Gynecomastia Treatment Procedure
An estimated 40 – 60% of men are affected by gynecomastia, a condition that causes breast tissue to over-develop and create the appearance of female breasts.
Gynecomastia
Treatment in Reno, Nevada
Gynecomastia may affect only one breast or both, but it often causes affected men to feel self-conscious and avoid situation where they may have to remove their shirt. If nonsurgical attempts to reduce the breast tissue do not work, male breast reduction surgery can be used to correct gynecomastia. At the office Charles P. Virden, MD in Reno, Nevada, men can learn more about their surgical options for gynecomastia. Board-certified plastic and reconstruction surgeon Dr. Charles Virden helps men in Northwest Nevada and Northeast California regain their confidence with male breast reduction surgery.
About Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction Surgery)
Surgery to correct gynecomastia can be performed on healthy, emotionally stable men of any age. The best candidates for surgery have firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body’s new contours. Surgery may be discouraged for obese or overweight men who have not first attempted to correct the problem with exercise or weight loss. Also, individuals who drink alcoholic beverages in excess or smoke marijuana are usually not considered good candidates for surgery. These drugs, along with anabolic steroids, may cause gynecomastia. Therefore, patients are first directed to stop the use of these drugs to see if the breast fullness will diminish before surgery is considered an option.
Ideal Gynecomastia Treatment Candidates
Since excess breast tissue can be caused by medical conditions other than gynecomastia, a doctor should confirm the cause before treatment. Ideal candidates will have:
- A healthy body weight
- Fat and breast tissue that is resistant to diet and exercise
- Good skin elasticity
- Overall good health
What to expect during your Gynecomastia Treatment
Male breast reduction surgery usually involves a combination of surgical tissue removal and liposuction. The plastic surgeon will make an incision (usually around the areola) and remove dense breast tissue with surgical excision. Then the plastic surgeon can remove any excess fat with liposuction to create a smooth contour. After the surgery, patients will have their chest bandaged and in a compression garment that should be worn at all times. Patients should rest and move their upper body as little as possible for at least 3 days. Most patients can return to work in 7 – 10 days and resume low impact exercise in 2 – 3 weeks. The plastic surgeon will go over specific recovery instructions and any prescribed medication.
anticipated results
Results from male breast reduction are usually seen at least 3 months after the surgery when the swelling has subsided. It may take 6 – 12 months for the skin to tighten and form to the new chest shape. The results of male breast reduction surgery will be permanent as long as the patient maintains a healthy, stable weight, but natural signs of aging (like loose skin) will continue.
A Confidently Contoured Chest
lf you avoid activities, like swimming, sports, and exercise because of gynecomastia, schedule a consultation to learn more about male breast reduction surgery and how it can help you. Treating gynecomastia can improve your appearance, confidence, and activity level.