Understanding the Age Limit for Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery in Islamabad is also referred to as male breast reduction. It is the excessive growth of breast tissues in males. Hormonal imbalance, some drugs, heredity, or other aspects can result in gynecomastia (this condition). Patients may experience discomfort, pain, and serious psychological issues despite the condition not being considered dangerous. It is for this reason that the question arises What is the age limit for gynecomastia surgery? In this blog, you will get to know the age limit and procedures of this surgery.
Minimum Age Requirement for Gynecomastia Surgery:
- The risks involved in gynecomastia surgery require that surgery be performed in patients who are at least 18 years old.
- This is because, in most instances, the development of male breasts is likely to be complete by that time.
- Before reaching puberty, hormonal balances allow surgery to be done without the problem resurfacing.
- In such cases, a proper consultation by a qualified plastic surgeon and a Pediatric Endocrinologist is critical in directing one on the most appropriate action.
Why 18 is Considered the Minimum Age:
A male body typically undergoes most of its developmental processes by the age of 18. During puberty, hormonal changes leading to the formation of gynecomastia diminish at this age thus making it unlikely to occur. In most cases, surgeries performed at this stage will give a more permanent result than surgeries performed in other stages. Also, the psychological maturity that is likely to enable one to appreciate the ramifications of the procedure.
Upper Age Limit for Gynecomastia Surgery:
- There is no upper limit for the gynecomastia surgery but still, the age factor matters for each candidate.
- Candidates who are above a certain age have their health assessed before undergoing the procedure; age plays a role in this process.
- But the most important one is that the person should be in good general health without uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or blood clotting problems.
- In addition, there will be variations in skin elasticity and wound healing among elderly patients.
- Older adults are at increased risk for developing complications that may arise during or after surgery.
- Patients must undergo an extensive clinical assessment to deem surgery feasible for them.
Factors Influencing Eligibility for Gynecomastia Surgery:
- A physical check-up is important to screen out diseases that would make the surgery too dangerous.
- Individuals with stable health conditions, no significant risk factors, and a healthy lifestyle are most suitable for it.
- Potential patients need to have a down-to-earth approach to the surgery’s prospects.
- There may be some changes that may occur in the patient’s weight before the surgery which can make a difference.
- The candidates should have stable weights for the past six months before the procedure.
- Tobacco use affects the surgery process and healing period, and patients may face several problems.
- Surgeon advise patients to stop smoking at least two weeks before and one week after the surgery.
- Specifically, past and present history of surgeries, medicines, allergies, and, the history of family members with breast cancer illness are vital in the eligibility criteria.
Considerations for Younger Candidates:
Children with severe gynecomastia that causes significant embarrassment below the age of 18 can consider undergoing surgery early to alleviate their embarrassment. The child should be allowed to resolve natural issues with caution as they grow through puberty. This should involve several healthcare specialties, including specialists in endocrinology, plastic surgery, and psychiatry, in general, to determine the need for and feasibility of intervention in young people.
Final Thoughts:
Gynecomastia surgery provides a direct solution to the dilemma of enlarged breast glands among men while improving the appearance and mental health of those who undergo the surgery. It is common practice to not allow anyone below the age of 18 to undergo this surgery but in some cases, this can be flexible with ample scrutiny. There is no upper age limit but one must be in good health to get the procedure done. If you plan to get this surgery done, the best clinic in Islamabad is SKN Cosmetics where we have the best Plastic surgeon Dr Naveed Azhar. He will surely tell you the right time to undergo gynecomastia surgery and achieve the best results. Some of the risks involved include age restrictions and other factors related to gynecomastia surgery, patients can make proper decisions for their health and looks.
