Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia, a common condition affecting men of all ages, involves the enlargement of male breast tissue, often leading to discomfort and self-consciousness. Dr. Gregory Hurvitz, serving Long Beach, Los Alamitos, and the South Bay, offers effective solutions through gynecomastia surgery, helping patients achieve a more masculine and contoured chest.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a condition found exclusively in males, characterized by the development of excess fatty and glandular tissue in the chest area. The term “gynecomastia” combines “gyne,” meaning female, and “mastia,” meaning breast, to describe this enlargement of breast tissue in men. Typically, this condition arises from an imbalance of hormones or as a result of hormone therapy.

To address this, male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery or simply gyne surgery, is performed. This cosmetic surgical procedure aims to correct the appearance of enlarged breasts in men.

Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery offers several key benefits, including:

• Improved Chest Contour: The procedure helps to create a more masculine and contoured chest by removing excess glandular tissue, fat, or skin.
• Enhanced Clothing Fit: Many men find that their clothing fits better after surgery as the chest area becomes more proportionate.
• Increased Physical Comfort: By eliminating excess tissue, the surgery can alleviate physical discomfort caused by gynecomastia, particularly during activities like exercise.
• Greater Participation in Physical Activities: Gynecomastia surgery enables men to participate more comfortably in physical activities, as the removal of excess tissue eliminates self-consciousness or discomfort.

The Consultation Process

When considering gynecomastia surgery, a consultation with Dr. Hurvitz is an essential first step. During the consultation, Dr. Hurvitz conducts a thorough evaluation and provides a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs. This process ensures that patients are well-informed and prepared for their procedure.

The Procedure

Anesthesia Type: Local or general, depending on the severity of the case and whether or not other procedures are being combined with the gynecomastia surgery.

Facility Type: In-office surgical suite for local anesthesia, outpatient surgery center for general anesthesia
Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery

Recovery Time: 3–4 days to begin driving and return to work (work not requiring heavy lifting), one month to resume all activities.

What to Expect During Recovery: Swelling, bruising, discomfort, soreness, asymmetric healing, must wear a compression vest for a few weeks to help with healing.

Deciding to Have Gynecomastia Surgery

Considering surgery of any kind is something that should never be taken lightly. The best place to start is to become educated about the entire surgical process. The more informed you are, the better capable you are of making the best possible decision. We encourage you to read the information we have provided on this page about gynecomastia surgery, followed by contacting our office to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Hurvitz at his office.

During your consultation, clearly communicate your goals for male breast reduction surgery to ensure Dr. Hurvitz can align them with realistic outcomes. He will assess your medical history and perform a chest examination to evaluate your suitability for gynecomastia surgery. If you’re a candidate, Dr. Hurvitz will explain the necessary procedures to achieve the best results. He will also inform you about the potential risks and the recovery process. A member of his professional staff will then provide a detailed surgery quote and address any further inquiries.

Gynecomastia: Causes and Effects

Gynecomastia can cause significant emotional distress, leading men to avoid activities and social situations. It can occur during puberty (often temporary) or adulthood due to various factors.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia:

• Excess localized fat or glandular tissue development
• Sometimes excess breast skin
• Presence in one or both breasts
• Breast tenderness or pain

Procedure Options for Male Breast Reduction

There are several treatment options available for gynecomastia, each targeting different aspects of the condition:

• Liposuction of Fatty Tissue: This procedure is ideal for reducing excess fat in the chest. It involves small incisions and minimal scarring.
• Excision of Glandular Tissue: When excess glandular tissue is the primary issue, surgical excision is necessary to remove it and achieve a more contoured appearance.
• Skin Excision: In cases where significant skin excess is present, excising the redundant skin may be required to tighten and smooth the chest area.
• Breast Lift: Sometimes, a breast lift is performed to elevate and reshape the chest, particularly if sagging skin or breast tissue is present.
• Nipple/Areola Repositioning: For patients with significant changes in the nipple or areola position, repositioning can restore a more natural look.

To achieve a more comprehensive body contour, some patients choose to combine male breast reduction surgery with liposuction of the abdomen and/or flanks, or even a tummy tuck.

FAQs about Gynecomastia Surgery

Is Gynecomastia Surgery Painful?

While some discomfort is expected post-surgery, the level of pain is typically mild to moderate. Pain management options are provided to ensure patient comfort during recovery.

How Long is the Recovery Time After Surgery?

Recovery time varies but generally takes around one to two weeks for initial healing. Full recovery, including resumption of all normal activities, may take up to six weeks.

Will Insurance Cover Gynecomastia Surgery?

Insurance coverage for gynecomastia surgery varies by provider and individual policy. In some cases, the procedure may be covered if it is deemed medically necessary.

What are the Different Types of Anesthesia Used for Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the complexity of the procedure and patient preference.

Are There Any Long-Term Risks or Complications Associated with Gynecomastia Surgery?

While gynecomastia surgery is generally safe, potential risks include infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. A thorough consultation with Dr. Hurvitz helps mitigate these risks.

Schedule a Consultation

Take the next step toward achieving a more contoured chest by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Hurvitz. With personalized care and tailored treatment options, Dr. Hurvitz is ready to address your gynecomastia concerns and help you make an informed decision about the best solution for you.

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