Male breast reduction (or gynecomastia correction) can help men who suffer from overdeveloped or enlarged breast tissue. By surgically removing the excess tissue, Dr. Gotkin gives these men a flatter chest and, often, better self-esteem and self-confidence.
All males undergo breast development during puberty and adolescence. Often, this may be accompanied by some slight pain or tenderness of one or both breasts. This pain and tenderness is normal; however, excessive breast development is not normal and defines the condition of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for women-like breasts. Though this oddly named condition is rarely talked about, it’s actually quite common. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It may affect only one breast or both. Though certain drugs and medical problems have been linked with over-development of the male breast, there is no known cause in the vast majority of cases.
Gynecomastia is physically a benign condition, but the presence of enlarged or overdeveloped breasts can significantly and adversely impact a man’s psychological well-being.
Candidates for male breast reduction are:
Adolescents may be potential candidates for male breast reduction; however, it is wise to wait for the breast development to stabilize. Secondary surgery may be necessary in the future to maintain results if breast development has not stabilized. Male breast reduction can be performed on men of all ages.
Despite its many advantages, this procedure may not be for everyone; especially for men with significant medical conditions. The best way to determine if you are an ideal candidate for male breast reduction is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gotkin at Cosmetique. Come prepared to discuss factors such as your health history, current medications and cosmetic goals.
Male breast reduction is a safe and effective way to reduce excess fat, glandular breast tissue and/or skin of the breasts and restore the breasts to a normal shape and contour. It’s an outpatient procedure that can be performed under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Surgery can be completed using liposuction, excision (surgical removal of tissue), or a combination of both. The method used will depend on the amount of excess fat, glandular breast tissue and skin that requires removal.
In cases where liposuction is performed alone, incisions are very small and will be located near the armpits or at the margin of the areola. When excision is needed, surgical incisions will be placed around the areola or at the natural crease line under the breast. Following the removal of excess tissue and fat, all incisions will be closed with sutures. An elastic compression garment will be placed around the treated area to minimize swelling and discomfort and to facilitate improved healing of the skin.
After surgery, we’ll provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Most patients experience swelling, bruising and discomfort for several days. Compression garments will need to be worn for at least four weeks. Prescription pain medication can help you manage discomfort during recovery. All stitches are generally removed within three weeks.
You will likely resume your normal routine within one week. Strenuous upper body exercise may be restricted for several weeks. The final results of male breast reduction are permanent and will become gradually apparent over the course of several months as swelling begins to subside and scars begin to fade.
Contact our offices in Manhattan or Long Island to schedule a consultation for male breast reduction. During your consultation, we can review before-and-after photos and discuss details such as the cost and expected recovery time.
Call 212.794.4000 today to make an inquiry or schedule a confidential appointment at our Manhattan Office.
For Long Island, please call 516.484.9000.
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