Gynecomastia; Does the pull-through method reduce the risk of nerve damage to this area?

The treatment of gynecomastia involves removing the tissue that is causing the chest to look puffy or enlarged. In most cases this involves removing 100% of the breast tissue. However, sometimes a very small amount of tissue may need to be left behind to avoid any contour abnormalities. For this reason, it is always discussed with patients that if they continue steroid use after surgery there is a chance that gynecomastia may return, albeit to a lesser degree.As with all cosmetic surgery, results will be rewarding if expectations are realistic. With any surgical procedure, there are some risks which your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation.There are three types of surgical treatment options available that treat gynecomastia. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will recommend the type best suited for you. The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal candidate. Weight, and more specifically body mass index (BMI), need to be considered when deciding. For instance, studies have shown that patients with BMI > 30kg/m sq (placing them in the obese category) have a higher complication rate. Therefore, it is important for patients to be as close as possible to their normal body weight prior to surgery.Not only will this decrease risks of complications, but will also enhance the aesthetic results. Further, normal body weight is different from one patient to another.

The pull through procedure is a minimal invasive procedure, but normal sensation is never guaranteed. If it is important to you then you may not want to risk it. Good Luck

I have used the technique frequently without compromising nipple sensation.  I believe your risk is low but discuss this concern in detail with your surgeon.  Good luck
and be safe.John T.
Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICSDouble Board
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Risks associated with gynecomastia surgery include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, under or over correction, skin contour irregularities, loss or change of sensation, recurrence of gynecomastia, pneumothorax and the need for additional surgery.  Potentially life-threatening problems such as deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism are very rare.
 My best advice: make sure that your surgeon  is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can demonstrate lots of experience, SAFELY achieving the types of outcomes you would be pleased with.
 Best wishes.

Thank you for your question and any technique that successfully removes the gland may be associated with changes in sensation though complete loss of sensation is rareDr Corbin

there is a well-established technique that uses a small incision in the armpit and a specialized instrument to pulverize the remaining gland tissue which can then be suctioned out. Find someone in your area that does this operation routinely and you should be pretty happy with it.