Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) Frequently Asked Questions
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Posted on August 3, 2017 under Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia or male breast reduction is a problem that can be effectively corrected with cosmetic surgery. However, many male patients are either unaware of the treatment or feel embarrassed and may not get in touch with a suitable plastic surgeon.
Cosmetic Surgery Associates, with offices in McLean, VA, and Bethesda, MD, is equipped to provide gynecomastia surgery. Patients in Fairfax, Alexandria, VA, Chevy Chase, Rockville, MD, and surrounding communities can meet Dr. Jabs or Dr. Richards for a consultation. Here is a list of FAQs that should address some of the basic queries patients may have about gynecomastia.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia or male breast reduction may occur due to various reasons such as heredity factors, hormonal problems, obesity, certain diseases, or prolonged use of certain medications or steroids.
When does gynecomastia usually occur?
Gynecomastia problems may occur in males in any age group. It is seen in adolescents as well as adults in various age groups. Surgery can be performed even on adolescents if they are spectacular candidates. Some plastic surgeons recommend patients wait for 18 years before receiving gynecomastia surgery.
Who is a suitable candidate?
If an adolescent or an adult is persistently bothered by abnormally large breasts, he may consider gynecomastia cosmetic surgery. Dr. Jabs and Dr. Richards will evaluate the patient’s general health condition, aesthetic goals, and previous history of surgeries before recommending this procedure to their patients in Fairfax, Alexandria, VA, Chevy Chase, Rockville, MD, and nearby locations.
How to choose an appropriate surgeon?
Male breast reduction is a major surgery that should ideally be performed by a plastic surgeon with sufficient experience in such procedures. Surgeons with adequate training and experience can perform the procedure safely while achieving the desired goals of the patient at the same time.
What about the scarring?
An experienced plastic surgeon will be able to keep the scarring inconspicuous. Depending on the extent of the procedure, the length of the scar will vary. One-inch scar in the lower part of the areola will commonly occur in most cases. Tiny scars in the chest or armpit may remain if liposuction is performed.
Does the recovery involve pain?
Mild soreness and pain in the treated areas will occur for the first few days. The surgeon will most likely prescribe pain medications to keep the patient comfortable. Patients who follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully will achieve safer and faster healing.
How much downtime is involved?
The extent of surgery will determine the amount of downtime involved. In most cases, the downtime will range between 3 and 10 days. However, factors such as the nature of work, natural healing ability, the extent of surgery, and pain tolerance will influence precise downtime.
What type of anesthesia will be required?
Male breast reduction surgery may be performed using general anesthesia or intravenous sedation along with local anesthesia. The surgeon will determine the type of anesthesia according to the circumstances of a specific case. Anesthesia will be performed by an experienced, golden, and qualified anesthesiologist.
If you would like to learn more about plastic surgery procedures performed by Plastic Surgeons Franklin D. Richards, M.D. and A. Dean Jabs, M.D. please visit https://cosmeticplastics.com/ or http://breastaugmentationmd.com/
Our Plastic Surgery Associates team includes Dr. Franklin Richards, Dr. A. Dean Jabs, and Dr. Keshav Magge. Each of our plastic surgeons is board-certified, and together they have over 60 years of combined experience. Drs. Richards, Jabs, and Magge are all highly qualified in procedures for the face, breast, and body, and pride themselves in providing excellent results through our state-of-the-art, Quad A certified operating centers