Overly developed male breasts or gynecomastia is a common occurrence in men. It can affect men of all ages – adolescents as well as in middle-aged and older men. Most boys tend to experience some changes to their breasts during puberty, which typically resolves in 2 or 3 years. Male breast reduction in NYC or gynecomastia treatment is a viable option to help men achieve a natural looking chest and feel better about their appearance.
NYC plastic surgeons utilize safe and effective minimally-invasive liposuction techniques to address excessive build-up of male breast tissue and fat. However, many men considering the treatment are unaware about what the procedure actually involves. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about gynecomastia and male breast reduction:
- What causes gynecomastia?
Male breast enlargement occurs due to hormonal changes, heredity, obesity, or the use of certain drugs. One or both breasts can be affected, sometimes unevenly. Gynecomastia can occur at any stage of a man’s life, but the causes of the condition and recommended treatment options may differ based on the patient’s age. - What is male breast reduction?
Male breast reduction surgery involves removing unwanted fatty and glandular tissue, and even skin, from the breasts. Gynecomastia treatment is an ideal option for men who feel self-conscious about their appearance. The procedure results in a chest that is flatter, firmer, and better contoured. - Who is an ideal candidate for the treatment?
However, any man who is concerned about his excessively large breasts is a good candidate for male breast reduction. Candidates should be over 18 years of age and breast growth must have stabilized. If male breast reduction is performed before growth is complete, the breasts may continue to grow, which will affect the results.Candidates who are overweight will be advised a proper diet and exercise regimen to reach the ideal weight. If the overdevelopment of the breasts does not resolve despite attaining a healthy weight, the surgeon will most likely recommend breast reduction surgery. Patients should be in good health and free of any life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing. Those who smoke should be ready to quit. It is also important for candidates to have realistic expectations about the outcome.
- What does the procedure involve?
Leading NYC surgeons use advanced FDA-approved liposuction technologies such as BodyTite RFAL (radiofrequency assisted) or Smartlipo Triplex (laser assisted) to perform the procedure. These procedures involve removing excess glandular tissue and fat, and tightening loose skin. The treatment may also include improving the size and position of the areola.The liposuction procedure involves making involves a small incision on each side of the chest to remove the excess tissue. In the BodyTite procedure, RFAL energy passes from an internal cannula to an external electrode, targeting the adipose tissue and fatty areas. The soft tissues get heated and the device aspirates the liquefied fat and coagulates the tissues. The RF energy tightens the skin quickly and promotes tissue coagulation, allowing the surgeon to sculpt the chest effectively. The Smartlipo laser liposuction procedure combines three laser wavelengths (1440, 1064 and 1320 nm) to provide excellent tissue coagulation and skin tightening effects and result in a more masculine looking chest.
If the breast tissue is removed surgically, the incisions are usually around the nipples or under the armpit in a way that they are not noticeable. Minimally-invasive treatment involves less scarring, bleeding, swelling, and bruising than traditional liposuction.
- Will the breasts grow back after gynecomastia treatment?
When male breast reduction is performed correctly on the right candidate, the results of the treatment would be almost permanent in most cases. However, lifestyle following the surgery and other factors could make breast tissue overgrowth recur. - What type of anesthesia is used?
Minimally-invasive liposuction treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. Patients remain awake throughout the procedure and are usually allowed to go home the same day. - What are the preparations before male breast reduction?
Plastic surgeons in NYC take a detailed medical history of the candidate and will conduct a physical exam to determine whether you are fit for the surgery. A preoperative electrocardiogram (EKG) would be recommended for patients who are older than 45 years or have heart disease. Patients need to obtain medical clearance from the physician or specialists that they are fit to undergo the procedure. This would involve undergoing a physical and getting lab tests done. Patients will also be advised to quit smoking at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery, stop taking medications with blood thinners, and avoid tanning. - What does recovery after male breast reduction involve?
Recovery after minimally-invasive gynecomastia surgery is relatively painless and brief. Patients may experience numbness, tingling, burning, “crawling”, or other peculiar sensations around the surgical area during the recovery phase, but these symptoms will fade overtime. Most patients usually resume work 2-3 days after the procedure but are advised to strenuous activity for two weeks. Full healing usually takes six weeks. A compression garment should be worn over the chest for four weeks to treat post-operative swelling and decrease the chances for blood and fluid collection. - When results will be visible?
The actual time when desired final results would be visible would vary based on individual considerations and the technique used. However, typically, the initial improvement is seen within 3 weeks after the procedure and the final results could take about 4 to 6 months. A noticeable difference can be seen in most areas except very fibrous areas in the initial weeks.
If you are planning to get male breast reduction in NYC, choose a surgeon who has extensive experience performing the procedure. The right surgeon will be ready to answer all your questions related to the treatment and guide you in taking an informed decision. In an AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery practice, you can expect adherence to the highest standards of safety and care.