not for the first 2 weeks and only when you feel the ability to control the car adequately
Post Op Appointments
Before being discharged from the hospital you first post-op appointment will be arranged. This appointment will take place in the out-patients department in the hospital a week to ten days after your operation. During this appointment your wound will be assessed and your dressings will be changed.
Post Op Appointments to factor in:
1. First week post op back in the hospital in the out-patients department
2. Second post op will be 4 weeks later in Galway Plastic Surgery. Please call us on (091) 779 775 to schedule this.
3. Final post op appointment to make sure recovery is fully complete will be 3 months after your month post op. This will be scheduled for you before you leave the private rooms when attending for your second post op.