Although male breast reduction is not a new procedure, a recent increase in the demand for this surgery has brought it into the spotlight. The demand for male breast reductions stems from a prevalent condition called gynecomastia. Performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons, a male breast reduction is nothing to be ashamed of. The increasing numbers of surgery could help remove its stigma as we learn more about what’s causing it.
About Gynecomastia
Exclusively effecting males, gynecomastia is a medical condition that results in enlarged male breasts. Hormone imbalances or therapies can cause this excess tissue to be produced, creating actual breasts on the male chest. So far, doctors do not completely understand what causes the condition, although certain drugs and other medical conditions can be linked to an increased risk of developing gynecomastia. Roughly 40 to 60 percent of all men have developed some degree of gynecomastia, ranging from very subtle to very acute.
Gynecomastia can develop at any age, affecting newborn males, teens during puberty, and older men most often. These three life stages are marked by changing hormones in the body, leading to the appearance of breasts and creation of actual breast tissue. Gynecomastia can develop even in patients who are physically fit and at a healthy weight. The condition is not tied to being overweight or obese, but excess weight can definitely exaggerate male breasts.
The Effects of Gynecomastia
At first glance, gynecomastia seems like a purely physiological condition that poses no immediate health risks to its patients. The major issues that stem from gynecomastia are poor self-esteem and a negative self-image, often affecting patients’ emotional and mental health. When males at any age develop “man boobs,” they often become the subject of teasing from friends and family, co-workers, acquaintances, and even complete strangers. These men might be called girly, wimpy, fat, out of shape, and more. The psychological impact of gynecomastia is difficult to measure but there is no doubt that this condition can have tremendously negative effects.
Reversing Gynecomastia’s Effects
A traditional female and male breast reduction are both performed in much the same way and with the same goal in mind: to remove breast tissue and alleviate the strain that overly large breasts can cause. The breast reduction procedure includes the removal of fat cells and glandular tissue in order to create a more natural looking chest. For men, this means reshaping the chest to be as flat as possible. Your plastic surgeon will create a firmer, more suitable look to complement your physique.
After your male breast reduction, take proper care of yourself to ensure your complete recovery and successful results. Avoid very strenuous activities, get plenty of rest, and follow your plastic surgeon’s orders carefully. You will likely experience some discomfort and moderate pain as you heal, so take your pain medication as directed and take measures to reduce the swelling of your chest during your early recovery.
Candidates for Gynecomastia
Men who are experiencing the effects of gynecomastia can all be considered for male breast reduction surgery. If you have concerns about an increase of tissue on your chest or clearly defined male breasts, you should consult with a plastic surgeon to discuss your options. To undergo any plastic surgery, you should be in good physical health, not be a smoker, and have reasonable expectations about your post-surgical results. There is not a specific age criteria to meet for male breast reduction. All prospective patients are evaluated on an individual basis for surgery.
When you consult with Dr. Rubinstein about your male breast reduction surgery, he will use the VECTRA 3D Imaging system to create a visual representation of your expected results, using a 3D photograph of you. He will then make the changes necessary to the image and display an approximate result for you to see for yourself. Not only will you be excited for the results of your male breast reduction, but you’ll be able to rest assured that there won’t be any miscommunications between you and your surgeon.
Schedule Your Male Breast Reduction Consultation Today
Contact Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists, where Dr. Ran Rubinstein can help you to achieve the surgical results you desire.
To contact Dr. Rubinstein, please call 845-863-1772. Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists is located at 200 Stony Brook Court #2 in Newburgh, New York.
