Even though the development of overly large breasts happens mostly in women, the condition can also affect men. Bigger breasts are associated with femininity, which is why when males develop bigger breasts, the condition affects their self-esteem. Men desire to look masculine, instead of feminine and bigger breasts that make them appear feminine.
The factors that trigger large breast development in males include genetics, hormonal changes, weight gain, and the use of certain medications. The good news is that male breast reduction surgery can be used to reduce the size of male breasts effectively. The surgery is highly invasive and involves fat removal and skin excision. As such, there are many side effects and risks associated with male breast reduction.
The first side effect of the surgery is post-operative pain and discomfort. Since the surgery involves incisions and tissue removal, the patient will experience some degree of pain and discomfort for the first 24-72 hours following the intervention. The severity of the pain depends on the patient’s tolerance level. The patient can cope with the pain by using painkillers.
Secondly, the patient’s chest will be swollen and bruised after the surgery. It happens naturally and is a reaction of your body’s natural defense system against the incisions and surgical trauma. The bruising will disappear after a few days or a week; however, it would take more time for the post-operative swelling to subside.
One of the major side effects of male breast reduction surgery is the post-operative scarring. The incisions on the chest will ultimately develop into scars. The scars will become less visible and fade over time but will not disappear. There is a risk abnormal scarring may happen. Abnormal scars are raised, swollen, and aesthetically unappealing.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. As a result, there is a risk anesthesia reaction may happen. If you have a history of anesthetic reactions, you must discuss it with the surgeon during the initial consultation.
The surgery is invasive, which increases the risk of infection for the patient. After the procedure, the patient will be exposed to possible risks and complications. The infection can be mild, moderate, or severe. Oral antibiotics can help prevent the infections. Also, when a severe infection occurs, the patient will be required to get IV antibiotics.
The risk of seroma and hematoma is also present after the surgery. Seroma happens when the body discharges fluids that get trapped under the skin. On the other hand, a hematoma happens when blood is discharged from your body that gets trapped under the skin and becomes clotted. Using drain cannulas can prevent these problems.
During the surgery, the plastic surgeon may tamper with or injure the nerves. When this happens, it can result in a change or loss of skin sensation. In most cases, this change or loss of skin sensation is temporary.