Pain associated with gynecomastia correction

Gynecomastia correction under local anesthesia

In our practice we frequently come across concerns about the pain associated with gynecomastia surgery both during and after the procedure. Thoughts about the pain can lead to a lot of anxiety in those affected by this condition. It may even prevent some individuals from seeking treatment. 


Pain is subjective. Pain is a protective sensation that helps animals avoid injury. Postoperative pain is due to the stimulation of the nerve endings at the operated site. The use of pain medications help reduce the discomfort. Modifications in the surgical technique can contribute to less pain. Gynecomastia surgery is a short stay procedure. Patients can go home without a prolonged inpatient stay. This is made possible due to adequate pain relief with oral medicines.


There are a few reasons for less pain following a gynecomastia correction whn compared to other surgical procedures. These include, 

1. Liposuction and tumescent infiltration. In most cases of gynecomastia correction we carry out liposuction. Liposuction involves instillation of certain drugs at the treated area before evacuation of fat. The infiltration contains local anaesthetic agents that cause pain relief both during the surgery and early postoperative period. Patients usually report soreness at the treated areas and do not require more than an oral pain medication for pain relief. 
2. Smaller incision. Due to use of liposuction, we can treat the residual gland with the help of a smaller skin incision. A smaller skin incision is associated with less pain. 

Most patients do not require more than oral medications for postoperative comfort. This is more so among individuals treated under local anaesthesia. Local anaesthesia helps identify nerve sparing and address it before the completion of the procedure. Nerve sparing my occur when the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. 


Fear about pain can discourage many from getting surgery. But the improvements in anaesthesia and newer surgical technique, lead to a comfortable postoperative period in most individuals. They usually do not require more than a few oral pain medicines in the initial few days following surgery. 
To learn more about gynecomastia, click here.