Male Breast Reduction in NYC – Frequently Asked Questions

Overly developed male breasts or gynecomastia is a common concern affecting 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. However, in some cases, the condition persists, causing excessive build-up of tissue and fat. Gynecomastia treatment in NYC is a viable option to help men address the condition and achieve a natural looking chest.

Some question About Gynecomastia Treatment in NYC

NYC plastic surgeons utilize safe and effective minimally-invasive liposuction techniques to perform male breast reduction. The procedure can effectively resolve excessive male breast tissue and fat. However, many men considering the treatment are unaware about what the procedure actually involves. Before undergoing this procedure, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of what to expect and to address any concerns you may have.

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 surgery?

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?

Men who are concerned about their excessively large breasts are good candidates 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) to perform the procedure. These minimally-invasive techniques can remove the excess glandular tissue and fat, and also tighten 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 and using laser or radiofrequency energy to liquefy and remove the excess tissue. 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 are usually permanent. However, adopting a healthy  lifestyle following the surgery is important to prevent breast tissue overgrowth from recurring.

• 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.

• How do you prepare for male breast reduction surgery?

Patients need to obtain medical clearance from their physician or specialist that they are fit to undergo the procedure. This would involve undergoing a physical and getting lab tests done. A preoperative electrocardiogram (EKG) would be recommended for patients who are older than 45 years or have heart disease. 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.

• How long will the surgery and recovery take?

The procedure typically takes one to two hours. After the treatment, you will need to remain in the facility for three to four hours. Depending on the kind of surgery you had, it could take you three to ten days to get back to your regular schedule.

• Will there be scarring after the treatment?

Risks of scarring are low with minimally-invasive treatment. The small incisions stay hidden in chest’s natural curves. Any scars around the areola and around the lowest part of the breast should be barely apparent because they blend in with your natural skin tone.

• When can I resume workouts?

Don’t strain your upper body and avoid doing a lot of exercise in the first two to four weeks. By the third week, patients are typically cleared by the surgeon to begin modest cardio. During the recovery phase, follow your surgeon’s instructions precisely, including when you can resume your full-body workouts. You can take short walks to increase blood circulation to quicken the healing process.

• What are some ways to keep my results after surgery?

Male breasts might reappear as a result of weight increase, using specific drugs or substances, and other circumstances. In order to preserve your results, it’s critical to lead a healthy lifestyle. Eat more foods high in protein and fiber and abstain from smoking and drinking.

Lifestyle changes such as weight loss and regular exercise can be effective in reducing gynecomastia, especially if the condition is caused by obesity or excess fat tissue. However, if you cannot achieve the desired results with exercise and diet alone, getting treatment is the best solution.

If you are planning to get gynecomastia treatment 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.