For many, gynecomastia can create feelings of insecurity, frustration, and even disappointment when healthy lifestyle habits do not reduce the condition. It can lead to embarrassment, especially in certain social settings. And for some, gynecomastia can even cause long-term body image issues.
At Lee Plastic Surgery, we believe everyone deserves to take on each day with confidence. For many, this elevated self-esteem starts with surgical solutions for gynecomastia near Palm City. Dr. S. Darrell. Lee has perfected his gynecomastia procedure techniques, helping countless patients create their best selves and overcome the condition.
Continue reading to learn more about gynecomastia and the surgery process. If you want to begin creating your customized procedure plan, visit our website, call our team or schedule your comprehensive consultation.
Defining Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia occurs when a male’s breast tissues become enlarged. This condition affects men of all ages, but it most often occurs during puberty and during older adulthood.
Hormone imbalances often cause male breast tissue enlargement, particularly when estrogen increases and testosterone decreases. Factors that cause these imbalances can range from genetics to major weight gain to andropause. Certain medications and other health conditions can also affect hormone levels.
Many patients with gynecomastia describe feeling a button-sized lump directly underneath the nipple. You may be able to see this lump with the naked eye and feel it when you press on the area. Other gynecomastia symptoms include:
- Tender breasts
- Sensitive nipples
- Swollen breast tissue
- Pain
While gynecomastia affects 50% of males at some point during their life, male breast cancer can also cause excess tissue growth. Even though the likelihood of this condition is far smaller, we recommend scheduling a physical examination with your primary care provider to rule out male breast cancer before committing to any cosmetic procedure.
Ideal Candidates for Gynecomastia Surgery
The best candidates for gynecomastia surgery are those who feel unsatisfied with the appearance of their chest. This includes patients who avoid taking their shirt off in public settings or feel self-conscious about wearing tight clothing.
Patients with gynecomastia caused by a hormonal imbalance typically cannot eliminate the condition through weight loss efforts. We recommend surgery to patients who have not been able to reduce the size of their breast tissues through a healthy diet and exercise alone.
Though procedures for gynecomastia near Palm City can significantly reduce chest size and contours, we urge patients to set realistic expectations before entering surgery. Results can vary depending on your skin elasticity, tissue composition and overall body structure.
When you understand the results you can expect before going into gynecomastia surgery, you can experience a smoother recovery and greater satisfaction.
The Procedure Process at Lee Plastic Surgery
You deserve masculine, defined pectorals that complement your lifestyle. Dr. Lee wants to help you overcome gynecomastia, achieve your aesthetic goals and feel assured in your reflection once again.
Here is a comprehensive overview of what you can expect from the gynecomastia procedure process when you choose our team of experts.
Initial Evaluation
Before setting foot into the operating room, you first schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Lee. During this appointment, you and Dr. Lee discuss your symptoms and how gynecomastia impacts your self-esteem. He also asks you to describe your goal outcomes from surgery.
Next, Dr. Lee runs through your medical history to rule out any underlying conditions potentially causing your gynecomastia. He may ask that you schedule a physical examination and lab work with your primary care physician. Also, come prepared to answer questions about previous weight loss attempts and any medications you take.
Using the information from your consultation, you and Dr. Lee work together to create your personalized procedure plan. This plan outlines specific techniques used during your surgery and other miscellaneous details.
Preparing for Surgery
Leading up to your procedure for gynecomastia near Palm City, you must maintain a stable, healthy weight to create better surgical results. We recommend you quit smoking and vaping to reduce your risk of complications.
You also need to arrange a ride home from our in-office surgical suite after your gynecomastia procedure. Dr. Lee highly recommends having someone stay with you throughout the first day of recovery to monitor your condition and help as needed.
Finally, follow all preparation instructions Dr. Lee gives you. This guide should cover everything from fasting instructions to the essentials you need to prepare for your recovery.
Gynecomastia Procedure
Once you arrive for your procedure, Dr. Lee administers general anesthesia or IV sedation. General anesthesia renders complete unconsciousness using gases or vapors delivered through a breathing mask, while sedation uses an IV to make you feel drowsy and numb. Your anesthesia type depends on the extent and nature of your surgery plan.
Most procedures for gynecomastia near Palm City involve some combination of liposuction and an inferior peri areolar incision. Liposuction pairs a cannula and vacuum suction to precisely remove pockets of unwanted fat. This portion of the procedure primarily targets fat cells that have not responded to traditional weight loss efforts.
Dr. Lee also makes an inferior periareolar incision along the edge of the areola. This incision allows him to easily access and remove excess breast tissues.
Many procedures for gynecomastia near Palm City take 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Your surgery timeline may vary depending on your specific aesthetic goals.
Making a Full Recovery
Immediately after your procedure, a member of our team moves you into a recovery room and monitors you as you wake up from anesthesia. Dr. Lee also stops by to provide you with a detailed recovery guide.
We recommend patients take 3 to 7 days to recuperate and recover from their gynecomastia procedure. During this time, take a break from all strenuous activities to avoid compromising your results. You also need to care for your incisions as recommended in your post-procedure instructions.
As you recover from gynecomastia surgery, we recommend going on slow, short walks to promote circulation and mitigate your risk of developing blood clots. Be sure to avoid raising your arms over your head during the first week of your recovery to prevent from putting tension on your incisions.
Swelling and discomfort are common side effects of gynecomastia surgery, but Dr. Lee gives you a prescription to manage these symptoms. We also recommend wearing your compression garments at all times, taking them off only when bathing, to reduce swelling.
Be sure to eat well and hydrate throughout your recovery. Continue to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption to speed up the healing process..
Lasting Results
Most patients notice a change in the shape of their chest immediately after surgery, but it may take a few months for swelling to go down and your chest tissues to heal completely. Many enjoy tighter, sculpted pectorals within 3 to 6 months after their operation.
Gynecomastia surgery results are permanent as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle after your procedure. We recommend following a nutritious eating plan, getting plenty of physical activity and incorporating other healthy lifestyle habits into your daily routine.
Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions
Undergoing cosmetic surgery requires a significant commitment. This decision involves extensive planning, recovery and an in-depth understanding of the procedure process.
At Lee Plastic Surgery, we provide thorough patient education and the highest-quality care. Here are a few more details on the surgery process for gynecomastia near Palm City to ensure you enter the operating room fully informed.
Will I have scars after gynecomastia surgery?
Yes, you will have small scars after gynecomastia surgery, but Dr. Lee specializes in placing these incisions in discrete areas. These scars also fade with time and throughout the healing process.
Dr Lee provides scar care recommendations during your follow-up appointments after your procedure.
How soon can I exercise again?
We clear most patients for light walking and exercise within a few days after their procedure. However, we recommend waiting 4 to 6 weeks to do any weight lifting or chest exercises that may compromise your results.
Will insurance cover gynecomastia surgery?
We offer a variety of financing options, so you can afford the treatments you need. We work with 2 platforms:
- CareCredit – Offers a variety of flexible payment plans that include manageable monthly installments. No upfront payments or annual fees.
- Alphaeon Credit – Includes significant credit lines that are accepted by a variety of providers. Quick and easy application process.
Gynecomastia Solutions at Lee Plastic Surgery
When gynecomastia prevents you from feeling confident at the beach or in tight clothing, Dr. Lee can create defined pectorals. With surgery for gynecomastia near Palm City, creating a stronger chest and achieving your aesthetic goals has never been easier.
Visit our website or give us a call to learn what sets us apart at Lee Plastic Surgery.
Want to discover other options for plastic surgery, like a brow lift or eyelid lift? Head over to our blog for more information.
