How many people went to their GP frist?

[karl_82]

Hi guys!

Just wondering how many people went to their gp before surgery and how many just skipped it and went straight ahead?

There is one big reason i think i should see him and thats to find out if the gyne/fat would come back. Is it very uncommon for it to return after surgery?

can i also ask what questions i should be asking him? i haven't been to see a doctor in years


cheers

[phantom]

I'd say the majority of guys go to their GP first.  This is important to rule out any underlying hormonal causes which could prove significant in future.

Go to you GP and tell him or her of your concerns regarding your chest and how it impacts your life psychologically and socially.  He or she will probably want to see your chest to gain a better appreciation.  Assuming your GP has some understanding of the condition, they will probably refer you to and endocrinologist (hormone specialist) or a urologist to run some tests.  For most, the results are usually negative and then you can decide where you want to go if gynaecomastia is formally diagnosed.

If for any reason, your GP does not refer you, ask why not.  Tell your GP that it's your understanding that there is a risk that if you had surgery, there are circumstances in which breast tissue can grow back (although this is rare) and you want to rule out this possibility before electing for surgery.  If after that your GP does not refer, I'd seriously consider getting a second opinion with another GP, which you are entitled to.  I'd be VERY surprised if you didn't get a referral after this.  Two things may result in non-referral.  1. the GP does not understand the condition.  2. the GP does not think you have significant breast tissue to categorise you as having gynaecomastia.

If and when you decide to go for surgery (especially if you go private) keep your GP informed.  You will probably be the first male chest sculpture patiet they have seen!  It also means that in the unlikely event of complications post-surgery, your GP will already know who you are and what you have been through.  And as this proceudure becomes more common, your GP will be better positioned to answer questions for future patients (your GP would never identify you to other patients).

You may have to wait up to around three months to see the endo or urologist, which in the grand scheme of things is not too long to wait.  In that time you can research surgeons if you want to go private and even get a consultation or two, or three with a reputable surgeon.  If you can go the NHS route, it could take anything from three more months to get the surgery, but more usually around a year to eighteen months.

Let us know how you get on or have any more questions.

Hope that helps.