Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) in Fort Lauderdale, FL
What Is Male Breast Reduction?
“Man boobs” are one of the most embarrassing cosmetic problems experienced by men, and diet and exercise cannot remedy the problem in many cases. Dr. David J. Levens, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs surgery for gynecomastia, the condition that causes enlarged breasts in men in the Fort Lauderdale and Broward County areas.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical term that originates from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” The condition often results in embarrassment, teasing, and social trauma, especially for teens and younger men, leading many to wear heavy, loose-fitting shirts and avoid sports and bare-chested activities. Gynecomastia is present in an estimated 40 to 60 percent of the male population. It may affect only one breast or both. Certain drugs, such as anabolic steroids, medications containing estrogen, alcohol, and marijuana, may cause or contribute to enlarged male breasts. So might some medical conditions including cancer and impaired liver function. However, it is widely accepted in the medical community that a large percentage of cases occur for unknown reasons.
How to Get Rid of Gynecomastia Without Surgery?
The symptoms of gynecomastia, such as the flabby or “feminine” contours in the chest, are caused by excess fat and glandular tissue. For some patients who experience gynecomastia during puberty, the symptoms will resolve after puberty once hormone levels have stabilized. Similarly, for patients who experience gynecomastia as a result of certain medications, symptoms may resolve after discontinuing those medications. Unfortunately, for patients who struggle with persistent gynecomastia, there are no non-surgical options for treatment. Diet and exercise can help with generalized fat, but cannot be directed to the specific shape of the chest fat. Neither diet nor exercise will help reduce excess glandular tissue. This leaves surgery as the most realistic option for getting rid of gynecomastia.
How Does Gynecomastia Surgery Work?
Gynecomastia surgery removes excess fat and glandular tissue in the chest to produce more masculine contours. To perform male breast reduction surgery, incisions are made in the chest. The location and size of these incisions will vary depending on the patient and their cosmetic goals. Through the incisions, Dr. Levens removes excess breast tissue to sculpt the chest. Liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat and further enhance the results.
What are the Benefits of Male Breast Reduction?
Male breast reduction removes excess breast tissue and fat that gives male breasts an enlarged and feminine appearance. For most men, the surgery offers a welcome relief from living with “man boobs” that make them feel less masculine.
Gynecomastia Before and After Photos
Age: 16
Height: 5′ 5″
Weight: 147 lbs
Months Post-Op: 4
Age: 19
Height: 5′ 1″
Weight: 152 lbs
Months Post-Op: 12
Are You A Candidate For Gynecomastia Surgery?
The best candidates for male breast reduction are:
- Those who have firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body’s new contours
- Healthy men of any age
- Males who are mature enough physically and emotionally to handle it
If you meet these criteria, you might be a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery. However, the best way to determine your candidacy for gynecomastia surgery is to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Levens. During your consultation, you can discuss your cosmetic goals as Dr. Levens helps you identify whether male breast reduction is an appropriate solution. If it is, he’ll develop a personalized treatment plan and explain what you can expect leading up to, during and after your surgery.
How Much is Gynecomastia Surgery?
The cost of gynecomastia surgery at David J. Levens M.D. Plastic Surgery & Med Spa starts at $6,000 for correction without skin excision and up to $7,500 if skin excision is also needed for correction. However, prices may vary due to specials and/or the facility used. An individual treatment plan will be developed during your consultation with Dr. Levens. After the appointment, we will provide you with a total cost and explain your payment options, including cash, personal check, Visa®, MasterCard® and American Express®. If you are interested in financing your male breast reduction surgery, our patient coordinators will explain how to apply for CareCredit®, Alphaeon Credit, or Prosper® Healthcare Lending.
Why Choose Dr. David J. Levens?
Dr. David J. Levens, FACS, is an exceptional plastic, cosmetic, and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Coral Springs since 1989. With a career spanning over three decades, he has established himself as a highly respected and experienced professional in the field. Dr. Levens is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), and he is a member of prestigious organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
When it comes to gynecomastia surgery, Dr. Levens is known for his surgical skill and expertise. He offers a comprehensive range of sophisticated plastic surgery procedures and treatments for the face and body. However, what sets him apart is his patient-centric approach. Dr. Levens takes the time to understand each patient's unique situation and helps them choose the most suitable procedure or treatment to achieve their desired outcome. His expertise, combined with his compassionate and meticulous approach, make him an excellent choice for those looking to undergo gynecomastia surgery. Learn more about Dr. Levens or read his reviews.
Call 954-752-1020 Today
To Schedule Your Consultation!
What Happens During Breast Reduction Surgery?
Depending on the nature and extent of the gynecomastia, enlarged male breasts can be reduced by liposuction and/or by cutting out excess glandular tissue and/or skin. The procedure typically takes about two hours, on an outpatient basis, using general anesthesia. In cases where male breast enlargement is caused only by fatty tissue and does not involve excess glandular tissue and skin, liposuction alone may be sufficient for male breast reduction. Tiny incisions are made near the nipple; fat is suctioned out through a very narrow tube called a cannula. In such cases, scars will be small and barely visible. If the problem is being caused not just by fatty deposits but by excess glandular mass as well, the excess tissue is removed through an incision at the lower edge of the areola. In rare cases of excess skin, incisions are made around and beneath the areola.
What are the Risks of Gynecomastia Surgery?
There are a few important risks to consider before pursuing gynecomastia surgery.
Sensation Risks
Some patients experience temporary numbness or lack of sensation in the breast area that can last up to a year.
Symmetry Risks
Post-operative asymmetry, while rare, is possible. When that occurs, a second procedure may be needed to remove additional tissue and create better balance.
Surgical Risks
In a small percentage of cases, infrequent complications associated with many surgical procedures may occur, which include possible infection, skin damage, fluid accumulation, bleeding, and scarring or pigment changes. Dr. Levens will give you detailed information about these and other rare risks during his discussion with you and in written information about gynecomastia surgery.
How Painful is Gynecomastia Surgery?
There will be some post-operative bruising, swelling, and burning sensation. Most patients require medication for only two to three days, if at all. Most bruising should fade within a week or two. To assist with the healing process, the patient will wear an elastic pressure garment for three to six weeks. Dr. Levens can also prescribe medication if necessary.
How Long is Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery?
There is little downtime after this procedure and patients typically return to work within one week unless the work is extremely strenuous. Most patients make a full recovery within 3 months. The typical schedule of recovery is:
- Bruising and swelling for 10 to 14 days.
- Return to work and social activities within 5 to 7 days.
- Partake in aerobic or strenuous activities within 3 to 6 weeks.
- Avoid exposing scarred areas to the sun for 6 months.
Dr. Levens will encourage you to return to normal activity as soon as you can, but for the first two to four weeks, you should avoid strenuous activity, especially activities that involve the arms and chest.
Post Surgery Frequently Asked Questions
How Long After Gynecomastia
Surgery Can I Workout?
Most patients can resume light exercise within a few weeks of gynecomastia surgery. However, this should be limited to gentle exercises such as cardio activities, which do not significantly involve the arms or chest. Between 4 and 6 weeks after recovery, the chest is usually healed enough to resume weight lifting and other strenuous exercises. However, be sure to get approval from Dr. Levens during a follow-up appointment before resuming these activities.
Are the Results from Gynecomastia
Surgery Permanent?
Yes, the results from male breast reduction surgery are generally considered permanent. During the procedure, excess breast tissue and fat are removed to reduce the size and reshape the chest. Once these tissues are excised, they do not grow back. However, it's important to note that factors such as weight gain can still impact the appearance of the chest over time. Nonetheless, the majority of patients experience a significant and permanent reduction in breast size and improved chest shape that produces a firmer, flatter and more contoured chest.
Dr. Levens has been providing male breast reduction for gynecomastia for men in Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Broward County since 1989. To learn more about gynecomastia surgery or to schedule your complimentary consultation, contact us today.
