Around 310 million major surgeries are performed yearly, with the United States accounting for a substantial share of them (40 to 50 million). These staggering figures underscore the vital significance of surgical treatments in modern healthcare, which address various medical conditions.
Certain procedures have developed as common interventions to treat various medical issues among males. These treatments cover various specializations, providing men with targeted therapies and a higher quality of life.
This article delves into a thorough examination of nine common surgeries performed on men, highlighting the relevance of these treatments and the potential impact on men’s health and well-being. Understanding these common operations, from urological surgery to orthopedic treatments and beyond, helps men to make educated healthcare decisions and embrace a future filled with vitality and health.
- Liposuction
Liposuction is a common cosmetic procedure for both men and women that removes localized fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction is frequently used by males to target regions such as:
- Belly
- Love handles,
- Chest (also known as gynecomastia surgery)
- Flanks.
Liposuction is performed by making tiny incisions near the target region and inserting a thin tube known as a cannula into the fat layer. The surgeon then eliminates the extra fat cells and suctions them out using a regulated back-and-forth motion.
When performed by a certified and experienced plastic surgeon, liposuction for men is typically reliable and effective. It has many advantages, including increased self-confidence and a more proportional body form.
- Prostate Surgery
Prostate surgery is one of the most common procedures performed on males. The prostate gland, positioned directly below the bladder, is an important component of the male reproductive system. Men may develop prostate-related concerns, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer, as they age. Several surgical procedures are available to relieve symptoms and address these conditions, such as:
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): TURP is a popular procedure for treating BPH. A small tube with a camera (resectoscope) is put into the urethra during this procedure to remove extra prostate tissue that is impeding urine flow. TURP improves urinary flow and alleviates BPH-related urinary discomfort.
- Radical Prostatectomy: Radical prostatectomy is a common therapy for prostate cancer. The entire prostate gland, as well as adjacent tissues and, in rare cases, neighboring lymph nodes, are removed during this surgical surgery. It is useful in treating and inhibiting the spread of localized prostate cancer.
- Appendectomy
The appendix is a tiny finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine. Appendicitis is a disorder in which the appendix gets inflamed and infected, causing extreme discomfort and, if ignored, potentially fatal consequences.
The surgical removal of the appendix is known as an appendectomy and is frequently performed as an emergency treatment.
- Hernia Repair Surgery
Hernias are more common in males, and they arise when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak area in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. They can cause discomfort and pain; surgical intervention is usually needed to correct the problem. Hernia procedures are classified into two types:
- Inguinal Hernia Repair: The most prevalent form of hernia in males is an inguinal hernia. The hernia is pushed back into place to avoid recurrence, and the compromised abdominal wall is reinforced with sutures or synthetic mesh.
- Ventral Hernia Repair: Ventral hernias form at a prior surgical incision site and must be repaired to prevent problems. The surgeon puts a mesh over the compromised region to give additional support during ventral hernia repair.
- Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a popular cosmetic surgery that treats drooping, extra skin, and fat deposits around the eyes. The skin surrounding the eyes may lose elasticity as men age, and muscles may weaken, resulting in drooping upper eyelids and puffy bags beneath the eyes. The goal of eyelid surgery is to renew the appearance of the eyes by eliminating extra skin and fat, resulting in a more young and rejuvenated appearance.
- Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a surgical treatment that provides permanent male contraception. The vas deferens, the tubes that deliver sperm from the testicles to the urethra, are cut or closed during the surgery to prevent sperm from entering the semen ejaculated during sexual activity. A vasectomy is a safe and effective choice for men who no longer want to have children.
- Cardiac Operations
Cardiovascular diseases are the largest cause of mortality globally, and males are predisposed to specific heart disorders. Men’s common cardiac operations include:
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): CABG treats coronary artery disease, which occurs when blood vessels feeding the heart narrow or become obstructed. CABG involves using a healthy blood vessel from another body region to bypass the occluded artery, restoring blood flow to the heart.
- Heart Valve Replacement: As men grow older, they may acquire heart valve problems that necessitate valve replacement surgery. Damaged heart valves are replaced with synthetic or biological replacement valves during this treatment.
- Circumcision
Circumcision is a surgical operation in which the foreskin is removed from the male genitalia. It is a popular practice in several cultures and faiths and is also used for medicinal purposes. Male circumcision can lower the incidence of some infections and urinary tract issues.
- Orthopedic Surgeries
Men are more likely to engage in physically demanding activities and sports, which might result in orthopedic injuries that call for surgery. The following are some of the most common orthopedic operations performed on men:
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears are common in male athletes who participate in sports requiring rapid pauses and direction changes. The damaged ligament is replaced with a graft during ACL surgery to stabilize the knee joint.
- Rotator Cuff Repair: Shoulder rotator cuff tears can occur due to repeated motions or severe accidents. The severed tendon is reattached to the bone to restore shoulder function during surgery.
Conclusion
Surgeries are essential in addressing the numerous health conditions that men encounter. They provide effective solutions for improving quality of life and general well-being. While surgical procedures are risky, advances in medical technology and surgical methods continue to improve results and reduce potential risks. As with any medical treatment, men must examine the advantages and disadvantages of surgery with their healthcare practitioners to make informed decisions regarding their specific conditions.
