Reference Rectangle Method for Objective Calculation of Resectable Skin Area in Gynecomastia

Abstract

Background: Many aspects of gynecomastia surgeries lack standardization. One of the debatable issues is the suitable area of skin resection. We suggest an objective method that could help determine the excised skin area on the basis of specific measurements. Moreover, we applied the suggested method to a series of gynecomastia patients and reported the surgical and aesthetic outcome.Patients and Methods: The present prospective study was conducted on 30 patients with bilateral Simon grade III-IV gynecomastia. Reduction mastectomy with liposuction was performed. The resectable skin area was determined using the reference rectangle method.Results: The present study included 30 patients with bilateral grade III-IV gynecomastia. They had an age of 28.1 ± 8.0 years and a duration of illness of 2.8 ± 1.5 years. Operative complications included minimal bleeding [16.7 %] and seroma formation [3.3 %]. Post-operatively, patients were either very satisfied [6.7 %], more than satisfied [20.0 %] or satisfied [73.3 %]. Also, independent observers reported favorable outcome.Conclusion: The reference rectangle method provides an objective and easily applicable method for calculation of resectable skin area in gynecomastia patients with minor complications and favorable aesthetic outcome.