ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) is currently widely used to reduce localized fat. A novel Nd:YAG laser that uses a wavelength of 1,444 nm, which is better absorbed by fat, has recently been introduced. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of 1,444-nm Nd:YAG LAL for the treatment of gynecomastia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirteen Korean male patients (20-28 years, mean age 23 years) diagnosed with gynecomastia were enrolled in this study. All patients were treated by LAL with 1,444-nm Nd:YAG laser (100 µs pulse width, 40 Hz frequency, 300 mJ pulse energy and 12 W power with continuous emission) after tumescent anesthetic infiltration and were then evaluated. Outcome was assessed using the following 4 methods: (1) clinical assessment with photographs obtained before and 12 weeks after LAL treatment, (2) comparison of pre- and postoperative patient chest circumferences, (3) computed tomography (CT) scans to evaluate changes in breast thickness and (4) a patient satisfaction survey at the end of the study. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, most patients (84.5%) showed an improvement greater than 50%. Mean chest circumference was significantly reduced from 109.6 ± 8.2 to 101.2 ± 4.4 cm 12 weeks after LAL (p < 0.001). CT scans showed a significant reduction in mean breast thickness from 22.7 ± 3.2 to 15.6 ± 2.4 mm (p = 0.016). Side effects (pain, edema, numbness and ecchymosis) were minimal and disappeared shortly after the first manifestation. CONCLUSION: Gynecomastia can be safely treated with 1,444-nm Nd:YAG LAL to reduce fatty tissue and total breast volume.
