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.