What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can be defined as an uncharacteristic development of the breast tissue in males, leading to enlarged breasts. For men who suffer from this condition, daily life can be quite difficult. Many men who suffer from gynecomastia experience diminished self-esteem, and anxiety in normal situations such as spending a day at the beach or changing in a locker room after a game.
Dr. Berardi understands the frustrations that can come with abnormally sized breasts and therefore provides the treatment of male cosmetic surgery patients need to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. Read through the paragraphs below to learn more about male breast reduction surgery in Scottsdale, AZ.
About the Male Breast Reduction Procedure
Your male breast reduction procedure will vary based on the severity of gynecomastia and the type of excess tissue that is present in the breast. If the excess tissue is primarily fat, Dr. Berardi will use liposuction to remove it. This involves a small incision near the areola and the use of a cannula, through which fat is suctioned out of the body. If excess tissue in your breast consists of fat and fibrous tissues, Dr. Berardi will remove it through a combination of liposuction and the use of a scalpel. This procedure is more in-depth and may involve a larger incision on the breast depending on how much needs to be removed.
Gynecomastia treatment can be performed under general anesthesia, a decision which will be made during your comprehensive pre-surgery consultation. Once the extra tissue is removed from the breast area, Dr. Berardi will close the incision with sutures. He will also place the chest in garments for extra support and control of swelling.
Male Breast Reduction Patient Recovery
Gynecomastia treatment is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to return home on the same day as surgery. You should expect to experience swelling and mild discomfort for a few days after surgery. You will be encouraged to wear a chest garment and to walk around in the days after your gynecomastia surgery to promote proper healing. The compression garment will be worn for a period of six weeks. You may return to work about one week after surgery, but strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for three weeks.
Dr. Berardi will provide you with thorough post-operative instructions as well as any necessary medication to make your recovery period as safe and comfortable as possible. After the recovery period, many patients find that their quality of life improves as they are more comfortable and confident on a daily basis.
Gynecomastia Surgery & Treatment Candidates
To be considered for gynecomastia treatment, it is important that you are in general good health and are at a stable weight, as weight fluctuations can diminish the results of the procedure. Hormones that are present during puberty can cause enlarged breasts but typically diminish within two years.
As such, you should be at least 18 years of age before considering male breast reduction surgery. The patient should be evaluated by their primary care physician (PCP) for other causes of gynecomastia prior to undergoing surgery. During your pre-surgery consultation, Dr. Berardi will evaluate your overall health and cosmetic goals to determine if you are an ideal male breast reduction candidate.
Schedule a Consultation Today in Scottsdale
If you are unhappy with your appearance due to excessively large breasts, plastic surgeon Dr. Berardi can provide the treatment you need to look and feel your best. Call Berardi Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery today at 480.397.0711 to learn more or contact us to schedule a comprehensive consultation. Our practice serves Scottsdale, Phoenix and the surrounding areas of Phoenix.