Surgical treatment of gynaecomastia. Five years' experience with liposuction

Since liposuction became part of our surgical regimen in 1988, we have operated on 67 patients for gynaecomastia during the five year period 1988-1992. Sixty two of the patients were seen at an extra follow up 4-59 months (means 29 months) postoperatively. Compared to studies that did not include liposuction as part of the operation, we found a lower incidence of postoperative complications and a higher degree of patient satisfaction. Preoperative distinction between adipose and glandular tissue is difficult, and we therefore consider that liposuction should be used during the first part of the operation in nearly all cases of gynaecomastia. Regardless the amount of fat, tunnelling and suction are beneficial, because they help to refine the peripheral contour and define the glandular tissue. Liposuction seems to help the skin to contract, and skin resections are rarely indicated.