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Many men struggle with overdeveloped or enlarged breasts caused by hormonal imbalances. This is a breast enlargement condition called gynecomastia. The excess breast tissue can be the result of some medications, a hormonal imbalance, or genetics. Excessive alcohol use, tobacco use, marijuana use, and anabolic steroids can also lead men to develop male breast enlargement. That said, gynecomastia is not associated with male breast cancer. Learn about gynecomastia treatment and decide if it is right for you.
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Enlarged male breasts can cause physical as well as emotional discomfort. Surgical reduction of one or both breasts may result in a more masculine contour of the upper body and a better self-image. Surgery may remove excess fat or glandular breast tissue and may involve removing excess skin in some patients. There are several techniques available to treat gynecomastia with male breast reduction or chest contouring for men. The method used depends upon the amount of glandular tissue and excess skin. The surgery is performed with you under general anesthesia, typically at an outpatient surgery center.
Candidates for Gynecomastia Surgery
Candidates for gynecomastia surgery include men whose enlarged breasts cannot be addressed through alternative medical treatments. Patients must be in generally good health and have realistic expectations of what the surgery will accomplish. The best way to determine candidacy for surgery is through an in-depth consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Young.
Gynecomastia Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery entirely eliminates excess breast tissue in men.
During the male breast reduction surgery, excess fat and glandular tissue are removed from the chest to restore a natural-looking and masculine appearance. The procedure eliminates the fat obscuring pectoral muscles to create a toned, well-defined upper-body physique. Frequently, the reduction can be done using only liposuction. However, liposuction for gynecomastia works best if the breasts are not very glandular (firm) and you have minimal excess skin. If the tissue is glandular in nature, a small incision along the lower border of the areola (dark skin around the nipple) can be used to excise the glandular tissue. If a lot of excess skin is present, larger incisions will be necessary to remove the loose skin and excess breast tissue through surgical excision.
Gynecomastia Recovery and Results
Low Activity
2-6 weeks
Once fat and tissue have been removed, they cannot come back. However, maintaining your results will require some level of dedication on your part.
To maintain male breast reduction results, you must adopt a healthy lifestyle, focusing on getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of intense aerobic exercise weekly. Weight training can also be helpful for both maintaining and enhancing results.
You will also need to make healthy dietary choices to maintain gynecomastia surgery results. If you struggle with this, it can be a good idea to work with a nutritionist after male breast reduction surgery to discover healthful foods that you find appetizing.
Day of Surgery
After your surgery, you will spend 1-2 hours in the recovery room. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home. Sleep with several pillows behind you to keep your head and chest elevated. A compression vest will be placed over the chest area to help reduce swelling. Drain tubes may be placed on each side. Ice packs may be used during the first 24 hours if you wish.
Day 1 After Surgery
It is expected to have drainage on your garment. Maintain a daily record of output from each drain. Do as little as possible around your house. Lift nothing over 5-10 pounds.
Days 2-7 After Surgery
Shower on day two unless a bolster is covering your nipples. If a bolster is present, do not get wet; a sponge bath will be necessary. A compression shirt can be worn while cleaning the surgical garment. Gynecomastia compression garments are worn 24/7 until instructed otherwise.
The chest will be swollen and may have some areas of bruising. You may gradually increase your activity but do not bend over and lift over 10 pounds. You will be asked to come to the office about seven days after your surgery for suture removal. Do not drive as long as you are taking pain pills.
After First Week
Gynecomastia surgery recovery time varies for each patient. During this time, Pain and swelling continue to improve. Some people feel up to working and doing light activities. Gentle sexual activity may be resumed. You may begin cardio at two weeks if the arms are not involved.
After First Month
After this visit, you will have no restrictions after six weeks. This will be determined according to the extent of your surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
Advanced Cosmetic Surgery welcomes patients from Leawood and the Missouri and Kansas areas of Kansas City. If you are considering gynecomastia surgery in Leawood, KS, call 913-341-2188 for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Should I Expect at the Consultation?
The first step in having this surgery is the initial consultation. During this meeting we will discuss your condition as well as any other medical conditions and medicines that might affect the surgery. The different options for male breast reduction surgery will be discussed, as well as possible complications.
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What Can I Do to Prepare for Surgery?
- Do not smoke for two weeks before and after your surgery.
- Avoid medications that can cause bleeding (aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Nuprin, etc) for about 10 days before the surgery.
- Arrange for help or special care following surgery.
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Is Gynecomastia Surgery Painful?
Male breast reduction is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on factors unique to the procedure. You will not feel anything during surgery.
Some soreness, discomfort, tenderness, and swelling are to be expected in the days following surgery. These can be mitigated with OTC medications, such as ibuprofen, the use of a compression garment, and keeping your incisions dry and clean. During your time in our care, we will provide you with all of the information you need to make sure your recovery process is as simple and comfortable as possible.
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Can I Combine Gynecomastia With Other Procedures?
Gynecomastia can be combined with additional male plastic surgery procedures. Common combinations include liposuction, abdominoplasty, and body lift procedures. Combining procedures is not always necessary, but it is always an option. During your initial consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, we will listen to your concerns and provide information about all of the procedures that may help you reach your goals.
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How much does gynecomastia surgery cost?
The cost of gynecomastia surgery varies, depending on the specific procedures used and how long the surgery takes. The cost of your procedure will be discussed in detail at your consultation with Dr. Young.
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Can I receive non-surgical gynecomastia treatment?
Some people can improve their gynecomastia symptoms with diet and exercise, but enlarged breasts cannot be removed without surgery. This is because glandular tissue, not fat, is the primary cause of gynecomastia.
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How can I find the best gynecomastia surgeon in Kansas City?
It’s important to find a knowledgeable and experienced surgeon to ensure a safe procedure and the best possible results. Reading patient reviews, researching your surgeon’s educational background, and looking at before-and-after photographs can help you make an informed decision about the right surgeon for your gynecomastia treatment.
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