What is chest contouring (gynecomastia)?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement or overdevelopment of breast in men It is common in men of any age. Adolescents may benefit from correction but secondary procedures may be needed in the future should breast development continue.  Gynecomastia can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity conditions, disease or the use of certain drugs. Most often a large percentage of cases develop from unknown causes.  Gynecomastia can cause emotional distress and impair a man’s self-confidence. Some men avoid certain physical activities and/or intimacy simply to hide their condition.  Gynecomastia in most cases can be treated with liposuction and removal of small amounts of firm tissue from beneath the nipple.  In more extreme cases the procedure may have to be performed in two stages.  The first stage involves liposuction of the chest followed by a healing period to allow for skin shrinkage.  The second stage involves potential removal of any remaining excess skin.

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates ar emen who demonstrate:

• Enlarged or overdeveloped breast (one or both)
• Stabilized breast development has failed treatment of medical reasons for gynecomastia
• Non-smokers or have ceased smoking two months prior to the procedure
• Overall good health

What to expect during your consultation

Dr. Stephenson will evaluate your overall health. More specifically, he will evaluate your skin quality, skin laxity, the amount of fatty tissue and glandular tissue present as well as for the presence of masses in the breast area.  This evaluation will help him to develop your individual plan.  He will also review the risks involved in gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Stephenson encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery.  This will help Dr. Stephenson understand your goals/expectations and whether these expectations can be realistically achieved. 

Gynecomastia Recovery

Swelling and bruising are expected after liposuction.  The bruising and much of the swelling will disappear over several weeks although this will vary between patients. However, it may be months before all swelling subsides and you see the final result of your liposuction procedure. A compression vest will be required to control swelling and to help the overlying tissues adapt to your new chest contour. You should be able to return to very modest duties in two weeks with complete recovery in about six weeks.

BODY CONTOURING SURGERY CREDENTIALS

Credentials matter. Dr. Stephenson has received extensive training in body contouring surgery including correction of gynecomastia.  He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Stephenson will be happy to discuss how chest contouring may be beneficial to you.  To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephenson at Signature Plastic Surgery, call (770) 466-4700.