Gynecomastia by Mastectomy in Raleigh, NC*

Gynecomastia or male breast enlargement is fairly common in adolescence but when it persists in adulthood, it typically does not resolve on its own. Surgical intervention is necessary to treat it. The severity of gynecomastia can be classified according to a grading scale. Grade 1 involves minimal enlargement without change in nipple position while grade IV involves severe enlargement with significant breast ptosis or drooping of the nipple. This is frequently associated with a feminine appearance of the male breast. It is often termed "man boobs". Treatment options vary depending on severity. Sometimes liposuction alone is all that is necessary and is best performed with an ultrasonic device called a Vaser. This tends to shatter the fat and allows some of the breast tissue and fatty tissue to be removed without major incisions. More severe cases require mastectomy or direct removal and in cases where there is skin excess and breast ptosis or drooping, incisions which leave permanent scars are necessary to reshape the breast. This 38-year-old man had lost over 100 lbs. through dietary changes and exercise. He always had breast enlargement, but it got much worse with weight loss. Dr Lyle performed mastectomy with free nipple grafts. This technique allows placement of the nipple in the desired location without having to retain breast tissue to maintain blood supply. The nipple take time to heal and usually don't have much sensation. Patient satisfaction is high.