Top 3 Treatments for Gynecomastia

November 8, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

The 3 Best Treatments for Gynecomastia–

Breast reduction procedures are normally associated with women. However, a condition known as gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, affects men in surprisingly large numbers. Estimates indicate that more than 50% of men will experience some form of gynecomastia in their lifetime. In fact, some studies put the number considerably higher, suggesting that as many as 65 % of middle aged to elderly men may be affected by “man boobs”.

This condition can be the cause of great embarrassment for many men – since neither diet nor exercise are effective at reducing male breasts in most case. But the good news is that treatment for male breast enlargement now is available in many forms, including state-of-the-art non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment. Dr. Ali, board certified Oakland County plastic surgeon, specializes in the various treatments available to help men affected by gynecomastia live their lives with confidence.

In this article Dr. Ali discusses the three best treatments for reducing male breasts – surgery, liposuction and non-invasive CoolSculpting – all of which are available in our Oakland County surgical office and med spa.

Causes of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts, which can produce a lopsided effect. In teens, it is generally hormonal in nature, and likely will diminish with time as the hormone levels balance. However, if the condition persists, it may be a sign that something else is the cause, and may require medical intervention in the form of gynecomastia treatments.

Cancer is rarely the cause of male breast enlargement. However, it’s always a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor to rule out cancer, or for that matter, any other underlying health problems. Blood tests can generally determine if anomalies exist that indicate a need for medical intervention. The good news is that most common causes of gynecomastia are not serious or life threatening, and can be addressed cosmetically.

The actual underlying cause of gynecomastia can be the result of a variety of factors. Some of the more common causes are: changes in hormone levels; some medications, including some that are prescribed for heartburn, anxiety, some heart medications, and antibiotics; heavy alcohol consumption; the use of recreational drugs; some herbal products, such as tea tree and lavender; an overactive thyroid; kidney disease; and rapid or excessive weight gain.

Obviously, some of the causes of gynecomastia can be serious, so it is important for you to first make an appointment with your primary physician to rule out the need for medical intervention before setting out on a treatment program of any kind.

Treatments for Gynecomastia

After medical issues have been addressed or ruled out, we offer several excellent options to treat gynecomastia at AMAE Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa in Oakland County.

Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction) Surgery for Gynecomastia

The most common cause of gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance, which can be treated with hormone therapy. It may require breast reduction mammoplasty surgery to reduce or remove the breast glandular tissue. In this procedure, Dr. Ali makes an incision in the skin and removes excess fat. Results are immediate and positive. Some side effects include some minimal scarring, and the recuperation and healing process requires some downtime. It is also important to note that most insurance companies will not cover mammoplasty surgery.

Liposuction for Gynecomastia

If a less invasive solution is desired, liposuction may be something to consider. Liposuction is generally safe and minimally invasive. Either a local anesthesia with sedation or a general anesthesia can be used. Two incisions are made, and are generally small, located on either side of the chest.

During liposuction in our Oakland County office, excess fat is surgically removed through a narrow surgical “straw” called a cannula. The cannula is attached to a liposuction machine and is moved around underneath the skin into the fat layer to remove the unwanted fatty deposits. As opposed to mammoplasty surgery, liposuction results in less bruising and bleeding, and the recovery is much faster.

The bruising and swelling from liposuction will be less than with mammoplasty surgery. In some cases there will be some swelling, soreness and occasional numbness. However, these symptoms should subside within a week or so.

CoolSculpting for Gynecomastia

CoolSculpting is not effective for “true” or “hormonal” gynecomastia. However, if your gynecomastia is caused by weight gain or certain other factors, CoolSculpting in our Oakland County medical spa may be very effective in reducing male breast fat deposits. In fact, CoolSculpting may be the best non-surgical treatment option for banishing male breast fat.

CoolSculpting involves a special machine that freezes the fatty areas of the breast. Over the next 2 to 3 months, these fat cells are eliminated naturally by the body, and the size of the breasts reduces permanently and dramatically. There are virtually no side effects, discomfort is minimal, and most men go back to work right after their CoolSculpting procedure is completed.

Gynecomastia Treatment Oakland County

Dr. Ali offers private and discreet consultations, and can assist you in determining the cause of your gynecomastia. Then, he will clearly explain your treatment options – so you can choose the male breast reduction procedure that is right for you.

If you live in the greater Oakland County area, give Dr. Ali a call at the AMAE Med Spa to set up an appointment.

Oakland County Gynecomastia Consultation: 248-335-7200

What to Expect during Gynecomastia Surgery

August 16, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

What to Expect during Gynecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Reduction)–

Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is a surgical procedure that addresses and corrects enlarged or overdeveloped breasts in men. While liposuction or CoolSculpting can be effective in removing excess fat from men’s chest, the actual glandular breast tissue that develops in gynecomastia can only be removed by surgery.

The vast majority of gynecomastia cases involves the surgical removal of glandular tissue and/or skin that liposuction alone cannot resolve. In cases where the patient’s skin has stretched or sagged, a surgical approach is necessary to achieve optimal results.

In this article Waterford, MI area board certified plastic surgeon Doctor Ali explains what to expect during gynecomastia (male breast reduction) surgery.

Preparing for Gynecomastia Surgery

Your successful surgery actually begins several days in advance of the actual procedure. Dr. Ali’s office will give you complete and detailed instructions regarding your gynecomastia surgery, letting you know how to prepare in advance and what to expect following the surgery. In order to ensure that the procedure goes as smoothly as possible, it is very important to follow these instructions to the letter.

Of course, every case is unique. However, in general, you need to stop taking medications that would tend to thin your blood, such as aspirin, Advil, and even Vitamin E and many herbal products.

You should plan to stop eating and drinking at least 8 hours before your procedure.

You will want to wear comfortable clothing that is not tight or restrictive. And be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your surgery. It is also advisable to have someone stay with you at least a night or two, as you will need a lot of rest and may be in some discomfort.

Gynecomastia Surgery Anesthetic

In most cases, gynecomastia surgery is considered an outpatient procedure, and is performed using either a general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.

Waterford area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali will discuss your anesthesia options and preferences at your consultation. Of course, any anesthesia will be administered by an experienced, qualified anesthesiologist.

Gynecomastia Surgery Incision

Generally, incisions are made either around the borders of the areola (peri-areolar incision) or following the natural creases of the breast. Dr. Ali is a trained, qualified cosmetic surgeon and takes great care in the placement of the incisions to be sure that any scarring is minimal and as inconspicuous as possible. Whatever scars occur will diminish with time, and chest hair usually camouflages any scars that remain. Even so, most men prefer whatever small scarring they may experience to having oversized breasts.

Gynecomastia Surgery

During the surgery, Dr. Ali makes an incision and removes the excess glandular tissue. While the glandular tissue must be cut out (excised), Dr. Ali may also use liposuction techniques in addition to excising (cutting out) to remove any fatty tissue. Prior to the surgery, Dr. Ali will select one of the various liposuction techniques that he believes will be most effective for your unique case.

Depending on the extent of your surgery, the areola may also need to be reduced, and perhaps the nipple will be moved to provide a more natural male contour.

Finally, if there is excess saggy skin that needs to be addressed, Dr. Ali will remove and tighten it.

After the surgery, Dr. Ali will apply dressings or bandages to cover the incisions and an elastic bandage or compression vest will support the surgical area and minimize swelling as it heals after surgery.

In some cases that involve the removal of a large amount of breast tissue, a small drain may be inserted under the skin so that any blood or fluid can drain. In most cases, however, these are not necessary. If your case does necessitate the insertion of a drain, Dr. Ali’s office will give you specific instructions outlining how to care for the surgical site and drains.

Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery

Because you will be given an anesthesia, you must arrange in advance for someone to drive you home. Additionally, when you get home you will want to rest in bed for at least a day or two, so it is helpful to have someone stay with you to care for you.

Most patients are able to return to work about a week after surgery, and a gradual return to exercise is usually permitted after the few weeks. Of course, Dr. Ali will need to clear you before you resume heavy lifting or strenuous activities or exercise.

Gynecomastia surgery can be life-changing to men who have been uncomfortable with the appearance of an enlarged chest. Waterford area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of his patients to achieve the results they desire. If you live in or around the Waterford, MI area and have questions about gynecomastia surgery and what procedure might be right for you, give Dr. Ali’s office a call to schedule a consultation.

CLICK HERE to Read More about Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia Surgery – Waterford, MI Area

Waterford area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali offers gynecomastia surgery, as well as liposuction and CoolSculpting, and can help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you. If you live in or around the Waterford area, Oakland County or greater Detroit region, call Dr. Ali’s office to schedule your gynecomastia surgery consultation today.

Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation – Waterford, MI Area: 248-335-7200

Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery

August 11, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery –

Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, affects as many as 50% of men at some point in their lives. While some cases may be temporary, many men elect to undergo gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction.

In this article Warren, MI area board certified plastic surgeon Doctor Ali explains what to expect during the recovery period after undergoing gynecomastia (male breast reduction) surgery.

Going Home after Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery is generally performed as outpatient surgery, meaning that you can go home after you are discharged from recovery. Because the surgery involves anesthesia, you will need to have someone drive you home, and it is also very helpful to have someone stay with you at least for the first night or two, as you will be a bit groggy for a while. Most patients are able to return to work as early as 3 to 7 days post-surgery, depending on what the job entails. Exercise can be resumed gradually, but strenuous exercise or job duties should not be resumed until you get the all-clear from your doctor.

Pain after Gynecomastia Surgery

While the amount of pain and discomfort varies greatly, most men report that they feel the type of pain associated with a vigorous workout, while others liken the pain to being punched in the chest. Upon discharge from your gynecomastia surgery procedure, you will be given narcotic pain pills. However, many men say they didn’t need them, but rather simply used over the counter pain relief medications such as Tylenol.

Drains after Gynecomastia Surgery

Unless your gynecomastia surgery involves removing very large amounts of breast tissue, it is unlikely that you would be sent home a post-surgical drain. Dr. Ali will determine prior to your surgery whether or not a drain will be necessary, and if it is, he will give you detailed instructions on how to deal with the drain as you recover.

Swelling after Gynecomastia Surgery

It is common to experience some degree of swelling after surgery, which may increase for about a week. After that, the swelling will reduce quickly, and then gradually tapers off until after a month, it is hardly noticeable. However, the swelling will continue to reduce for the next three months up to even a year, although the changes during that period of time are very subtle.

Compression Vest after Gynecomastia Surgery

Before you leave the operating room, you will be fitted with a compression vest, which is a vest fitted with foam underneath, to provide support and to reduce swelling. After a few days, you will be instructed to remove the vest and throw away the foam. You should still wear the vest when you are recovering around the house. When you go out, you can wear a snug Under Armor-type of shirt. While there is no hard and fast rule as to how long you should wear the shirt or vest, the longer you wear it, the faster your swelling will subside. A good rule of thumb is to wear the compression vest for about a month.

Bathing after Gynecomastia Surgery

Dr. Ali suggests that you wear the initial post surgical garment for two days. After that, you may remove it to take a shower. However, you will need to put the compression vest back on afterwards.

Returning to Work after Gynecomastia Surgery

Depending on what your job entails, you can expect to return to work about three days after your gynecomastia surgery. Of course, if your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you will need to wait a bit longer. And conversely, if your job entails light duties, you may be ready to returning even sooner.

Driving after Gynecomastia Surgery

Most patients feel up to driving after about three to five days. Before getting behind the wheel, you should be confident that you feel completely unrestricted by your discomfort, and feel secure in making any abrupt movements that may be necessary as you drive your car. Of course, as long as you are taking narcotic pain medication, you must avoid driving entirely. Ultimately, you may resume driving when you are confident that you can do so safely.

Exercise after Gynecomastia Surgery

Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may resume exercise after about three weeks to a month. Dr. Ali can tell you when it is safe to begin your exercise regimen, and can suggest some intermediary steps that involve movement, but less stress to the surgical site.

Sun Exposure after Gynecomastia Surgery

During your recovery, it may sound like a good idea to lie out in the sun and relax. However, you should only do so if your incision is protected so that it is completely blocked from the sun. In fact, it is best to keep your incision blocked from the sun’s rays for at least a year.

Gynecomastia Surgery – Warren, MI Area

Gynecomastia surgery has proven to be a great benefit to men who are uncomfortable with enlarged breasts. Dr. Ali has provided surgical relief to hundreds of patients in the Warren, MI area. If you have questions about gynecomastia, give Dr. Ali a call today to discuss what options are available to you, and what may be the best course of treatment that will give you the results you desire.

Warren, MI area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali offers gynecomastia surgery, as well as liposuction and CoolSculpting, and can help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you. If you live in the Warren, MI Area, Macomb County, or the greater Detroit region call Dr. Ali’s office to schedule your gynecomastia surgery consultation today.

Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation – Warren, MI Area: 248-335-7200

Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs (Part 1)

August 6, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs (Part 1) –

Gynecomastia surgery – also called male breast reduction surgery – is a type of plastic surgery to remove excessive or overgrown glandular breast tissue from men and sometimes teenage boys.

In this article Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali answers patients most frequently asked questions about Gynecomastia surgery.

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a common condition in men and boys where the breasts swell and become abnormally large. It is generally caused by a hormonal imbalance (either naturally occurring or from steroid use) that causes the growth of glandular tissue. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 80% of adolescents, but in normal cases, goes away on its own. However, in some cases it doesn’t, requiring surgical intervention. In mild cases, there is just a bit of protrusion; but in more severe cases, the male chest takes on the appearance of female breasts.

This can be very embarrassing to men, and some are hesitant to go to the beach or to take off their shirts in public. Many men find that their social lives are negatively impacted, and eventually seek medical advice. The good news is that gynecomastia can in most cases be corrected with surgery.

What is pseudogynecomastia?

Overweight men may develop an overabundance of chest fat, and even after losing weight, the fat in the chest area may remain. This condition is called pseudogynecomastia as opposed to true gynecomastia. True gynecomastia involves glandular tissue, as opposed to fat.

What causes gynecomastia?

There are many things that can cause gynecomastia, including hormonal level changes, some medications, heavy alcohol use, recreational drugs, some herbal products, various health imbalances, and excessive weight gain.

Pseudogynecomastia, on the other hand, is simply extra fat that has found its way to the chest area. Pseudogynecomastia can be caused by aging, weight gain, hereditary factors, or other non-medical issues.

Are there other treatments besides surgery for gynecomastia?

If you are overweight, losing the extra pounds may help, especially if you have pseudogynecomastia. In this case, liposuction or CoolSculpting may be able to remove remaining excess fat.

If you have true gynecomastia, however, losing weight may not necessarily help, because the chest enlargement is caused by excess glandular tissue. This firm and rubbery tissue cannot be removed by liposuction, and generally, surgery is the only option.

How is gynecomastia surgery performed?

Gynecomastia surgery involves surgical excision, which means the glandular tissue is cut out. The procedure is normally done using a general anesthesia, IV sedation, or local anesthesia, depending upon your physical anatomy and preference. A small incision is made in the lower part of the areola and the excess tissue is taken out through the incision. Dissolving stitches are used to close the incision. Normally, no drains are necessary, although in some more involved scenarios, you may be sent home with drains in place that will help your body eliminate excess fluid and blood.

Dr. Ali will discuss anesthetic options with you. Many patients prefer a general anesthetic, under which they are totally asleep. However, in many situations, IV sedations can work equally as well.

Are the results of gynecomastia surgery permanent?

While the surgical procedure is considered to be “permanent,” in some rare instances, gynecomastia can recur. For instance, if the gynecomastia was caused by steroids and the patient continues to use them after surgery, gynecomastia could easily reoccur. In cases of pseudogynecomastia, if the patient receives liposuction and then regains the weight, it may be necessary to repeat the procedure, or to opt for the surgical procedure that will yield more thorough results.

Gynecomastia Surgery – Oakland County

If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, no doubt you have a lot of questions. These articles give general answers to many frequently asked questions. However, you no doubt have more questions specific to your unique situation. Dr. Ali will help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you, and will make sure you have all the information you need. If you live in or around the Oakland County area, call Dr. Ali’s office to schedule your consultation today.

Board certified Oakland County plastic surgeon Dr. Ali offers gynecomastia surgery, as well as liposuction and CoolSculpting, and can help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you.

Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation – Oakland County: 248-335-7200

Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs (Part 2)

August 5, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs (Part 2) –

Gynecomastia surgery – also called male breast reduction surgery – is a type of plastic surgery to remove excessive or overgrown glandular breast tissue from men and sometimes teenage boys.

In this two part article Detroit area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali answers patients’ most frequently asked questions about Gynecomastia surgery.

CLICK HERE for Part 1 of Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs

What age can I get gynecomastia surgery?

Gynecomastia is actually very common among teenage boys, and generally resolves itself in time. Therefore, it is best to postpone surgical discussions until around the age of 18 unless the case is extreme or is having a devastating effect on the teen’s health, wellbeing or self-esteem.

There is no upper age limit for gynecomastia surgery, as long as the patient is in good health and does not have any underlying bleeding disorders or other risk factors. Dr. Ali has helped many senior men regain a firm, masculine and youthful chest with gynecomastia surgery.

What is the goal of gynecomastia surgery?

The best outcome for a successful gynecomastia surgery is a chest that has a natural contour. It is normal for there to be some glandular tissue beneath the areola. Therefore, the surgeon will remove some of the fat and glandular tissue, but will retain enough so that the chest retains a nice shape.

If the surgeon were to remove too much fat, while the chest may look flat when the man’s arms are at his side, when he raises his arms there could actually be a depression underneath the areola.

One’s overall shape also needs to be taken into consideration. For instance, if a man is overweight with a prominent abdomen, removing all or most of the fat from the chest will create a result that is completely out of proportion.

Will I have scars from gynecomastia surgery?

If glandular tissue is removed, scarring will occur on the lower perimeter of the areola. Dr. Ali is a skilled plastic surgeon, and is extremely careful in closing the incisions so that any scarring is minimal. In time, these scars will fade, and will eventually be almost unnoticeable.

In the case of liposuction, scarring is limited to two incisions that are quite small and normally fade away almost completely.

Hair on their chest can help to conceal any scars that remain. However, men universally prefer to have a couple tiny scars, in exchange for getting rid of feminine or oversized breasts!

Can I have other procedures done at the same time as gynecomastia surgery?

Many men choose to address excess fat in the stomach area and/or “love handles” through liposuction at the same time they undergo gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Ali can discuss these options with you at the time of your consultation, and decide what is best for you in terms of your goals and your overall health.

Does insurance cover gynecomastia?

Each insurance company has different policies and procedures, but in general, if gynecomastia is considered purely cosmetic, insurance companies most likely will not pay. There are some instances where gynecomastia surgery may be covered if the condition is extremely disfiguring or contributes to or causes other health issues.

Is there downtime after gynecomastia surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is normally performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that you will go home after your procedure. You will need someone to drive you home, as you will have been under anesthesia; and Dr. Ali recommends that you have someone stay with you for the first day or two. Most patients report that they feel up to returning to work after three days to a week, assuming their job duties are not too strenuous. Dr. Ali will let you know when it is safe to resume your exercise regimen, but likely you will be ready after about 3-4 weeks.

CLICK HERE to Read More about Recovery after Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia Surgery – Detroit Area

If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, there are a lot of things to consider. These articles are meant to provide general answers to many questions. However, you no doubt want specific information about your unique situation. Detroit area board certified plastic surgeon has performed hundreds of gynecomastia surgeries. He can answer whatever questions you have.

In addition to gynecomastia surgery, Dr. Ali offers liposuction and CoolSculpting, and can help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you. If you live in or around the Detroit area, call Dr. Ali’s office to schedule your consultation today.

Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation – Detroit Area: 248-335-7200

Who Is a Good Candidate For Gynecomastia Surgery?

August 5, 2019/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Who Is a Good Candidate For Gynecomastia Surgery?

True gynecomastia occurs when an imbalance of hormones results in the enlargement of breast tissue in the male chest. The hormonal imbalance may either occur naturally or be stimulated through the use of steroids such as those taken by bodybuilders. Weight gain can also affect the amount of fat cells that locate in the chest area, and in some cases, the enlarged chest may persist even after the weight is lost.

If the enlarged chest is caused by a buildup of glandular tissue, or a combination of glandular tissue and fat, gynecomastia surgery may be the best option for treatment.

In this article, Dr. Ali, Macomb County board certified plastic surgeon, discusses gynecomastia surgery, who is a good candidate for it, and alternatives to the surgery.

Gynecomastia Surgery for Overweight Patients

While gynecomastia is not a weight loss method, many patients undergoing gynecomastia surgery are overweight. Gynecomastia will typically remove several inches from the chest in addition to tightening and contouring it.

Some men elect to undergo gynecomastia surgery before losing weight because it gives them a good jump start to their weight loss efforts. While the surgery will address their feminine-looking breasts, care must be taken to make sure the chest remains in proportion to the abdomen. If the chest is made flatter but the abdomen still protrudes because of excess fat, the appearance overall will look unnatural and unbalanced.

Gynecomastia Surgery for Teenagers

Gynecomastia is actually quite common in adolescents, and generally subsides by the late teens. In most situations, doctors prefer to wait until after the age of 18, to see if it resolves naturally.

However, sometimes the enlarged chest is so pronounced that it requires medical intervention. Additionally, severe gynecomastia can be the source of profound embarrassment for a teenaged boy, and it may affect his social life and self-esteem. Simple, normal activities such as going to a pool party, playing sports or even changing in the locker room can cause undue amounts of anxiety for a teen suffering from gynecomastia.

Alternatives to Gynecomastia Surgery

If excess fat is the cause, gynecomastia can be treated effectively in many cases with liposuction. While liposuction doesn’t remove glandular tissue, it does effectively address excess fat. Plus, the recovery is quicker.

CoolSculpting is another option, and is available in our Macomb County medical spa. A special machine freezes the areas of the breast that contain excess fat, and over the next couple of months, the fat is eliminated naturally by the body. However, CoolSculpting does not work for true or hormonal gynecomastia.

Deciding to Get Gynecomastia Surgery

Only you can decide if your excess chest tissue or fat bothers you to the extent that you are willing to undergo a surgical procedure to get rid of it. If you are embarrassed to take your shirt off by the pool or at the beach, or if you are uncomfortable in tight-fitting or thin shirts because your chest appears to be more feminine than masculine, you may want to schedule a consultation to explore your options.

Gynecomastia Surgery – Macomb County

Dr. Ali offers gynecomastia surgery, as well as liposuction and CoolSculpting, and can help you decide which male breast reduction procedure is best for you. If you live in or around the Macomb County area, call Dr. Ali’s office to schedule your gynecomastia surgery consultation today.

Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation – Macomb County: 248-335-7200

The One Answer to Man Boobs (Gynecomastia) You Should Consider

November 30, 2016/0 Comments/in Cosmetic Surgery, Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Detroit, MI – Gynecomastia, a condition otherwise known as man boobs, can wreak havoc on a man’s self-esteem.

A man is supposed to be able to take his shirt off without reservation, whether it’s lounging by the pool on a hot day or playing basketball as a member of the “skins team”. Gyno sufferers simply cannot take their shirts off without feeling terrible about themselves.

While man boobs typically only affects men 45 years of age or older, the problem can also be seen in some younger men. Hormonal imbalance during puberty can lead to the appearance of man boobs or moobs as they are sometimes called. The problem can also develop later in life as a result of disease, a metabolic disorder or as a result of the aging process.

The condition causes fatty tissue and/or the development of glandular tissue that is localized in the breast area and is incredibly common. It is said that male breast enlargement can be seen in 60-90% of newborns and 50-60% of boys in puberty. It can also be seen in 70% of men aged 50 or older. Gynecomastia can develop on one side of a man’s chest or both.

By now you’re probably thinking, enough about the facts about man boobs, how do you treat it?

Treatment for Man Boobs

While exercise, proper diet, and some topical treatments can help to reduce the appearance of man boobs or Gynecomastia, there is no guarantee that the problem will go away completely.

If the problem is severe, the only treatment may be gynecomastia surgery.

Gynecomastia Surgery

Following a consultation with Detroit male breast reduction surgeon Dr. Ali, you will undergo either liposuction to remove the breast fat or a mastectomy to remove the breast gland tissue. The surgery is safe and offers very little downtime.

During surgery, you will be given a series of limited incisions to remove the fat and/or breast tissue. The incisions will typically be hidden around the areola so as to reduce the appearance of scarring after your body has healed.

Following surgery, you may experience some soreness and discomfort. Dr. Ali will wrap your chest in bandages that are to remain in place for at least a day, maybe longer. Dr. Ali will then give you instructions on how to heal properly. For example, while your chest is healing, you should limit any heavy activity, especially aerobic activity and weight lifting.

After you have properly rested for about a week, you can then resume your regular activities. You should still refrain from heavy lifting for about three to four weeks. Dr. Ali will give you more feedback about your individual case following your male breast reduction surgical procedure.

Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery an Option for You?

If you suffer from man boobs, you’ll be happy to know that many insurance companies will cover the surgery. Check with your insurance company, then schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali to learn about your options.

Are you ready to say goodbye to man boobs for good? Contact Detroit plastic surgeon Dr. Ali to learn more about gynecomastia surgery, which could help to improve your self-esteem and quality of life.

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What Can You Expect During Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery?

August 14, 2016/0 Comments/in Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Are you tired of having male breasts?

As a man, you’re expected to be able to take your shirt off in public without feeling self-conscious.

You want to wear T-shirts without your nipples showing through.

That’s not even mentioning the embarrassment that can accompany getting intimate with a new partner for the first time.

If you are ready to say “Adios” to your male breasts for good, it sounds like you might be a good candidate for a male breast reduction procedure.

Gynecomastia surgery is a relatively painless and quick procedure, and the downtime is minimal compared to other operations of its kind.

If you are gearing up for surgery, you probably have plenty of questions. The following should provide the answers, allowing you to have a quick, safe and successful recovery from this life-changing operation.

What Does the Surgery Involve?

Gynecomastia surgery is an outpatient procedure. That means that you will be in an out of the facility the same day.

In most cases, the male breast reduction surgery requires a general anesthetic and involves liposuction of the breast area combined with removal of excess breast tissue. The entire procedure takes about an hour to complete.

How Long Should You Ask Off from Work?

Most patients want to know how long they will be away from the job. You should probably ask your boss for about a 5 to 7-day leave.

Obviously, if you work at a job that has you lifting heavy materials, such as construction, you may want to ask for more time off.

If you work a desk job, you could be back to work within a couple of days.

The Recovery Process

You should allow about 4-6 weeks for your body to heal from male breast reduction surgery.
The length of time required before you are back to normal will depend on the severity of your condition and your body’s ability to heal quickly.

Here is a general rundown of the recovery process.

The first three days are crucial. This is the time when you should be doing the most resting.

To ensure that you don’t hinder the healing process, it’s best to walk around the house and engage in deep breathing exercises for the first 72 hours.

During this time, you may feel a slight amount of pain and tightness in your chest area. Your surgeon will likely provide, or recommend that you take, pain medication, which should be tapered off within a week’s time.

After 7 to 10 days, you will have a follow-up visit with your plastic surgeon to ensure that you are healing properly.

How to Assist the Healing Process

There are some things you can do at home to make sure you recover fully.
First, make sure that you are drinking plenty of water.

You should also try to stay away from high-sodium foods.

Your surgeon will probably make you wear a chest compression pad that will be worn for a couple of weeks following surgery.

This garment is critical to the healing process and should not be removed for any reason. Doing so could set your recovery back and keep you from experiencing the excellent results you expect.

The purpose of the compression pad is to help reduce any swelling that may occur and to help the skin adjust to your chest’s new contours.

When Can You Become Active Again?

After the initial recovery period, you should be able to return to normal activities after just a few days.

This doesn’t mean that you can start hitting the gym.

Aerobic activity and heavy lifting should be limited for at least four weeks.

Some patients find that they cannot return to their regular weight lifting activities until about a month or more following surgery. Again, this depends on your body’s natural healing ability.

When Can You Work Out Heavily Again?

If you’re anxious to get back to the gym, after 14 days, you can begin testing the waters to see if you are fully healed.

To begin, start off with some walking or light jogging.

After a month’s time, you can increase the intensity of your workouts, but you should still refrain from doing heavy lifting with your chest or shoulder muscles.

In two months’ time, you could very well be back to your regular gym routine.

Go easy on the bench press and military press, and all other chest and shoulder workouts, until you’re absolutely sure that there is no soreness or pulling in those areas.

Your Doctor’s Post-Op Plan

Your doctor will not perform surgery on you and then send you on your way to fend for yourself.

Instead, you will receive a post-operation plan that will include what you should do to enhance your recovery, including when you should rest, what you should eat, and how you should work out.

Be sure that you ask your doctor if you have any questions or if you plan to engage in any activities that you are unsure of.

If you want the best from your male breast reduction surgery, it is important that you follow your doctor’s orders, and rest aplenty.

In no time, you’ll have the chest you’ve always wanted ever since gynecomastia reared its ugly head.

To learn more about gynecomastia surgery and how it can help you reduce your male breasts so that you can gain your confidence back while getting more out of life, contact Dr. Ali today to schedule a consultation.

hands in blue gloves hold attractive young male face

Top Cosmetic Surgery Procedures for Men

January 26, 2016/0 Comments/in Facial Filler, Male Breast Reduction /by admin

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Plastic surgery used to be thought of as only for women. If a male had plastic surgery, he often hid it and often chalked his new look to a better diet or exercise. But today, more men are opting for cosmetic procedures and don’t feel the need to hide it.

“I have many male patients coming to me who want to look great, and don’t believe plastic surgery should be relegated to only women,” says Dr. Ali. “I think that’s wonderful! We all want to look and feel our best, so why not have a procedure done if it makes you feel better?”

What procedures are men opting for? While the results for 2015 are still being calculated, the top five cosmetic surgeries for men in 2014 were:

1. Eyelid surgery
The eyes are often considered the window to the face. As we age, our eyes are often the first place to show it. Loose, furrowed eyebrows can make us look older than we actually are, and in some cases can give a patient an angry or tired look.

An eyelid procedure can remove the excess fatty tissue and tighten the skin and muscles around the eye, giving you a refreshed appearance.

2. Liposuction
Women aren’t the only ones plagued by stubborn deposits of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Men find as they age, they fall prey to the dreaded “spare tire,” or deposits of fat that settle around their mid-section. If you’ve tried diet and exercise, yet you still can’t seem to get rid of that fat, liposuction may be the ideal solution for you.

Liposuction should not be used as a weight loss tool, but rather to contour the body. Once you’ve seen everything you can accomplish through diet and exercise, a consultation with Dr. Ali can show you what liposuction can add. A smoother, sleeker frame can be achieved, with final results taking between six weeks and two months following the procedure.

3. Rhinoplasty
Nose surgery is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed. You want to have a proportionate and symmetrical look to your face, and if you don’t like what you see in the mirror, a nose job may be able to correct that.

Rhinoplasty can alter the size, shape and/or function of the nose. Some patients find that the surgery alleviates breathing problems because it can correct a deviated septum or offer better support to other areas of the nose.

4. Male breast reduction
Gynecomastia is a male breast reduction procedure. While some men have enlarged breast tissue due to disease or a metabolic condition, other men may notice excess tissue as they age.

If you’re embarrassed to remove your shirt because you’ve noticed your chest seems to have accumulated excess fat and tissue, a male breast reduction may be right for you. Men in their late 40s and 50s often turn to Dr. Ali to restore chest tone they’ve lost over the years.

5. Facelift
Women aren’t the only ones who want their face to reflect how they feel on the inside. If you feel refreshed and vigorous on the inside, but your face is telling a different story, a facelift can be the answer you’re looking for.

As we age, our face can lose skin elasticity and the fatty deposits that provide a full, youthful look can begin to disappear. The result can be hollow cheeks, drooping eyes, and jowls.

A facelift can correct that, and when combined with other procedures, such as an eyelid surgery or brow lift, the result can be a youthful, refreshed look.

6. Injectables and fillers
It’s not just women who want to restore a youthful appearance to their face. Men, too, want to turn back the hands of time, and love the results a liquid facelift can provide. Fillers and injectables can provide plumping, smoothing and contouring that restore a youthful appearance. It’s a great non-invasive, but temporary, way to camouflage the effects of aging.

In 2014, men had more than a million cosmetic procedures performed. Dr. Ali expects to see the number of men opting for plastic surgery procedures to update their looks to continue to rise. If you are interested in what Dr. Ali can do for you, schedule a consultation today.

What Causes Male Breast Enlargement?

December 6, 2015/0 Comments/in Male Breast Reduction, Plastic Surgery /by admin

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Are you a male who suffers from enlarged breast tissue? You’re not alone – one in four men over the age of 50 suffer from the condition known as gynecomastia. But what causes it?

“Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, is triggered by a decrease in testosterone,” says Dr. Ali, a Michigan plastic surgeon. “Normal hormone changes can cause the condition, as well as medications, drug and alcohol use, and certain health conditions.”

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of glandular tissue within the male breast, and can happen during infancy and puberty in normally-developing boys. In these instances, hormonal fluctuations trigger it, and it will ease on its own, typically within six months to two years. The instances of gynecomastia then peaks again in men between the ages of 50 and 80, as testosterone levels naturally begin to decrease.

There are also several medications that can cause the condition. They include:

Anti-androgens that are used to treat prostate conditions such as enlarged prostate and prostate cancer.
Anabolic steroids and androgens
AIDS medications, such as highly activeretroviral therapy and efavirenz.
Anti-anxiety medications, such as valium
Antidepressants
Ulcer medications
Chemotherapy
Heart medications and calcium channel blockers

Additionally, certain medical conditions can cause gynecomastia because they affect the body’s normal hormone balance. They include:

Aging – normal aging brings about hormonal chances that can trigger gynecomastia, especially in overweight men.
Tumors, especially involving the testes, adrenal or pituitary glands, can result in the production of hormones that will alter the body’s balance.
Hyperthyroidism results in too much thyroxine being produced.
Kidney failure
Liver failure and cirrhosis
Malnutrition and starvation can cause a significant drop in testosterone levels, while estrogen levels remain the same.

The use of controlled substances, such as alcohol, amphetamines, marijuana, heroin and methadone can also lead to enlarged male breasts.

The symptoms of gynecomastia are enlarged male breasts, caused by enlargement of the glandular tissue, not the fatty tissue. It may result in a rubbery or firm feel, and typically occurs on both sides. There may be some sensitivity or tenderness, but no pain should be present.

“Gynecomastia should not be mistaken for male breast cancer,” says Dr. Ali. “Male breast cancer accounts for about one percent of all breast cancer diagnoses, and will typically be found on only one side. The breast will feel hard or firm at the location of the cancerous tumor, and there can be dimpling of the skin, retraction of the nipple, enlargement of the lymph nodes and/or a discharge from the nipple.”

If you have concerns about whether your condition is gynecomastia or male breast cancer, consult a physician immediately.

Gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction, can reduce the size of the breast, while also flattening and enhancing the contours of the chest. For severe cases of gynecomastia that have also stretched the areola, a trained surgeon can also resize and reposition the areola, while reducing excess skin.

“Reduction mammoplasty offers excellent results in men who have severe gynecomastia or who have suffered from the condition for a long time,” says Dr. Ali. “In some cases, drug therapy may work to reduce the size of the male breast, but in many cases, surgery is the best option.”

For many men, gynecomastia is a source of embarrassment. It can be stressful, leading a man to attempt to hide it and making romance and everyday life more difficult. If you suffer from gynecomastia and are ready to regain your confidence, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali today.

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