Â
Male Gynecomastia Chicago
At The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, gynecomastia is a frequently performed procedure for men. Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men. It can occur at any age, as a result of genetics, obesity, hormonal changes, or the use of certain drugs. Gynecomastia can severely impact self-esteem and confidence, and may even impose limitations on physical activity.
Gynecomastia surgery is a corrective procedure to reduce the size of male breasts, flattening the chest and enhancing the contours to a more aesthetically acceptable shape. The surgical procedure to correct gynecomastia is also known as a reduction mammoplasty.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY?
At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we want to help every patient look and feel like the best versions of themselves. If you are a man that suffers from gynecomastia and you believe you may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery, contact us to schedule a consultation.
Ideal candidates are in generally good physical health and non-smokers. Gynecomastia surgery is usually only performed on men whose breast development has stabilized, and who do not have any medical conditions that may affect the healing process.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION
When you schedule a consultation with the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, you will meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery of the body and breasts. You and your plastic surgeon will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and determine the best course of treatment for you. If you have any questions about the procedure, its associated risks, or costs, your surgeon will be happy to answer them.
HOW GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY IS PERFORMED
First, a general anesthetic is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. Then incisions are made, around the nipple and areola or at the lower border of the chest. If the gynecomastia is the result of fatty tissue, liposuction techniques can be used to remove the excess fat. Glandular breast tissue may also be removed to correct the issue and excess skin is reduced if necessary.
The areola and nipple can be repositioned and resized if the excess fatty tissue has caused sagging in the chest. In the case of large reductions, nipple grafting may be necessary, which is the process of removing the nipple and grafting it after the gynecomastia reduction is done. The incisions are closed with sutures, and a temporary drain may be placed to remove any excess fluid.
RECOVERY AFTER GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY
Swelling and bruising of the treated area and incision sites are normal in the weeks following the procedure. An elastic bandage may be necessary to maintain support while the chest heals.
Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication and provide post-surgical care instructions to ensure a safe recovery. You should avoid any rigorous exercise or exertion until your doctor clears you to return to your normal level of activity.
The results of gynecomastia surgery are usually permanent, though patients should be aware that major fluctuations in weight or a return to substances that caused the issue (such as certain drugs or steroids) may affect the longevity of the results
POTENTIAL RISKS OF GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY
Though the risks associated with gynecomastia surgery are infrequent, any surgical procedure comes with potential complications. The risks associated with reduction mammoplasty may include:
- Infection
- Hematoma (blood clot)
- Changes in skin or nipple sensation
- Unfavorable scarring
- Asymmetry
The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago takes every measure to minimize risk by using only the safest, most innovative techniques in aesthetic surgery. You can also reduce potential complications by carefully following all instructions from your plastic surgeon, both before and after the procedure.
WHAT DOES GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY COST IN CHICAGO?
The average cost of gynecomastia surgery in the United States is around $3,600, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. As an experienced Chicago gynecomastia surgeon, Dr. Patel will want to meet with you in his office to discuss all options and costs. The cost will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to your geographic location, the plastic surgeon performing the procedure, and the extent of the necessary corrections.
Most health insurance providers will not cover the expense of gynecomastia surgery, since it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Be sure to speak with your plastic surgeon about all associated costs and payment options during your consultation.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you are a man who suffers from gynecomastia and you believe that you are a candidate for corrective surgery, contact us at the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago to schedule a consultation. A board-certified plastic surgeon will talk with you about your aesthetic goals and discuss all treatment options available. We are as committed to patient education as we are to excellent patient care, and will be happy to answer any and all questions you may have about gynecomastia surgery.
All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.