Gynaecomastia, also known as man breasts, is a condition that affects many men, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress. Fortunately, gynaecomastia can be treated effectively with surgery. If you’re considering gyno surgery, it’s important to prepare for your gyno surgery consultation, so that you can ensure your surgeon understands your desired results and individual needs.
In this blog, we will provide some tips to help you get ready for your consultation. If, after reading this, you feel ready to book your consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, contact our team at Form & Face Clinic in Sydney today.
What is gynaecomastia surgery
Gynaecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is a procedure designed to remove excess breast tissue and restore a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
The procedure is highly personalised, therefore the steps will vary from patient to patient. The surgery typically involves the removal of excess breast tissue by liposuction (sucking out the fat using a small tube) or by excision (making an incision and cutting out the tissue). In some cases, the surgeon may need to tighten the skin to ensure a smooth and natural-looking result. This is typically done through suturing the skin or removing any excess skin.
Gynaecomastia procedures are performed under general anaesthesia, and can take about one to three hours to perform, depending on the extent of the tissue removal and the technique used.
Gyno surgery: Our preparation checklist
1. Do your research. Before your consultation, do your research about gynaecomastia and the surgical options available to treat it. This will help you understand what to expect from the surgery and allow you to ask the right questions during your appointment.
2. Write a list of questions. Your consultation is an opportunity to ask your surgeon any questions you may have about the surgery, the recovery process, and the results you can expect. Write down any questions you have before your appointment so that you can ensure that you will get a clear idea of what you can expect throughout your surgical journey.
3. Think about your expectations. During your consultation, make sure to discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon. This will help your surgeon understand your desired outcome and determine whether gynaecomastia surgery is the right choice for you.
4. Be honest and open. Be honest and open with your surgeon about any concerns you may have about the surgery. An experienced and qualified surgeon should make you feel confident during your consultation. Dr Norris takes a patient-centred approach to gynaecomastia surgery, ensuring that patients feel understood, supported and comfortable, from their consultation right through to recovery.
5. Review your medical history. Before your appointment, gather information about your medical history, including any current medications or supplements you are taking. Be honest about any past surgeries, illnesses, or health problems you have had. This information will be important for your surgeon to assess your suitability for gyno surgery.
6. Wear loose clothing. On the day of your consultation, wear loose clothing that will allow your surgeon to easily examine your chest. Avoid wearing tight clothing that may compress your chest and affect your surgeon’s assessment of your condition.
7. Check if you qualify for Medicare coverage. Gynaecomastia surgery may be covered by Medicare if it is deemed as medically necessary. Before your appointment, check with your doctor to assess whether or not the reason behind undergoing your procedure meets the requirements.
8. Take a look at before and after photos. Browse through some before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone gyno surgery. Reviewing these photos can help you understand the results you can expect, however, it is important not to use these pictures as a direct reference for the results you will achieve as every patient is unique and will see personalised results.
9. Consider if it is the right time to undergo surgery. Gyno surgery will require some downtime and recovery time, so it’s important to think about your lifestyle and work schedule when preparing for the procedure. You should plan to take some time off work and arrange for help with daily tasks if necessary.
10. Find the right surgeon. Finally, you will want to ensure that you are choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. In Australia, a plastic surgeon should be a
Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Ideally, your surgeon will have a page about their experience on their website. Take a look at Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Benjamin Norris’s page here.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Norris
At Form & Face Clinic in Sydney, Dr Benjamin Norris uses his over 20 years of training and experience to deliver the best results possible for every unique patient.
Taking an understanding and supportive approach, he will aim to make every patient feel comfortable during their gyno surgery consultation, creating a personalised gyno surgery plan and ensuring that patients feel thoroughly informed about what the procedure involves, what to expect after the procedure and how to support healing throughout recovery.
If you would like to book a gyno surgery consultation, contact our team today.