Gynecomastia

MALE BREAST REDUCTION – GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY AT AW PLASTIC SURGERY

The presence of excess breast tissue can be very frustrating for a man to deal with. Though conventional wisdom would have us believe that this problem can be corrected with diet and exercise, this isn’t always the case. Many men struggle with some degree of breast enlargement (gynecomastia) regardless of how much they train. Dr. Anthony Wilson performs male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, to help men in this situation achieve lean, well-defined chest contours. 

WHAT CAUSES MALE BREAST ENLARGEMENT?

Male breast enlargement does not necessarily indicate a lack of testosterone or poor muscle tone. A man can have healthy androgen levels and be in excellent shape, but still develop this condition. Gynecomastia usually arises because environmental factors disturb the natural balance of androgen hormones and estrogen. For some men, this condition is genetic. Most males experience breast enlargement during puberty, but in a small percentage of men, pubertal gynecomastia never resolves. For others, medication plays a role; up to 25% of cases of male breast enlargement can be attributed to medications and supplements that raise estrogen levels. Finally, aging appears to contribute to the development of gynecomastia; by age 80, fully 65% of men exhibit some degree of breast enlargement. Falling androgen levels and fat centralization both contribute to age-related gynecomastia.

Though this condition is extremely common, men with pronounced gynecomastia often struggle with social stigma and feelings of self-consciousness. Breast enlargement can make a man look heavier than he actually is; it can also dissuade a man from exercising in public and present romantic difficulties. If you suffer from gynecomastia, having breast reduction surgery can therefore be an important step towards improving your emotional health. This operation is not overly invasive and typically does not produce much visible scar tissue, making it the most convenient and discreet way of permanently correcting enlarged breasts.

ABOUT MALE BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

Male breast reduction surgery can often be performed using liposuction alone. To perform liposuction on the chest, Dr. Wilson inserts a very thin surgical tube (called a cannula) into fatty tissue via a keyhole incision. (An incision is generally made near each nipple; this way, any resulting scar tissue will be disguised by the border of the areola.) Fat cells within the treatment area are irrigated with a liquid solution before being vacuumed out. Liposuction can also remove glandular tissue, which reduces the projection of the nipples in order to create flat chest contours.

In certain cases, gynecomastia patients also require the resection of excess skin. This is more common in men who have been heavily overweight in the past, or who have a medical condition that causes pronounced breast enlargement. To facilitate the removal of loose skin, Dr. Wilson will make a small incision within the crease under each breast. He will then perform liposuction, re-drape the skin so that it lies flat, and carefully remove any excess dermal tissue. 

Dr. Wilson and his entire staff are amazing! Could not ask for a better doctor. He has an excellent bed side manner and truly listens to what the patients wants. He provides options and includes other the practice to achieve optimal results. You will not be disappointed.
K.H.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING RECOVERY

Recovery from gynecomastia surgery is usually relatively easy because liposuction does not cause significant localized tissue trauma. With the use of pain medication, discomfort is typically minimal, though patients will experience some swelling and bruising during the first week after their procedure. Most men who have this procedure can return to work within seven to ten days. However, it’s important to be aware that having loose skin removed can extend recovery time; if you require skin resection, you may need to take up to two weeks off of work. Dr. Wilson will provide you with a personalized recovery plan before you have surgery so that you know what to expect in terms of aftercare.

All gynecomastia surgery patients must avoid vigorous exercise and heavy lifting for at least a month after their procedure. Use low-impact activities, like walking, to stay in shape while you recover, and do not lift anything that weighs more than 20 pounds. Dr. Wilson will let you know when you can safely resume all of your normal activities.

Surgical breast tissue removal is permanent: Once fat cells are eliminated via liposuction, they will not grow back, even if you gain a moderate amount of weight. For most men, gynecomastia surgery is a one-time operation.

 

WHO MAKES A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY?

The ideal gynecomastia surgery patient is a healthy adult male over the age of 22 who is concerned about the appearance of his chest. Because gynecomastia can be caused by a number of different medical conditions, it’s important to have a complete physical before you pursue surgery. If your gynecomastia arose rapidly, rather than gradually, the presence of a medical issue is especially likely. You will also need to discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor and Dr. Wilson. Not only can medications cause gynecomastia, they may interfere with your ability to safely have surgery.

All breast reduction candidates must have a normal BMI and be current nonsmokers. If you are overweight, you will need to lose weight in order to determine whether or not your gynecomastia is weight-related. Patients who find it difficult to exercise on account of their gynecomastia are advised to seek the assistance of a personal trainer. A personal trainer can help you find activities that work for you.

 

Schedule a Consultation

From Breast Augmentation to Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty and everything in-between, Board-Certified plastic surgeon Anthony Wilson, MD offers a wide range of procedures at his Portsmouth, NH office. If you are interested in booking a procedure, take the next steps by scheduling a consultation today.

ARRANGE A GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY CONSULTATION IN PORTSMOUTH

Living with gynecomastia can be extremely challenging, but this condition is highly treatable. Male breast reduction surgery effectively creates a smooth, masculine chest form—without presenting a significant risk of scarring or complications. This procedure can give you the freedom to dress as you see fit, exercise without feeling self-conscious, and enjoy a more rewarding intimate life. If you would like to learn more about male breast reduction surgery, contact Harvard-educated plastic surgeon Dr. Anthony Wilson at (603) 294-4526 to arrange a personal consultation. AW Plastic Surgery is conveniently located in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where we provide confidential bespoke care to patients from throughout New England. 

Meet Dr. Wilson

Anthony Wilson, MD has vast experience performing facial, body, and reconstructive procedures. After receiving an undergraduate degree from Harvard University and completing training with a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Wilson has continued to improve his technique to ensure the best results possible. Learn More about Anthony Wilson, MD, and why you should choose the Board-Certified plastic surgeon for your next procedure in the Seacoast Region.