Does the thought of going shirtless make you panic? If so, you’re not alone. An estimated 40 to 60 percent of men are affected by gynecomastia, or enlarged breasts. This condition, which may be caused by obesity, hormone changes, using certain medications and other factors, can cause feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Unfortunately, dieting and exercising alone doesn’t get rid of this condition.
Thankfully, the male breast reduction procedure may be able to give you a more sculpted and classically masculine-looking chest. This procedure gives men a more toned-looking chest by eliminating excess skin and breast tissue that is giving their chest a more “puffy” look. Male breast reduction has given confidence back to these men, who feel more comfortable and attractive when exposing their more defined chest contour.
Is Male Breast Reduction for You?
You may be an ideal candidate for male breast reduction surgery if you experience one or more of the following:
- A puffy, more feminine-looking chest (“man boobs”)
- Embarrassment when baring your chest while swimming or playing sports, or during intimacy
- Good overall health
- Good skin elasticity
- A stable weight that is within a healthy weight range for your build
What Can You Expect from Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Dr. McAllister will perform your male breast reduction surgery* as an outpatient procedure; the procedure itself typically takes between one to two hours to accomplish. Excess fat and glandular tissue is removed from the chest area through a small incision, typically made at the base of each nipple. Depending on the amount of fat needing to be removed, liposuction may also be used (whether in conjunction with the procedure or on its own). Once the excess fat and/or breast tissue is removed, Dr. McAllister will tighten the overlying skin and close the incisions with sutures.
*Prior to having male breast reduction surgery, talk to Dr. McAllister about the medications and vitamins you are taking. Certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding such as aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen) and some vitamins/homeopathic regimens should be discontinued prior to any elective surgery. Also, if you are a smoker, it is recommended that you stop smoking well in advance of the surgery, as smoking can affect your body’s ability to heal.
How Should You Plan for Recovery?
Since there is little downtime after surgery, most patients are able to return to work within one week of surgery, unless the job is more physically demanding. For the first two to three weeks, it is normal to have some post-operative bruising and swelling, as well as a burning sensation. To assist with the healing process, Dr. McAllister will place you in an elastic pressure garment, which you will wear for three to six weeks post-surgery. You can use the prescription pain medication provided to manage any discomfort. It is also important to note that you should avoid lifting weights or chest exercises for at least six weeks after your surgery. Moderate exercise, such as cardio and non-weight-bearing workouts, can be resumed after two weeks.
To ensure a healthy recovery, it is important to refrain from smoking during this period, since smoking adversely affects your body’s ability to heal. There will be scarring around the nipple of the breast (areola) from this procedure, but it will fade over time and be less visible. Avoid exposing scarred areas to the sun for at least six months.
Contact Us for a Male Breast Reduction Consultation
Bolster your confidence by achieving a leaner, fitter-looking chest that you will be proud to show off! To discuss the male breast reduction procedure with Dr. McAllister, and to find out if you’re a good candidate for surgery, contact the Coastal Plastic Surgery Institute today. Call us now at (850) 233-7674.