Circumareolar Skin Reduction versus Long Scar in Surgical Treatment of High-Grade Gynecomastia.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare the surgical treatment of gynecomastia using circumareolar excision versus transverse skin excision.

METHODS

Thirty-six male patients with unilateral or bilateral gynecomastia participated in this prospective randomized study at our institution. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A received circumareolar skin excision, and group B received transverse skin excision. Patients were evaluated for surgical and postoperative complications, patient satisfaction, and cosmetic outcomes.

RESULTS

There were no intraoperative complications or blood transfusions. The average operative time was 150 minutes for group A and 110 minutes for group B. Hospital stays ranged from one to two days. Both groups had a 5.56% incidence of hemostasis-related issues and wound infections. Seromas appeared in 11.11% of cases and resolved spontaneously. Wound dehiscence was observed in 16.67% of group A and 5.56% of group B, with no statistically significant difference. Hypertrophic scars occurred in 16.67% of group B, while none were reported in group A (p = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

The circumareolar technique requires longer surgical time and may lead to a less optimal chest contour. However, it provides superior cosmetic results for the nipple-areola complex. Both techniques demonstrate comparable rates of postoperative complications.