Changing practices: The addition of a novel surgical approach to gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can be a significant impediment to quality of life for men who suffer from this affliction. Numerous surgical techniques have been described in the literature ranging from minimally invasive options such as liposuction to incision based reductions. The standard for the general surgeons at our institution has been subcutaneous mastectomy through a circumareolar incision, which often proved inadequate for patients with grade II or III gynecomastia. In November 2013 we adopted a new technique, the "double donut", that offers the post-operative appearance of a limited incision, with the additional benefits of mastopexy, skin reduction, and mastectomy through an enlarged incision which is not superficially evident at the completion of the procedure.

We reviewed our surgical database for all cases performed for gynecomastia in the period from May 2005 to August 2016. Basic demographic information, diagnostic modality, symptoms, indication for procedure, operation performed, and final pathology were collected and analyzed.

There were 70 mastectomies performed on 52 subjects. All subjects were male; 14 were African American and 38 were Caucasian. The average age was 47 (23-73) years old. The majority of the patients were evaluated with mammogram and/or ultrasound. All but one patient presented with pain as the chief complaint. There were 41 mastectomies done prior to initiation of this technique and 29 were performed after. The average total volume of breast tissue excised via the previous technique was 97.4 cm³, this increased to 186.5 cm³ with the new technique. No necrosis of the NAC was seen and no wound infections resulted in complication. Cosmetic satisfaction was seen in 98% of patients.

The "double donut" technique is particularly useful for males with grades II or III gynecomastia. It provides good wound results, with acceptable patient satisfaction and cosmetic outcomes. Although initially developed for patients with higher grade gynecomastia, the improved visibility and increased patient satisfaction allowed this to become the preferred technique at our institution.