At North Raleigh Plastic Surgery, we understand that gynecomastia, the condition characterized by enlarged male breasts, can significantly impact self-confidence and quality of life. Our dedicated team of experienced plastic surgeons in Raleigh is committed to providing tailored solutions to address this concern and help you achieve the masculine chest contour you desire.
Whether you’re considering male breast reduction surgery for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate physical discomfort, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Definition of Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size of enlarged or overdeveloped breast tissue in men. Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the growth of glandular tissue in the male breast, leading to a feminine-like appearance.
This surgery involves the removal of excess glandular tissue and, in some cases, excess skin and fat, to achieve a flatter and more masculine chest contour. Gynecomastia surgery can help improve self-confidence, alleviate physical discomfort, and restore a more masculine chest appearance.
Causes of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia, the development of enlarged breast tissue in males, can result from various underlying causes. Understanding these factors is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment approach.
Here are some common causes of gynecomastia:
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances, particularly an increase in estrogen relative to testosterone levels, can trigger the growth of breast tissue in men.
Puberty
During puberty, hormonal fluctuations commonly occur, often resulting in temporary gynecomastia.
Medications
Certain medications can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to the development of gynecomastia. These may include anabolic steroids, anti-androgens used in prostate cancer treatment, some antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and certain drugs used to treat heart conditions.
Health Conditions:
Various health conditions can predispose individuals to gynecomastia. These may include thyroid disorders, liver disease, kidney failure, and tumors of the pituitary gland or adrenal glands.
Aging
As men age, testosterone levels tend to decrease while estrogen levels may remain relatively stable or increase.
Genetics
There may be a genetic predisposition to developing gynecomastia, as certain families may have a higher incidence of the condition.
Weight Gain
Excess body fat can lead to an increase in estrogen production, contributing to the development of gynecomastia.
Ideal Candidates for Gynecomastia Surgery
Good candidates for male breast reduction surgery are healthy with no significant medical problems and your gynecomastia should not be related to a hormonal issue (gynecomastia cannot fix hormonal issues that result in excess breast tissue).
Benefits of Male Breast Reduction
Male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, offers a range of benefits to individuals experiencing enlarged breast tissue.
Improved Confidence
Gynecomastia can significantly impact self-esteem and body image. Male breast reduction surgery can help restore confidence by achieving a more masculine chest contour, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance. Enhanced Physical Comfort Enlarged breast tissue can cause physical discomfort, such as pain, tenderness, and chafing. By reducing excess breast tissue, male breast reduction surgery can alleviate these discomforts, improving overall physical comfort and quality of life.
Enhanced Physical Comfort
Enlarged breast tissue can cause physical discomfort, such as pain, tenderness, and chafing. By reducing excess breast tissue, male breast reduction surgery can alleviate these discomforts, improving overall physical comfort and quality of life.
Clothing Fit
Enlarged breasts can make it challenging to find clothing that fits properly and comfortably. Following male breast reduction surgery, individuals often find that they can wear a wider range of clothing styles with greater ease, enhancing their wardrobe options and overall satisfaction with their appearance.
Improved Posture
Large breasts can affect posture, leading to slouching or rounded shoulders. By reducing breast size, male breast reduction surgery can help improve posture, leading to better spinal alignment and reduced strain on the back and neck muscles.
Psychological Well-being
Gynecomastia can have a significant psychological impact, causing feelings of embarrassment, shame, and self-consciousness. Male breast reduction surgery can alleviate these psychological burdens, promoting mental well-being and a more positive self-image.
Enhanced Physical Activity
Enlarged breasts can limit physical activity and participation in sports or exercise due to discomfort or self-consciousness. After undergoing male breast reduction surgery, individuals often experience increased comfort and confidence, allowing them to engage more fully in physical activities and lead a healthier lifestyle.
Consultation and Assessment for Gynecomastia Surgery
During your consultation with Dr. Ortiz or Dr. Jones, they will discuss your goals, your case, the cost, and which surgical approach would be most beneficial for you. You’ll also discuss what you can expect in regards to recovery, complications, and scars.
Surgical Technique is Used for Male Breast Reduction
The goal of this surgery is to remove the excess fat and glandular tissue around the breast so that the chest is flatter and more traditionally masculine. This can be accomplished a few different ways.
Liposuction
Liposuction may be used to further flatten the chest and a second procedure is sometimes necessary to tighten any loose skin.
Recovery Process Following Male Breast Reduction
Since you will be coming out of anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home from the center and stay with you for 24 hours after the surgery. You should expect some bruising and swelling on the chest. You will wear a compression vest for 6 weeks and keep your activity light. Depending on your case, you may need drain tubes. Most patients take one week off of work, although you are free to go back to work after the drain tubes are removed.
Expected Results of Gynecomastia Surgery
The expected results of gynecomastia surgery typically include a flatter, more contoured chest appearance with reduced breast tissue. Patients can expect a masculine chest contour that aligns with their desired aesthetic goals. Following surgery, discomfort and tenderness associated with enlarged breast tissue are alleviated, enhancing physical comfort and quality of life.
Additionally, individuals often experience a boost in confidence and self-esteem, as they feel more comfortable and satisfied with their chest appearance. Overall, gynecomastia surgery offers transformative results, providing long-lasting improvements in both physical and psychological well-being.
The Cost of Gynecomastia Surgery
The cost of male breast reduction surgery with North Raleigh Plastic Surgery is $7,220 and one with a w/lift is $8,925.
Common Questions About Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Male breast reduction takes approximately 1 ½ – 2 hours. Plan on being at North Raleigh Plastic Surgery for around 3 hours on the day of your surgery. Since you will be coming out of anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home from the center and stay with you for 24 hours after the surgery.
Our licensed anesthetist administers IV sedation for gynecomastia surgeries.
Gynecomastia results in minimal scarring, with most scars being hidden under the armpit. If your male breast reduction is combined with a lift, you will have scars around your areola that are hidden in the pigment changes of your skin.
The most common complication is accumulation of blood in the wound. This is not a serious complication and many times, the blood can be drained with a needle. Occasionally, we have to open the wound to drain. Areolar loss (loss of sensation in the areola) may also occur.
You will have a minimum of 3 appointments with Dr. Ortiz after your breast augmentation: one appointment a week after the surgery, one appointment at 2 months post-surgery, and the final appointment at 6 months after surgery. If you need to see Dr. Ortiz at any time between these appointments, please call us.
The cost of your gynecomastia surgery includes all pre-op and post-op appointments, the surgery and surgical materials, as well as any post-op compression garments. Prescription pain medication is not included in the cost of surgery and is not dispensed by North Raleigh Plastic Surgery.
We require a payment of 25% of the total cost upfront to secure your surgery date. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than two weeks before the surgery takes place. While most cosmetic surgeries are not covered by insurance, we offer a cash discount and accept Care Credit and all major credit cards.
If you’re ready to find relief from the physical and mental discomfort brought on by gynecomastia, Dr. Ortiz or Dr. Jones can help. They have helped countless men improve their self-esteem by giving them a more traditionally masculine appearance, using a variety of male plastic surgery procedures.
At North Raleigh Plastic Surgery, our goal is to educate you about every aspect of your procedure so you feel comfortable each step of the way. Call us at 919-532-2270 or complete the easy-to-use online contact form below to schedule your personalized consultation at our Raleigh plastic surgery center.