Male Breast Reduction / Gynecomastia Surgeon in Vancouver
Gynecomastia is a common condition characterized by the development of breast tissue upon the male chest. It can range from mild with small deposits just behind the nipple, to severe involving the majority of the anterior chest wall resulting in a true male breast or ‘man-boob’.
Excessive enlargement of the male breast affects a great number of men at some point during their life. Often it occurs during puberty but by the early 20’s most cases have resolved by themselves. In some men however, despite a healthy weight and regular exercise, a stubborn area of tissue persists under the nipple and surrounding area creating a ‘man-boob.’ This may cause embarrassment and have an impact on the clothes and activity choices a man is happy to make. Gynecomastia surgery is an effective way of reducing the excess breast tissue.
Dr. Tregaskiss will spend time with you to help understand your goals, answer all your questions and make recommendations.
Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia) Quick Facts
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Surgery | Day surgery |
| Cost | Prices starting from $8,000 |
| Recovery | - Typically go home with 2 drains after surgery for 5-7 days - 7-10 days off work - 3-4 weeks light activity only - After 3-4 weeks activities can be increased - Resume full activities after 6 weeks |
Gynecomastia FAQs
A common condition characterized by the development of breast tissue upon the male chest. It can range from mild with small deposits just behind the nipple, to severe involving the majority of the anterior chest wall resulting in a true male breast or ‘man-boob’.
Most frequently treatment requires a combination of excision (cutting out) of the breast tissue and liposuction of the excess fatty tissue. In a minority of cases liposuction alone can be effective. Dr. Tregaskiss will be able to discuss your individual case and what is the best approach during your consultation.
Typically, the scars are around the lower ½ of the nipple and in the majority of patients these settle down extremely well.
Showering and bathing:
Showering can commence the day after surgery as your dressings are showerproof.Do not shower in very hot water, rather use a more moderate water temperature. At the end of the second week it is usually OK to start taking baths, if Dr. Tregaskiss is happy with your healing.
Exercise:
Very light regular daily activities are allowed by day 2 after surgery, but these may be sore initially. Depending on the recovery and the first post-operative visit, you can increase your activity level after the first 2 weeks.You should not do any activity that increases your heart rate above 120 beats per minute for the first 4 weeks. It is important to ‘listen’ to your body: if an activity hurts or causes much discomfort then wait longer. Do not participate in any strenuous activity until 6 weeks after your surgery. This includes: heavy lifting/weight lifting, extreme stretching exercises such as yoga, strenuous sporting activities.
Driving:
You must not drive for 48 hours after a general anesthetic. Driving can typically begin again 5-7 days post-surgery.
Sleeping:
Make sure to sleep on your back and prop yourself up with pillows. This will help facilitate getting in and out of bed. Avoid sleeping on your belly or side for 6 weeks following your procedure.
Work:
Return to work depends very much on the individual and the type of work activity you perform. Most individuals can return to work in some capacity 1-2 weeks post-surgery (typically 1 week).
Follow-up:
Follow-up is tailored to the individual case but typically occurs, 1-2 weeks post-surgery, 4-6 weeks, and 3-6 months post surgery.
Typically, Dr. Tregaskiss leaves 2 drains in after surgery that stay for 5-7 days depending on individual case.
Yes, you will be provided with a compression garment after your surgery that you must wear for 6 weeks. It is essential that you wear this all the time for 6 weeks for the optimal cosmetic outcome. Failure to wear the garment will result in sub-par aesthetics outcomes.
Pain relief:
Most patients will experience some pain after their procedure, more so in the first few days after your surgery. The severity of pain experienced varies between individuals based on their tolerance for pain and the surgical technique used. Dr. Tregaskiss will provide you with a prescription for pain relief medication which can be tailored to each individual case. Prior to and during surgery you will receive both a combination of analgesics (painkillers) and local anesthetics to minimize post-surgery pain. The post-surgery pain can be well controlled with tablet analgesics that will be prescribed before discharge from the surgery centre. Some pain medications can cause constipation so remember to stay well-hydrated and consider a stool softener to help.
Nausea and sickness:
Some people find that the anesthetic medication used during surgery can cause them to feel nauseous. You can try taking ginger drinks or Gravol tablets from the pharmacy, but if it persists a prescription for stronger anti-sickness medication can be provided. Even if you are feeling sick it is important to keep taking fluids to prevent dehydration and constipation.
About Dr. Ashley Tregaskiss
MB, BS, MSc, FRCS (Plast), FRCSCDr. Ashley Tregaskiss is a plastic surgeon based in Vancouver and Langley, British Columbia who has practiced medicine in the UK, Australia and Canada for over 15 years. He works in both the private sector with a focus on breast, body and facial aesthetic surgeries as well as in the public sector. His public/MSP work is varied, with a focus on cancer reconstruction and trauma. He has completed fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, breast reconstruction, craniofacial trauma and head & neck reconstruction.
Dr. Tregaskiss and his team strive to create a welcoming, professional and courteous environment for all patients and to achieve surgical excellence and beautiful cosmetic outcomes.
Dr. Tregaskiss takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns, answer all your questions, make recommendations and discuss your surgical options in detail so you feel comfortable before deciding to proceed with surgery.
We understand that choosing to get surgery can cause anxiety in some people. Therefore our caring and licensed staff is there to support you and make you feel comfortable every step of the way from consultation to recovery to follow-ups. Our team ensures patient safety and strives for quick recovery time. Dr. Tregaskiss uses innovative techniques and customized approach for each patient to achieve natural looking and incredible plastic surgery outcomes.
Estimated Fees
Prices starting from $8,000.
Fees can vary depending on your requirements. Contact us to know the exact fees for your procedure.
Financing Available
Third-party financing options available. We are pleased to have partnered with Medicard who can provide patient financing for medical procedures. We will provide any assistance with this process that we can.Breast Surgery With a Difference
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