Many men consider a sculpted, masculine torso to be the ideal aesthetic and strive to achieve it with diet and exercise. However, a common condition called gynecomastia can obscure a male patient’s attractive chest contour with a layer of excess tissue. Gynecomastia is the accumulation of fatty or glandular tissue in the male breasts, which can produce an irregular or feminine shape. Men who are concerned about the appearance of their chest can have excess breast tissue removed by undergoing gynecomastia surgery.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is usually a benign condition and can affect men of all ages. It can be caused by several factors, such as weight gain, genetics, use of certain substances or medications, or hormonal imbalance. It often results in both emotional and physical discomfort, compromising a man’s quality of life and happiness.
What Is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery is intended for men who struggle with enlarged male breasts and wish to obtain a chiseled and fit chest. Various techniques (including excision, liposuction, or a combination of both) can be utilized to give patients customized effects tailored to their needs and objectives. This procedure takes approximately one to two hours to complete, and patients can typically return home the same day.
Ideal Candidates for Gynecomastia Surgery
The best patients for gynecomastia surgery are men in good health who are displeased with how their chest looks. Ideally, they should have already tried at-home methods of fat reduction, such as consuming a balanced diet and exercising daily. Those with good skin elasticity are also more likely to have an optimal outcome from this procedure.
What to Expect After Gynecomastia Surgery
Most patients feel sore and experience some swelling in the treated area after gynecomastia surgery. A compression garment can help with these side effects. If needed, over-the-counter medication can be taken to alleviate postoperative pain and make the healing process more comfortable.
Results
It may take a few weeks for the skin to heal and adjust to the newly formed shape. Scarring is a possibility after gynecomastia surgery. However, the incisions are carefully created in inconspicuous areas for the most conservative improvement possible. Results can last several years for patients who maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. In some cases, the breasts can enlarge again, particularly for those who experience weight gain or continue to use substances that trigger male breast enlargement.
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery, please schedule your consultation at our Carlsbad office by calling 760-637-5288 or filling out our virtual consultation form.
