Gynecomastia

A signature of male fitness is tight, square pectoral muscles. Enlarged breasts, however, affect between 40% and 60% of men. This can be a source of embarrassment and create anxiety and self-confidence issues.

Men who have developed female-like breasts, or “man boobs,” usually suffer from a condition known as gynecomastia, which causes the chest to develop hard, glandular tissue behind the nipples as well as excess fat. Gynecomastia is not your fault, and it can be corrected!

Causes of Gynecomastia

This problem often manifests during the teenage years, and it may be caused by one or several factors such as:

Genetics
Obesity
Medication containing steroids
Hormonal imbalance
Steroid use
Aging process

In most cases, the cause of breast development in men is unknown, but it can be treated. When left untreated, it has the potential to lead to low self-esteem or depression, and it can impact the quality of life.

Male Plastic Surgery

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Gynecomastia Treatment

Dr. Shapiro typically uses VASER Liposculpture to perform male breast reduction. This type of liposuction uses ultrasonic energy to melt fat so it may be suctioned from the chest for permanent results. This procedure is an option for patients with gynecomastia that consists of excess fatty tissue.

Dr. Shapiro regularly uses VASER Liposculpture for problems just like this. This specialized form of liposuction uses ultrasonic energy to melt fat before it is easily removed by suction from the chest. Once the extra fat is removed, it is gone forever.

In the case of “true” gynecomastia, in which hard glandular tissue has developed, these glands will be removed. Any palpable nodules that may have developed behind the nipples will also be removed with a circular incision around the nipple. This leaves a scar that is nearly invisible.

Once the fat is removed and glandular tissue excised, the chest may seem deflated. Dr. Shapiro then sculpts the chest into a tighter and more fit appearance. By injecting the patient’s own fat into, above, and below the pectoral muscle, Dr. Shapiro can sculpt a masculine muscular structure for optimal results.

In extreme cases in which a large amount of fat or glandular tissue has been removed, some excess skin must be removed to allow the remaining skin to readjust and firm to the new contour. When VASER lipo is used, it helps to pull the skin tighter after the procedure. Tighter skin over tight muscles creates a very defined and athletic appearance with absolutely no more “man boobs.” The surgery typically takes one to two hours and may be performed under general anesthesia.

Explore Our Gynecomastia Before & After

Patient is a 50-year-old male with long standing fullness of the breasts since he was a teenager, and fullness of his abdomen, back, and flanks with a desire to improve his body contour. He had diligently tried various diets and exercise but could not seem to get the improvement he desired. He is 6’5” and weighs 240lbs.

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Before

After

Recovery

Patients wear a compression garment for three to six weeks after the surgery, which keeps incision sites stable and prevents a build-up of fluids that may cause complications. This compression garment also aids in a speedy recovery and makes the results of the procedure more permanent.

Depending on the extent of the procedure, some patients experience bruising and mild discomfort afterward. Dr. Shapiro can prescribe oral pain medication to relieve any discomfort. Most patients resume work and normal activities within five days. Swelling usually lasts for up to three weeks but gradually dissipates to reveal the final results.

Risks

No surgery is free of risks. When male breast reduction surgery is performed by an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Shapiro, complications are uncommon and typically minor. Risks of this procedure include infection, bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and an accumulation of fluid.

The procedure can also result in asymmetry or noticeable scars. Temporary side effects include loss of sensation or numbness in the treatment area, which typically goes away within a year.

Are You a Candidate?

This procedure may be performed on healthy men who have realistic expectations. The ideal candidate for this procedure has firm skin with good elasticity to help reshape the contours. Obese or overweight men who have not attempted to correct the problem through weight loss and exercise may not be good candidates.

Before & After

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Meet Dr. Daniel Shapiro

A world-class plastic surgeon in a league of his own.

Dr. Shapiro is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon with nearly three decades of experience in his field. With impressive technical skill and a talent for creating natural-looking results, his practice has become a leading destination for discerning patients throughout the country.

Known for his compassion and honesty, Dr. Shapiro strives to educate his patients so that they are empowered about their care. He carefully explains the procedures, expected results, and techniques in a way that anyone can understand. Additionally, he personally guides his clients every step of the way – from the initial consultation to their post-operative care – to ensure an enjoyable experience and the best possible results.