Gynecomastia is enlargement or swelling of the breast tissues in men. It can affect one or both breasts. Patients experiencing gynecomastia in Nashville often come to Cool Springs Plastic Surgery to have the issue corrected.
This condition is quite common; many men find themselves with a great amount of excess breast tissue around their chest or experience “puffier” nipples. This condition can be genetic or caused by an imbalance of estrogen and testosterone following puberty.
As gynecomastia cannot be corrected with exercise, most men with this condition are left searching for other solutions. Fortunately, most men with this condition are candidates for gynecomastia surgery, a surgical removal of the breast tissue, in addition to liposuction, to restore a more masculine shape to the chest.
Men anywhere from late teens to their 80’s can be candidates for this type of surgical procedure. Men who have tried non-surgical treatment options and lifestyle changes without seeing results are the best candidates for gynecomastia surgery, also called male breast reduction.
Ideal candidates for gynecomastia surgery are in good overall health. Good candidates have realistic expectations for the procedure’s results and are non-smokers. Smoking negatively affects the body’s healing process, leading to a higher chance of complications. It also reduces skin elasticity, leading to drooping skin.
At the time of your consultation, you will meet with your chosen board certified plastic surgeon who will talk with you about your goals and the best way to achieve your desired outcomes. Our goal is to make sure every one of your questions is answered, and you feel comfortable with your knowledge of the procedure. In your initial consultation, one of our surgeons will evaluate your health, discuss your medical history and carefully assess the areas of concern. He will then review your goals and make recommendations based on his evaluation. The techniques used in the gynecomastia procedure will be described in detail, and informational materials will be provided. Be sure to tell the doctor if you smoke or are taking any medications, vitamins or other drugs.
You will have a Patient Care Coordinator who will work closely with you through your entire time in our practice, serving as your resource for any questions or concerns you have along the way. After your time talking with the surgeon, your Patient Coordinator will provide you with a detailed, written estimate of surgical fees for your procedure at the time of your initial consultation at Cool Springs Plastic Surgery in Nashville, Tennessee. She will assist you in selecting a date for your surgery, convenient for your schedule. Your Patient Care Coordinator will also inform you about all payment options available in our office. Information regarding “Payment Options” are detailed under the “About” tab at the top of our web page.
At the start of gynecomastia surgery, anesthesia is administered. This ensures a comfortable surgical process without pain or discomfort.
Depending on the composition of the patient’s tissues, two main techniques may be employed. For patients whose gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue (pseudogynecomastia), liposuction is utilized. This involves insertion of a cannula (a thin tube with a sharp end) and removal of fat via medical suction.
For patients whose gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess glandular breast tissue, excision is utilized. This process involves the creation of incisions in the chest area and then removal of glandular tissue using a scalpel.
Excess skin is often removed from the chest as well, and the areolae may need to be resized. Once the procedure is complete, incisions are closed with stitches.
Once your gynecomastia surgery is complete, the recovery process will begin. During this process, it will be important to follow your doctor’s post-surgical care instructions as closely as possible. This will ensure quality results and will lower the chances of post-surgical complications.
An elastic garment must be worn for a time. This controls swelling and helps the skin better conform to the new underlying contours of the chest. Bruising will also be present but will fade in time.
Patients must typically take time off from work until cleared to return. They must avoid physically taxing activities like heavy lifting and sports for several weeks.
Your Patient Coordinator will provide you with a detailed, written estimate of fees for your procedure at the time of your initial consultation at Cool Springs Plastic Surgery. Your “Estimate of Surgical Fees” will include: surgeon’s fee, operating room and the anesthesiologist’s fee.
To learn more about treatment for gynecomastia in Nashville, please contact us today for a consultation. Our skilled surgeons will be happy to tell you more about the treatment process and can answer any questions you may have.