The Role of Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction before a Surgical Excision in the Treatment of Gynecomastia

Kang, Dae Il; Park, Sang Woo; Choi, Jae Hoon

Abstract

PURPOSE
The method of using ultrasound-assisted liposuction and excision of the remaining glandular tissue is the preferred method for treating gynecomastia and is currently used worldwide. Herein, this article described the role of ultrasound-assisted liposuction before a surgical excision in the treatment of gynecomastia. The cosmetic results were objectively evaluated.
METHODS
11 patients (22 breasts) underwent ultrasound-assisted liposuction and suction-assisted lipectomy between April 2007 and January 2009. At the end of the liposuction, the remaining glandular tissue was removed through the incision used for liposuction. We evaluated the cosmetic results using ordinary scale methods on the basis of four categories (recurrence, symmetry, contour irregularity, and scar).
RESULTS
The volume of aspirates ranged between 50 and 200 cc per breast and the average weight of tissue removed by excision was 65g per breast. No complications were recorded. Regarding the cosmetic evaluation, the recurrence, contour irregularity, and scar were excellent, the symmetry was good, and the overall results represented all those cases were mostly excellent.
CONCLUSION
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction has many advantages in the treatment of gynecomastia. When excising the remaining glandular tissue, bleeding is decreased by the use of a tumescent technique. The glandular tissue is easily mobilized and excised after being "morselized" with ultrasound-assisted liposuction. The glandular tissue is simply dissected via the suction surface. Compared the residual mound of glandular tissue beneath the nipple and areola to the periphery, it facilitates precise control of the excision.