What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast tissue that may occur due to hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. This condition can lead to physical discomfort and impact self-esteem. A clear understanding of its cause is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.
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Watch Dr. Shikha talk about specific details, recovery information, and patient experiences through these informative videos
The Gynecomastia Procedure
The gynecomastia operation, also known as male breast reduction, involves removing excess glandular and fatty tissue to create a flatter, more proportionate chest contour. Our board-certified plastic surgeon employs advanced techniques—such as liposuction, direct tissue excision, or a combination of both—to achieve natural-looking results with minimal scarring. Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
- Comprehensive consultation and evaluation to determine the cause and extent of tissue enlargement
- Personalized surgical plan based on your individual needs and desired outcome
- Procedure performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the case
- Utilization of liposuction, glandular excision, or a combination for optimal tissue removal
- Strategically placed incisions to minimize visible scarring
- Typically an outpatient procedure with same-day discharge
Recovery and Expected Results
Most patients resume light activities within 1-2 weeks, with complete recovery typically occurring in 4-6 weeks; however, individual healing times may vary. A compression garment is usually recommended to minimize swelling and support proper tissue healing. Although initial improvements are noticeable shortly after the procedure, final results continue to refine over 3-6 months as residual swelling resolves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal candidates for a gynecomastia operation are men in good overall health who are affected by the appearance of enlarged breast tissue. Factors such as stable weight, non-smoking status, and realistic expectations about surgical outcomes are important. A detailed consultation will determine if you are a suitable candidate.
The results of the gynecomastia procedure are generally long-lasting. However, if underlying factors such as significant weight gain, specific medications, or hormonal imbalances are not addressed, there is a potential for recurrence. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following post-operative guidance can help sustain the results.
Many patients are able to return to work within a week and gradually resume normal activities over 4-6 weeks. A compression garment is typically recommended for 3-6 weeks to aid healing. While early improvements are often visible, final outcomes may take up to 3-6 months as the healing process completes.
While any surgical procedure results in some scarring, advanced techniques allow incisions to be placed along natural chest creases or the areolar border, making them less conspicuous. Over time, these scars tend to fade significantly.
Gynecomastia surgery is usually classified as a cosmetic procedure and is not routinely covered by insurance. However, if the condition causes significant physical discomfort or is linked to an underlying medical issue, some insurance plans may offer coverage on a case-by-case basis. A thorough consultation will help determine your eligibility.