Would leaving some "glandular tissue" behind affect my results after gynecomastia surgery?

Question

If I was to live a lean lifestyle, low BF, will this glandular tissue left behind be visible while leaning out and muscle building? Surgeon I consulted with mentioned he would remove more glandular tissue while combing lipo for contouring and removal of excess fat. However he said he would leave "some" glandular tissue to prevent a pushed in nipple. I just want these boobs gone altogether. With this extra tissue leave me not satisfied with the results when I lean out and focus on bodybuilding?

James F. Boynton, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I agree with my colleague.  I devote a large portion of my practice to the treatment of gynecomastia and the male chest.  My approach has always been to do the procedure with the smallest possible incision, most of the time doing a "pull through" excision of the glandular tissue through a 3mm puncture incision.  I believe this gives a better shape/appearance and a faster recovery.  I believe ultimately that shape is the most important parameter in trying to give the best appearance to the male chest, and leaving some bit of glandular tissue I believe is important to prevent contour depressions/shape changes.   I think large crescentic incisions with more aggressive excision of trying to remove "all of the glandular" tissue can often lead to more shape changes issues with saucer or crater deformity of the nipple sometimes with adherence to the pectoralis muscle on occasion that can be more difficult to correct.  I hope this is helpful.  Good luck!

Robert Caridi, MD · Answer

As a general rule, I remove all the tissue that is under the areola. If you leave this tissue it's entirely possible that you will have puffy nipples that persist after treatment. There is an "art" to getting this procedure right. Experience truly matters to achieve the right "endpoint" of treatment so your patients are happy and not displeased with continued puffy nipples and chest fullness after treatment.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I think that your plastic surgeon has  given you good advice.  Leaving a small amount of glandular tissue in place is important in my opinion;  otherwise, you would be at risk for contour ("saucer") deformity complications.  In the end,  you will be happier with the outcome if you do not have a "surgical look" resulting from over resection.   Best wishes.

Would leaving some "glandular tissue" behind affect my results after gynecomastia surgery?

Answers (3)

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