Male breast reduction is considered the most effective treatment for gynecomastia. The abnormal enlargement of the male breast can occur due to various factors such as hormonal imbalance, heredity, obesity, use of certain drugs, and certain medical conditions. It can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly. Doing chest exercise or losing weight cannot address excessive build-up of male breast tissue, the condition known as gynecomastia. The solution is male breast reduction surgery, which involves removing the excess fat and glandular tissue. Male breast reduction in NYC helps men achieve a firmer, flatter and more masculine chest.
Surgeons in AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery practices in NYC utilize minimally-invasive, advanced technologies such as the BodyTite RFAL (radio-frequency assisted liposuction device) to perform this procedure. These techniques can safely remove excess fat as well as tissue and tighten the skin.
Preparations before male breast reduction
Plastic surgeons in NYC provide patients with detailed guidance before surgery. They will answer any questions you may have and take a detailed medical history. They will also conduct a physical exam to determine whether you are fit for the surgery. If you have heart disease, low blood count, or any other serious medical conditions, you need to get medical clearance from your internist or specialist. A preoperative electrocardiogram (EKG) would be recommended for patients who are older than 45 years or have heart disease. Ensuring that you stay well hydrated before and after the surgery is critical for safe recovery and optimal outcomes.
Important pre-operative considerations for gynecomastia treatment include:
- Avoid sunbathing for two weeks before surgery as tanning the chest skin can potentially increase the risk of permanent scarring.
- Refrain from using tobacco or nicotin eat least four weeks prior to the procedure as nicotine can impair and delay healing.
- Stop all aspirin-containing products, medications that contain blood thinners (Ibuprofen Motrin, Advil etc.), vitamin E, and herbal supplements two weeks prior to surgery. It is advisable to take one multivitamin a day.
- Inform your surgeon about any illness, cold or any skin infection in the chest area which develops within a week of the surgery.
- Submit all requested lab results and physician’s clearances.
- Schedule time off work for nearly one week. Take a break from work for approximately two weeks if your job is labor intensive.
- Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you around-the-clock for 24 hours after procedure.
- Have the recommended surgical chest compression garments ready and bring it with you when you come for the surgery. You will have to wear these after the surgery for the time specified by your surgeon.
- Wear comfortable shirts during the first four weeks following procedure.
- Do all your important chores before your surgery, so that don’t have to worry about taking care of things during your recuperation. After surgery, you will not be allowed to engage in heavy lifting for several weeks.
- Avoid removing chest hair for two weeks before and six weeks after surgery.
Choosing a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing the male breast reduction surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. A reliable surgeon will educate you on benefits and risks associated with the surgery, and guide you in taking an informed decision. In leading NYC practices, surgeons use state-of-the art 3D simulation technologies such as Axis Three and VECTRA 3D imaging systems to help patients visualize their results. In an AAAASF-accredited practice, you can expect end-to-end care and support all through the treatment, right from the initial consultation up to full recovery.