Gynecomastia surgery is a condition when a man’s breast becomes overdeveloped or enlarged. It can happen at any age, but not limited to the following: hormonal changes, heredity, obesity, and drug use. Gynecomastia can impair an individual’s self-confidence as well as cause discomfort and emotional strain. At times, gynecomastia can even prevent some men from enjoying certain physical activities as well as intimate situations to hide their condition.
To correct gynecomastia, the technical term is called reduction mammaplasty which reduces breast size, flattens and enhances the contours of the chest; in some cases, the weights of excess breast tissue may cause the breasts to sag and stretch the areola. In these cases, the position and size of the areola can be surgically improved upon.
Generally, male breast reduction surgery can significantly alter a man’s self-image as well as reduce feelings of anxiety when they take their shirt off.
Women often come immediately to mind once we think about plastic surgery. However, numerous men are self-conscious about their appearance, and none much more than men who feel that their breasts are big. These guys may feel like their total lifestyle is restricted, especially when they go to a warmer climate and or are on a vacation where they want to swim, surf or sunbathe. Having woman-like breasts usually becomes a self-image situation and can affect a male’s self-confidence.
What Can You Do About Gynecomastia?
Cosmetic surgery provides several solutions to those suffering from gynecomastia. The treatment of gynecomastia has changed a good deal in the past several years. Before surgical removal of the extra tissue was the standard, now, many guys are treated with outstanding results and have virtually no scarring because of the advanced liposuction techniques used, which reflect better on the contours of the skin as well as the contours of the chest wall. Gynecomastia is a very serious issue that impacts both the young and old, therefore it is amazing that there’s a cosmetic surgical procedure available that will drastically change these people’s lives.
A Few Facts…
You might think gynecomastia is a rare condition by the name alone. It’s extremely common among men of all ages. Here are some facts you should know:
- It can be excess localized fat
- It can be excess glandular tissue development
- It can be excess breast skin
- 40–60% of men are affected by some level of gynecomastia according to the American Society Of Plastic Surgeons
- It can occur after puberty and with excessive weight gain
Liposuction & Gynecomastia
When using liposuction, treatment for gynecomastia can be very simple. A small incision is made under each breast where excess breast tissue and fat is suctioned from under the skin. If a larger procedure is required, then an incision on the chest wall will be made as well.
Is best performed on…
- Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments
- Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions can impair healing
- Non-smokers and no drug users
- Men with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving the physical symptoms of gynecomastia
If you are a healthy male who is close to their ideal weight, then this is a good option for you. Any male who is taking illegal drugs, as well as steroids, is not a good candidate for this type of surgery.
Is Surgery Right For Me?
Yes if…
- You are physically healthy and of relatively normal weight
- You have realistic expectations
- Your breast development has stabilized
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large
Adolescents may benefit from surgery, although secondary procedures may be needed in the future should breast development continue.
During Your Consultation Be Prepared To Discuss The Following…
- Your surgical goals
- Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
- Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and recreational drug use (including steroids)
- Previous surgeries
Dr. Hardaway May Also Ask For The Following…
- Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
- Perform diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of gynecomastia
- Examine your breasts and may take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, and placement of your nipples and areolas
- Take photographs for your medical records
- Discuss your options
- Recommend a course of treatment
- Discuss likely outcomes of gynecomastia correction and any risks or potential complications
- Discuss the use of anesthesia during your procedure
Prior to surgery you may be asked to…
- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
- Stop smoking
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
The overall success and safety of your surgery largely depends on how open you are during your consultation. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room. Recovery can vary depending on the type of surgery you are having done, which will all be explained to you prior to.
Usually a patient can resume normal activities within a week or two after the surgery. Any kind of heavy lifting should be delayed for about 4-6 weeks. It is also important to avoid the sun as sunlight can permanently affect the skin’s pigmentation and cause it to darken.
As men age, fat tends to gather around the abdomen, the breast area, known as gynecomastia, and the flanks, or “love handles”. Male liposuction is a way to shape and contour the body, producing dramatic changes in a small amount of time by removing stubborn fatty deposits under the skin. In men, the most common areas of liposuction are the lower back (love handles), abdomen, chest, and chin.
Vaser liposuction (ultrasonic) and Smartlipo (laser) are types of liposuction that use heat to liquify the fat prior to removal. The heat promotes collagen production and skin tightening.
Although the basis for liposuction is removal of fat deposits, male liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. If you are planning on losing a large amount of weight, you should talk to your doctor about the best time to have the procedure. Usually, this is when you are close to your weight loss goals, or you have already achieved them. Dr. Hardaway will help you find the ideal time and procedure plan that works best for you.
Although the basis for liposuction is removal of fat deposits, liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. If you are planning on losing a large amount of weight, you should talk to your doctor about the best time to have the procedure. Usually, this is when you are close to your weight loss goals, or you have already achieved them. Dr. Hardaway will help you find the ideal time and procedure plan that works best for you.
Is there a male alternative?
Non-invasive body contouring is a non-surgical procedure that can be used to sculpt parts of the body. Coolsculpting and Sculpsure are examples of non-invasive body contouring. These procedures are not a substitute for liposuction, but can be effective in decreasing fat in specific areas. These results are less effective than liposuction. Male liposuction offers more dramatic and longer-lasting results than non-invasive body contouring procedures. However, non-invasive body contouring can be a good option for those who are hesitant about surgery, or want a less invasive procedure.
How much does liposuction cost?
The cost of liposuction varies from patient to patient. Prices vary depending on the intensity of the procedure, as well as the number of areas liposuctioned. Liposuction is not normally covered by insurance. Dr. Hardaway will discuss pricing at your consultation.
How is male liposuction performed?
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be able to go home after surgery. The patient is under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation (twilight anesthesia) for the procedure. Small incisions are made near the areas of treatment and a very thin tube called a cannula is inserted under the skin to reach fat deposits. The cannula is attached to a vacuum, and the doctor will move the tube under the skin, to suction out fatty deposits. Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, so hospitalization is not required. Patients should plan on having someone to drive them home from the procedure.
What are the risks ?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with liposuction. The most common risks include bruising and swelling after the procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection if not taken care of properly. Blood clots and nerve damage are other risks from the procedure, but are uncommon. Strictly following the doctor’s instructions for aftercare can help decrease the chance of these risks.
How long do the results last?
Results from male liposuction lasts for many years, as the fat is removed from the body. However, natural processes such as weight gain, aging, and other lifestyle factors, including genetics, can cause variations. It is important to maintain a stable weight and to exercise after surgery to ensure the longevity of the results. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen will help the results last longer. If you are in the process of losing weight, it is best to be near or at your weight loss goal before having the procedure done. Following the doctor’s specific instructions after surgery will help the results from your procedure last as long as possible. This will ensure the best and longest lasting results from the procedure.
Who is a good candidate?
Someone is an ideal candidate for male liposuction if:
- They are looking for a procedure that will remove excess fat, as well help shape the contours of the body.
- They are generally in good health.
- They do not smoke or drink excessively.
- They do not have any medical conditions that can impair or slow the healing process.
- They have realistic goals for the outcome of the surgery. Dr. Hardaway will work with patients to determine which path will be best to meet their needs.