Male Breast Reduction
There’s no need to suffer in silence. In most cases, gynecomastia is the result of a genetic predisposition, but men may develop enlarged breast tissue for other reasons including hormonal fluctuations, alcohol or drug abuse, medications, and other health conditions. We understand that the social embarrassment of having enlarged breasts can be a barrier to participating in sports, fitting into clothes, and developing intimate relationships. To us, gynecomastia surgery is so much more than just a cosmetic concern.
Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” Though this oddly named condition is rarely talked about, it’s actually quite common. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It may affect only one breast or both. Though certain drugs and medical problems have been linked with male breast overdevelopment, there is no known cause in the vast majority of cases.
For men who feel self-conscious about their appearance, breast-reduction surgery can help. The procedure removes fat and or glandular tissue from the breasts, and in extreme cases removes excess skin, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer, and better contoured.
If you’re considering surgery to correct gynecomastia, a private consultation with Dr. Ricciardelli will give you more information on how it’s performed and what results you can expect.
Is gynecomastia surgery for me?
Enlargement in the breast is often a normal result of hormonal changes in teenage boys and will usually resolve with time For this reason, Dr. Ricciardelli generally does not recommend surgery for most teenagers with gynecomastia. If the condition persists, however, most men are candidates for this surgery as long an underlying hormonal imbalance is not to blame.
Can I have another procedure done at the same time?
Yes. This surgery is often combined with a blepharoplasty, liposuction in abdomen or flanks, and other areas. Many men take advantage of lower pricing and less time spent away from work by combining procedures. Ask Dr. Ricciardelli about other procedures during your consultation.
What do I need to do before surgery?
At your consultation, Dr. Ricciardelli will discuss your medical history to determine the underlying cause for your condition. Specific tests may be recommended to rule out certain hormonal causes. Dr. Ricciardelli will examine your breasts to determine the distribution of excess fat and glandular tissue. If you are currently trying to lose weight, Dr. Ricciardelli will discuss your <em>realistic</em> weight loss goals and how that might affect your surgery. Male breast reduction is achieved most commonly by liposuction with the excision of firm breast tissue beneath the areola. Once the excess fat is taken out the skin will retract over the course of six to twelve weeks resulting in a smaller, flatter breast. Dr. Ricciardelli makes every effort to make the smallest incision possible while giving you the result you desire.
What can I expect during and after surgery?
Your privacy and safety are very important to us. On the day of your surgery you will park in a designated, convenience space in back of the Summit building close to the private back door entrance of our office. Your surgery will most likely take one and a half to two hours in our AAASF (Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) certified operating suite. After the procedure, you will wake up in our warm and caring recovery suite. Our recovery nurse will make sure that you are comfortable and inform your designated driver when you are ready to return to the comfort of your own home that day. You will be given detailed instructions for your specific needs. Most patients describe the pain as a mild discomfort that is easily controlled with mild pain medication. On average, most patients are able to return to work in 1-5 days and to begin light exercise in 2 weeks. We recommend that you wear a compression garment for 1-2 weeks after your surgery to improve your results. You will be seen back in the office a few days after surgery. Expect to have possible bruising, swelling and tenderness of the breasts for a week or two. Dr. Ricciardelli will call you in the evening to check-in on your progress as well as see you back in the office for your post-operative visits. Our door is always open for any questions.
Why choose Summit Plastic Surgery & Dermatology?
It’s about confidence: confidence in your surgeon, confidence that your wishes and individual concerns will be heard, and confidence you will get the results you want. Dr. Ricciardelli has the experience and reputation that ensures you are trusting in a surgeon with a known track record in Wilmington and the qualifications and certifications that recognize him on a regional and national level.
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Ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation now!
At your consultation you’ll meet with one of our surgeons and we’ll discuss all of your options and answer all of your questions.
Meet Dr. Edward Ricciardelli
Dr. Edward Ricciardelli is one of the most highly trained plastic surgeons in the country. He is the only plastic surgeon in the area who is board certified in both head, neck, and facial surgery and plastic surgery. He has been performing facial surgery for over 29 years. During that time he has taught and trained other plastic and facial surgeons, lectured around the country, given courses on facial surgery, and cared for thousands of surgical patients. Read more…
