Male Breast Reduction

Gynecomastia is a medical condition in which male breasts are enlarged; it is often induced through genetics. For those who wish to correct this condition with surgery, gynecomastia surgery is becoming increasingly common. Some men feel self-conscious about this condition and believe that their chest looks more feminine because of it. This condition can occur in men of any age and it is not just genetics. Enlarged male breasts can also occur due to significant weight gain due to a medical condition or lifestyle habits. Gynecomastia can occur because of drug use or hormonal changes as well.

It is not uncommon for men with this condition to experience depression or other emotional distress because of gynecomastia, and many may not even know that there is a solution. Men may take extra steps to avoid exposing their chest, either in outdoor activities where men are typically shirtless and even in intimate relations. This can lead to strained relationships and a diminished body image and self-esteem. Gynecomastia surgery can also be called reduction mammoplasty, and it is crucial to understand the risks and rewards associated with this medical procedure.

The gynecomastia surgery aims to remove excess skin and fat in the breasts as well as engage in chest contouring for a more structured and defined appearance. The result is a more masculine appearance of the chest muscles and may have many emotional benefits as well. Men may feel an increase in confidence because of their new look, and may feel more in control of their physique. Good candidates for this surgery are of good general health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations of what they will look and feel like after the surgery.

The gynecomastia surgery should be performed by a licensed and experienced plastic surgeon in order to achieve the most effective and realistic results. Each surgery should be catered to the individual candidate, as men with gynecomastia may have the condition to varying degrees. Male breast sizes may differ depending on individual weight and body type, and the surgery should, therefore, reflect the individual’s needs.

Once the gynecomastia surgery is completed, the plastic surgeon will implement drainage tubes under the skin in order to drain any excess fluid or blood that results from the procedure. The patient’s chest will be wrapped in bandages in order to support the chest and keep swelling under control. The patient will likely be prescribed some medication by the plastic surgeon in order to minimize infection and address pain and soreness. The gynecomastia surgery patient will wear compression garments after the surgery. Again, the point of this is to control swelling and support the sensitive area that underwent the surgery.

The patient should expect to experience soreness for several weeks following the surgery. He will likely be advised to avoid rigorous physical activity for some time after the procedure in order to allow the body to heal and to not strain the muscles. You can expect to experience moderate to severe bruising, given the nature of the surgery and the sensitivity of your skin. This should reduce significantly during the first few days following the surgery and diminish almost completely over the next few weeks.

The plastic surgeon will typically recommend that the compression garments are worn upwards of one week following the surgery. This is dependent upon the patient’s reaction to the procedure and how much bleeding and swelling occurred. The patient will have sutures around the incision sites, and they are typically removed at the plastic surgeon’s office within a week of the procedure being completed.

The first two to three days following any medical procedure are typically the most crucial. The recovery period of the gynecomastia procedure is no different: the first 48-72 hours after the surgery are when the patient is most sensitive. Any movement should be very limited in order to avoid damaging the sensitive skin and tissues that underwent the surgery. Excessive movement and rigorous activity, including even mild exercise, is not recommended. Any movements involving the arm should be taken with extra care, as the muscles and tendons may pull on the sensitive chest area. Weightlifting and other arm workouts should be avoided until at least one month following the gynecomastia procedure.

Some patients who undergo the gynecomastia procedure may experience loss of sensation in the surgical site. This should diminish within a year and is typically not permanent. Any concerns you experience during your recovery should be discussed with your plastic surgeon.

The results of the procedure to address gynecomastia are intended to be permanent. This is often contingent upon the patient maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical exercise to avoid significant weight gain. It will also be important for the patient to be cognizant of any effects that medication he takes in the future may have on his body or weight gain. This includes steroids that are typically used for athletic gain as they may affect the results of the gynecomastia surgery.

Men who undergo the gynecomastia surgery may feel more confident about their appearance and a restored sense of their masculinity. Often men with gynecomastia feel self-conscious about the way they look because their enlarged breasts may appear to be a feminine characteristic. This procedure is becoming increasingly common and is very effective at addressing the underlying issue. Not only will men experience a physical benefit in the appearance of their chest, with more contouring muscles and tightened skin, but they will experience emotional benefits in the form of increased self-esteem.

If you have gynecomastia and suffer physical or emotional distress due to the condition, it is advised that you consult with a licensed and experienced plastic surgeon who may be able to help you get the body you want.