Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia, meaning “womanish breasts,” is a word that traces its origin back to ancient Greece. It is used to describe a condition suffered by men of all ages and backgrounds who have an excess of fatty and/or breast tissue in their chest area, so much so that they appear to have breasts. This can be especially embarrassing and anxiety-provoking, especially in situations where men tend to go shirtless, such as in the locker room or at the beach.

Men with gynecomastia may be so self-conscious that they wear baggy clothing to cover their bodies, even when being intimate with their partners. Although the cause of gynecomastia usually remains unknown, sometimes hormonal imbalances, drug or alcohol use, some types of cancer and steroids can be the source. With anywhere from 40-60% of men experiencing this condition, it is exceedingly common, and may not even necessarily coincide with being overweight. It is most commonly seen in adolescent boys and middle-aged men. If there are no concerning reasons for gynecomastia found, surgical treatment can be considered. Gynecomastia surgery represents an extremely effective method of reshaping and resculpting the male chest for a more attractive and masculine physique. The procedure generally involves liposuction, and in some cases excision of excess skin and tissue via an inconspicuous incision at the nipple, resulting in firm, toned contours and renewed self-confidence.

A Good Candidate For Gynecomastia Surgery…

is looking to reduce the size of enlarged, fatty breasts
wishes to correct asymmetry in the chest area
has already tried diet and exercise with little to no results
is both physically and mentally healthy
has reasonable expectations for improvement rather than perfection
is not morbidly obese
Has no source or medical origin for the problem

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Patients from Charlotte, Gastonia, Shelby, Hickory, Lake Norman and surrounding cities are at a unique advantage when it comes to body sculpting at one of our PPSD clinics. Our specialized team of board-certified plastic surgeons offer one of the widest ranges of integrated services available in the entire country, and all under one roof. This means that not only can our doctors perform outstanding gynecomastia surgery, they can follow up with such game-changing innovations as Coolsculpting or laser therapy for a more comprehensive male makeover.

Your male breast reduction surgery begins with a confidential consultation with a plastic surgeon who truly puts your needs and wishes first. Your doctor will examine your medical history and may conduct a series of tests to determine the cause of your gynecomastia.

Once the doctor has come up with the ideal treatment plan customized to your physique, he will present it to you in full detail so that you can move forward, confident in your expectations for the future.

Meet Our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons

Dr. Swank discusses the increased trend of men having plastic surgery on Charlotte Today

What Can I Expect From The Procedure?

Gynecomastia surgery is performed at one of our state-of-the-art, AAAASF-accredited surgical facilities in Charlotte, Gastonia, Shelby, Hickory, Lake Norman and surrounding cities. One of PPSD’s friendly, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists will ensure your complete comfort during the procedure. Surgery typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity of your condition. The surgeon will first make a small incision at the areola, through which he or she will excise glandular tissue, excess skin and fat from the breasts. If liposuction is also required, a thin cannula will be threaded through the incision in order to perform suction of the target areas. In some cases, the nipple may need to be repositioned or re-sized as a final step. The incisions are then and the chest may be bound in order to facilitate faster healing. PPSD doctors will always strive for the most minimal scarring possible.

What Does Recovery from Male Breast Reduction Entail?

Although you may experience some discomfort, swelling and/or bruising for several days after receiving liposuction or excision, our team of caring nurses and physicians will do everything possible to make your recovery pleasant and swift. This includes providing pain medications, ice packs, and a clear aftercare plan.

A return to exercising and work is typically undertaken with a week or so. Patients should temporarily avoid the sun for several months, as too much exposure can cause scar pigment to darken. It’s important to remember that although your outstanding results may be visible right away, the final outcome may take 3-6 months to fully materialize.

Gynecomastia

A Good Candidate For Gynecomastia Surgery…

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Swank discusses the increased trend of men having plastic surgery on Charlotte Today

What Can I Expect From The Procedure?

What Does Recovery from Male Breast Reduction Entail?

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Belmont

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