Correction of High-Grade Pseudogynecomastia After Massive Weight Loss: Modified Inferior Dermoglandular Pedicled Transverse Scar Reduction

Abstract

Introduction

Whereas body-contouring surgery after massive weight loss in women receives much attention, little attention has been devoted to accentuating the male physique. Male patients after massive weight loss often suffer from redundant skin and soft tissue in the anterior and lateral chest region, causing various deformities of pseudogynecomastia. The authors present their approach to high-grade pseudogynecomastia correction with preservation of the NAC on an inferior dermoglandular pedicle with transverse scar only closure and without any meaningful liposuction.

Materials and Methods

A description of comprehensive pseudogynecomastia correction with the aforementioned technique followed by review of 58 consecutive patients operated on in our clinic from January 2017 to June 2018. Epidemiological data such as age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), weight loss, and the medical history of each patient were collected. All patients were photo-documented preoperatively and postoperatively in a standard manner. During the operation, weight of resected tissue and operative time were noted.

Results

Fifty-eight patients were operated on in a single stage. In our series, one patient had unilateral partial necrosis on nipple–areola complex, and two patients had minimal to moderate amounts of hematoma which were followed up without intervention. We did not encounter any infection-related complications or skin redundancy in our patients. Out of 58 patients, 55 of all the patients were highly satisfied with the aesthetic results. Three patients were mildly satisfied with the results, but they stress that moderate scar widening was the reason for the displeasure, not the definition of the chest which was deemed as satisfactory like the rest.

Conclusion

Our technique obviates the need for skin resection in a second operation, allows immediate skin recontouring, and provides a viable nipple–areola complex at the desired location. The patient does not have to suffer prolonged stress while awaiting skin retraction and is protected from a second dose of anesthesia and hospitalization.

Level of Evidence IV

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