Overdeveloped or enlarged breast tissue in men is a condition called gynecomastia, and it’s more common than you may think. It can happen at any age due to hormonal changes, heredity, the use of certain drugs, and obesity. It goes without saying men suffering from gynecomastia experience significant anxiety and self-consciousness. The Longwood Plastic Surgery team is experienced in treating all aspects of gynecomastia with the compassion and grace you would expect from a renowned cosmetic surgery practice.
*Individual Results May Vary
How Does Gynecomastia Surgery Work?
Glandular and fatty breast tissue responsible for gynecomastia is removed through a male breast reduction procedure designed to flatten and firm the pectorals and sculpt a more masculine chest. In some cases, the nipples may have stretched or the skin may have sagged, so the size and position of the nipples can be altered as well as excess skin removed. Typically, the procedure is performed with liposuction through small incisions around the areola, and the breast tissue is suctioned out through a cannula. Larger incisions are necessary for the removal of excess skin.
Am I a Good Candidate?
In some cases, gynecomastia surgery is covered under insurance if done for medical reasons, such as the breast tissue being painful, tender, and causing emotional distress. Ideal candidates are healthy adults with realistic expectations for the outcome. Longwood Plastic Surgery begins the process with a thorough consultation to create a tailored treatment plan for you.
What is the Procedure Like?
Your LPS surgeon will perform your gynecomastia surgery in our accredited surgical suite on an outpatient basis so you can recover in the comfort of your home. Your breast tissue is removed according to your personalized treatment plan, and you’ll awaken with a compression garment to reduce swelling and preserve your surgeon’s chest sculpting. Your recovery will continue for 2-4 weeks, during which time you should limit your range of motion and avoid raising your arms above shoulder height. Avoid lifting for more than 20 lbs for 4-6 weeks. As long as your job is not strenuous, you should be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks. Pain is managed with medication and cold compresses, and you should be up on your feet in 1-3 days to keep blood circulating.
What Results Can I Expect?
Most often, your results will be immediate. Your chest will be smooth and flat, and your excess breast tissue is gone. There will be some swelling that will temporarily disguise your final chest contours, but this should reduce enough in 2 weeks that you’ll be able to tell how well the procedure worked. Breast tissue isn’t the same as fatty tissue, so your results should be permanent unless your gynecomastia is related to a hormone imbalance that hasn’t also been corrected. With a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutrient-dense diet and exercise, you can enjoy your results for a lifetime.
The embarrassment and insecurity excess breast tissue can cause in men does not have to define your life. At Longwood Plastic Surgery, our high standard of care is elevated by our compassion. Our expertise in cosmetic surgery is unparalleled in the Brookline and Greater Boston areas. Our board-certified physicians have over 40 years of combined experience, and our philosophy is to treat the whole person in comfort where our patients can align their outer appearance with their inner selves. If you’re a man bothered by excess breast tissue that does not match your true self, call us today to set up an appointment.
Take the Next Step
Interested in learning about gynecomastia surgery? Schedule your consultation with Longwood Plastic Surgery today by calling our Brookline office at (617) 383-6250. We serve the Brookline and Greater Boston area with distinction.