When treated by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, gynecomastia can be corrected through male breast reduction surgery.
Gynecomastia is a serious, but correctable condition. Manhattan-based plastic surgeon Dr. Preminger can help.
Male Breast Reduction Surgery
The overdevelopment of male breast tissue, otherwise known as gynecomastia, is a major source of embarrassment for many. The condition is caused by a hormonal imbalance and can be a result of an underlying condition or the side effect of certain prescription medications, as well as steroid use. If you have some degree of excessive breast tissue and feel insecure about your appearance, gynecomastia surgery is a safe and effective solution for men.
Dr. Preminger offers gynecomastia surgery for adolescent and adult patients in her Manhattan surgical suite. The procedure has proven especially helpful for those patients who are reluctant to take their shirts off in public, or have intimacy issues stemming from a psychological discomfort with their enlarged breasts. By contouring the chest and removing excess fat and tissue, the surgery will create a firmer and more masculine looking chest. Many men who have breast reduction report a significant boost in self-esteem and confidence.
Before & After
Preparation for male breast reduction
Every male breast reduction consultation begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Dr. Preminger needs to determine if patients are good candidates, have realistic expectations, are in overall good health and are free of illness or conditions that would impair proper healing.
After confirming that breast growth has stabilized, Dr. Preminger may ask patients to do the following in preparation for the surgery:
- Abstain from taking anti-inflammatories, aspirin and certain herbal supplements
- Stop smoking
- Take certain medications or adjust current medications
The doctor will also explain possible complications with gynecomastia surgery, which although rare, can occur. These include:
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Breast asymmetry
- Blood clots
- Improper healing and unfavorable scarring
Recovery & results
Even though your gynecomastia surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in our NYC surgical suite, it’s important to have a friend or family member accompany you. After the surgery is complete, the doctor may insert a drainage tube to collect accumulated fluids. This is only a temporary measure and will be removed after one or two days. A special compression garment will help keep swelling down, and should be worn for three to four weeks.
Patients should plan at least one week off of work, and expect bruising, swelling and some pain after the surgery. Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Most men are back at work within 7-14 days, and able to resume light exercise about two weeks post-operatively. Dr. Preminger encourages patients to refrain from vigorous physical activity for at least six weeks following breast reduction surgery.
In most gynecomastia surgeries, it takes a solid 6 to 8 weeks for all swelling to resolve, revealing a firmer and flatter chest. Once the final results are evident, patients typically find themselves with a renewed confidence to sport fitted T-shirts, or even go swimming at the beach without a shirt.
The results are permanent, but can be affected by some medications like steroids or atypical antipsychotics. To maintain your results, exercise regularly and eat a nutritious diet, as dramatic weight gain can lead to a recurrence of the condition.
Male breast reduction in NYC
As a respected New York City plastic surgeon, one of Dr. Preminger’s greatest pleasures is derived from her daily interactions with patients. She understands the frustration and life-altering implications of gynecomastia and is committed to helping male patients overcome this hurdle.
There are times when no amount of diet or exercise can correct a hormonal problem that causes emotional distress and constant embarrassment. Learn how male breast reduction surgery can improve your self-esteem and quality of life. To schedule a private consultation with Dr. Preminger in her Park Avenue office, please submit the online contact form or call (212) 706-1900.