Gynecomastia or enlarged male breasts is a condition, which can lead to lack of self-esteem and confidence in men who are affected. Approximately 40-60% of men today live with Gynecomastia. Many men settle for the fact that they will have to wear loose fitting shirts to cover up their “female-like” chest.  Others may work at gaining control of their diet and committing to an exercise program. Although this option is a wise choice, it does not decrease the severity for most males; they are left with a continuing desire for a masculine appearance.

There are several causes of Gynecomastia and possible combinations that can lead to this condition such as:

*Puberty
*Steroid abuse
*Obesity
*Breast Tumors
*Genetic disorders
*Chronic liver disease
*Aging
*Side effects of certain medications

Medications known to cause Gynecomastia include some anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen, mood altering drugs such as Effexor, and acid reducers such as Tagamet, Zantac, and Pepcid. Steroids, commonly used by many athletes, are also known to cause Gynecomastia. Occasionally, it can occur with no identifiable cause.

Treatment – Gynecomastia in Pittsburgh

Surgery is the only effective treatment for men affected with Gynecomastia. Enlarged male breasts can be reduced by liposuction and/or by cutting out excess glandular tissue. The procedure for male breast reduction can last from one to three hours depending on the extent of the correction.

Liposuction

If your gynecomastia is primarily caused by fatty tissue, your Pittsburgh plastic surgeon may recommend a liposuction procedure. Liposuction surgery can actually remove unwanted localized deposits of fat cells from the body. A straw-like cannula is inserted through a tiny incision to remove excess fat cells. The result is a resculpting of bulging breasts into more attractive contours.

Traditional Surgical Excision

If your gynecomastia is the result of a glandular disorder, a Pittsburgh liposuction alone is not likely to be adequate. Traditional surgical excision may be a better option. The excision may be performed alone or in conjunction with liposuction. Typically, the incision is placed on the edge of the areola (colored area of the nipple) or in the underarm area. Your surgeon will work through these incisions to cut away the excess glandular tissue, fat and skin from the breast.

Following your Pittsburgh male breast reduction surgery, you can enjoy a more pleasing shape and enhanced self-confidence.

Finding the right surgeon

The surgical procedure requires skill and experience by the plastic surgeon. Gathering the right information with our Pittsburgh plastic surgeon, Brian Vassar Heil, MD, FACS will help you determine the success of this treatment and help you meet your personal expectations.

Whatever the reason behind you having grown breasts, it is important for you to know there are solutions that can help you!  Seek a proper diagnosis and investigate your treatment options. We do not want this condition to affect other areas of your life.  I urge you to explore our websites and pursue the information with our Board Certified Pittsburgh Plastic Surgeon, Brian Vassar Heil, MD.  We want you to take your shirt off in public and show off the confidence that we all deserve.

If your goals are to have some fat removed around your belly, than ultrasonic liposuction or laser liposuctions is the best option for you.  However, if stretch marks, loose skin, or the so-called “little pouch” is your concern, then a better option would be a tummy tuck.  Pittsburgh residents should know that liposuction removes fat but the tummy tuck removes skin, tightens muscles, and shapes the belly.  Doctor Heil will work from the belly button down to the groin hairline.

Doctor Heil performs Tummy tuck surgery in his AAAASF surgery center.  He begins with an incision made from hipbone to hipbone, creating a skin flap. Next, the skin is separated from the abdominal muscles, which are then tightened, providing a firmer abdomen and a narrower waistline. Once the muscles are stitched into place, the skin flap is folded down and the extra skin is removed. Lastly, the incision is stitched closed and a dressing is applied. Your procedure will take between two to five hours, depending on how much work is needed and if multiple procedures will be done at the same time.

The tummy tuck procedure will result in a scar, but it is located below the bikini line so it is as inconspicuous as possible. The results of Dr. Heil’s tummy tuck, Pittsburgh patients found, are long lasting if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly, so you can keep your toned abs for years to come!

The costs of a full tummy tuck surgery include the surgical fee, facility fee (O.R. & Recovery) and anesthesiology fee.  Although Doctor Heil, and most other fully trained board certified plastic surgeons, do not quote prices before a proper consultation, I can provide you with a general idea of the costs.  The surgical fee ranges from $5,500 to 7,000 and the total package cost ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 in this region.  Doctor Heil’s surgical fee is usually $6,000 depending on the case details and total package cost runs about $8,200.

What are the risks and side effects of either of the procedures?  Just like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with tummy tuck and/or liposuction. These generally include swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, and undergoing anesthesia. Tummy tuck and liposuction are a very safe procedure and, when performed by properly trained individuals, it is an excellent way to look the way you desire. A personal consultation with Doctor Heil about tummy tuck and liposuction at his Upper St. Clair, Cranberry or Butler offices in Pittsburgh is the best way to get the information that is exactly right for you.

Remember that you get what you pay for, even in cosmetic surgery.  There are many so-called “cosmetic surgeons”  who (1) have not been trained in general and plastic surgery by ACGME accredited plastic surgery residencies, (2) are not Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (the only Board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties), (3) are not credentialed to do plastic surgery in hospitals because of their lack of proper credentials and training, (4) operate in their offices or so-called “surgicenters”, and (5) further risk their patients safety by using nurse anesthetists without anesthesiologists.  It’s scary and yet true.

When it comes to your body, please insist on the highest safety and training qualifications insured by the board certification that I listed (regardless of whether it is Doctor Heil or another surgeon with whom you ultimately pursue your care).  The three most import aspects of my patient care are: (1) uncompromised patient safety, (2) individualized and customized treatment plans specific to both the patients needs and desires, and (3) always treating each patient in as caring and understanding a manner as I would my own family member.

We hope this information has been helpful in answering your questions. If you do have further questions about tummy tuck or liposuction, contact the Premier Plastic Surgery today at 724-776-2111.

To learn more info on the tummy tuck, Pittsburgh residents can look to two of my colleagues, Doctors Richards & Jabs, who have a very informative blog. See link:  http://cosmeticplasticsblog.com/.

If your goals are to have some fat removed around your belly, than ultrasonic liposuction or laser liposuctions is the best option for you.  However, if stretch marks, loose skin, or the so called “little pouch” is your concern, then tummy tuck would be a better option.  Just know that liposuction removes fat but the tummy tuck removes skin, tightens muscles, and shapes the belly.  Doctor Heil will work from the belly button down to the groin hairline.

Doctor Heil performs Tummy tuck surgery in his AAAASF surgery center.  He begins with an incision made from hipbone to hipbone, creating a skin flap. Next, the skin is separated from the abdominal muscles, which are then tightened, providing a firmer abdomen and a narrower waistline. Once the muscles are stitched into place, the skin flap is folded down and the extra skin is removed. Lastly, the incision is stitched closed and a dressing is applied. Your procedure will take between two to five hours, depending on how much work is needed and if multiple procedures will be done at the same time.

The Pittsburgh tummy tuck procedure will result in a scar, but it is located below the bikini line so it is as inconspicuous as possible. The results of a tummy tuck from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania  plastic surgeon Dr. Heil are long lasting if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly, so you can keep your toned abs for years to come!

The costs of a full tummy tuck surgery include the surgical fee, facility fee (O.R. & Recovery) and anesthesiology fee.  Although Doctor Heil, and most other fully trained board certified plastic surgeons, do not quote prices before a proper consultation, I can provide you with a general idea of the costs.  The surgical fee ranges from $5,500 to 7,000 and the total package cost ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 in this region.  Doctor Heil’s surgical fee is usually $6,000 depending on the case details and total package cost runs about $8,200.

What are the risks and side effects of either of the procedures?  Just like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with tummy tuck and/or liposuction. These generally include swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, and undergoing anesthesia. Tummy tuck and liposuction are a very safe procedure and, when performed by properly trained individuals, it is an excellent way to look the way you desire. A personal consultation with Doctor Heil about tummy tuck and liposuction at his Upper St. Clair, Cranberry or Butler offices in Pittsburgh is the best way to get the information that is exactly right for you.

Remember that you get what you pay for, even in cosmetic surgery.  There are many so-called “cosmetic surgeons”  who (1) have not been trained in general and plastic surgery by ACGME accredited plastic surgery residencies, (2) are not Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (the only Board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties), (3) are not credentialed to do plastic surgery in hospitals because of their lack of proper credentials and training, (4) operate in their offices or so-called “surgicenters”, and (5) further risk their patients safety by using nurse anesthetists without anesthesiologists.  It’s scary and yet true.

When it comes to your body, please insist on the highest safety and training qualifications insured by the board certification that I listed (regardless of whether it is Doctor Heil or another surgeon with whom you ultimately pursue your care).  The three most import aspects of my patient care are: (1) uncompromised patient safety, (2) individualized and customized treatment plans specific to both the patients needs and desires, and (3) always treating each patient in as caring and understanding a manner as I would my own family member.

We hope this information has been helpful in answering your questions. If you do have further questions about tummy tuck or liposuction, contact the Premier Plastic Surgery today at 724-776-2111.

To learn more, two of my colleagues, Doctors Richards & Jabs has a very informative blog on tummy tuck see link  http://cosmeticplasticsblog.com/.

New Jersey plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Parker is one of the surgeons who are leading the way.  His site offers before and after pictures, blogs and articles, videos and more.  The content on his site informs future patients about his clinic’s techniques and staff.  It even helps educate patients on the emotional aspects of plastic surgery, and the effect it will have on your life.

Like his clinic, which specializes in New Jersey breast augmentation, we want to offer our future patients as much information as possible.  Plastic surgery is a big step toward molding a new you, and you should know exactly what to expect.  You have lots of questions, and we want them to be answered before you set foot in the clinic.  For example:

• What can I expect from my plastic surgery?  What can be done?
• What risks and complications are there, and how long is the recovery time?
• What facilities does the clinic use, and what will the surgeon do during the operation?
• What are my choices for sizes, placement techniques, incisions and types of implants?
• Is this procedure right for me?  Am I an ideal candidate?
• What will I look like when the operation is finished?

Once you’re fully informed about your options, it’s time to make the call.  The next step is a consultation; let’s discuss what we can do to make the New You!

Parker Center for Plastic Surgery, New Jersey
122 East Ridgewood Avenue
Paramus, NJ 07652

While considering breast augmentation, Pittsburgh residents now have a center where they can obtain the natural results they desire. The reasons for undergoing this treatment are manifold. You may feel your breasts are too small; your breasts might have lost their usual shape after pregnancy; or perhaps, they could be misshapen, and you’d like them to be symmetrical.

Pittsburgh patients are offered an option of either silicone implants or saline implants. Silicone implants which were at one point considered to be unsafe are now approved by the FDA and are considered to be as safe as the saline ones. Prior to the surgery, our surgeons discuss the types of implants, and the points where they have to make the incision on your body, so you can feel secure about the procedure at every point.

Every patient is different; therefore the process of breast augmentation, Pittsburgh board-certified surgeons say, is also different for every patient. The height, weight, the size and shape of the chest, the ribcage, the tightness and elasticity of the patient’s skin, and the amount of breast tissue contained, have to be looked into. Also, every patient has different expectations from us. Some women would like a smaller breast augmentation. Pittsburgh patients might just like a modest B cup, instead of a D for example.

Our doctors will set up a discussion with you, on what kind of implant is suitable for you, where exactly the incision is to be made, whether it should be under the chest muscle or over it. You can be rest assured that the most appropriate treatment will be given, with individual attention, all thanks to the expertise of our specialists. Now you can enhance not just your breasts, but also your confidence!

Aesthetic plastic surgery involves the “enhancement” of the patient’s appearance through surgical and medical techniques, and is specifically concerned with maintaining normal appearance, restoring it, or enhancing it beyond the average level toward some aesthetic ideal.

Some common cosmetic surgery procedures are breast enhancement, reduction and lift, face lift, forehead lift, upper and lower eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty), laser skin resurfacing (Laser resurfacing), chemical peel, nose reshaping (Rhinoplasty), and reconstruction liposuction, as well as tummy tuck.

When it comes to Plastic Surgery, Pittsburgh surgeons offer exceptional patient care, artistry and surgical expertise to help you achieve naturally beautiful results. Through their customized approach and strict attention to detail, they strive to provide you with guidance, security, and support in choosing the surgical or medical spa options best suited for you.

Brand recognition has also made its way into the Plastic Surgery industry, especially in the area of Liposuction.  Pittsburgh patients may wonder how the “branding” of liposuction technology really deliver improved safety and effectiveness?  It is true of any medical procedure that the better the technology is, the safer and more efficient the procedure becomes for both patient and surgeon.  Of course the surgeon’s skills are another factor in safety and effectiveness, and you would always want to choose a fully-experienced plastic surgeon that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Liposuction Names You’ve Heard

• VASER® LipoSelection® uses an ultrasound probe to break up fat cells for easier fat removal.
• Prolipo Plus ™ is a minimally invasive, ultra-high powered laser system that melts unwanted fat and coagulates tissue, for a smoother, tighter, and more attractive body contour.  Benefits include minimal downtime, bruising and discomfort, as well as a fast treatment time.
• Cynosure Smartlipo™ uses laser energy to break up fat cells. It has the added benefit of reducing bleeding and bruising for faster recovery and can aid in the tightening of skin after liposuction, for a smoother look.
• Palomar SlimLipo™ also uses laser energy and suggests benefits similar to those of the Smartlipo procedure.
• CoolTouch® CoolLipo™ is also a method of laser-assisted liposuction.
• Zeltiq ™ uses the method called Cryolipolysis ™ to cool and remove excess fat.  The technology targets only fat cells, so skin and other tissue remains completely unharmed.  This procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical.
• ZERONA ™ uses low level laser energy.  Fat cells are liquefied and your body gradually absorbs and removes the treated fat through its natural cleansing process.

Brian Vassar Heil, MD FACS has carefully selected the PRO-LIPO™ laser lipolysis system for his AAAASF Surgery Center.  The ProLipo™ Nd:YAD laser has both 1064 nm and 1319 nm Nd:YAG source filters. This combination of wavelengths is desirable for blending different types of lipolysis. For example, the 1064 nm wavelength improves skin tone, acts on collagen fibers, concentrates on blood vessels and fat cells, and heats the skin more slowly. The 1319 nm wavelength targets water in the dermal collagen and melts the fat by bursting the cells, making fat extraction easier and also promoting skin tightening, while heating the skin more quickly. Used together, these wavelengths can both increase successful outcomes and patient throughput.

Doctor Heil has found ProLipo™  truly lives up to its claims of limited recovery time and exceptional results.  However, no matter the hyped brand names, there are the tried and true technologies that he will continue to use in his practice. Among those include Ultrasonic Liposuction and Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL), procedures providing optimal safety and effectiveness.

In short, the explosion in medical aesthetic technology and the use of “branding” has resulted in literally a flooding of new products, procedures and devices, all claiming to be the latest and greatest.  Doctor Heil takes pride in his dedication and caution in sorting out the so called, “hype” to provide his patient’s with safe and effective liposuction. Pittsburgh residents are lucky his methods of treatment are based on quality and his own experience-based conclusions, NOT marketing and advertising hype. In doing this, he can provide a positive, powerful and lasting impact on his patient’s life.  Better names do not necessarily mean better results.  This at least is true in the aesthetic world.

To learn about the basics of liposuction, Pittsburgh residents should visit our colleague’s blog at http://www.drroseblog.com/2010/03/liposuction-the-basics/

You have a choice between a full tummy tuck and a mini abdominoplasty. In a full tummy tuck, an incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area whereas in a mini or partial tummy tuck, the incision is much smaller. A full tummy tuck may take around one to five hours depending on the amount of fat that needs to be removed and a mini tummy tuck may take somewhere around one to two hours.

Pittsburgh surgeons offer a mini abdominoplasty, which is able to achieve an even flatter stomach. Female patients who are unsure if they might get pregnant in the future or plan on getting pregnant at some time must see their qualified surgeons to discuss the possibility of an abdominoplasty. Pittsburgh cosmetic surgeons may use either of the procedure depending on the patient’s skin elasticity and muscle tone.

It takes a few months before the final result can be seen in the wake of an abdominoplasty. Pittsburgh surgeons take special care to ensure that their patients are able to enjoy their new shape. The scars from the surgical procedure fade with time, but they never fully go away. The severity and visibility of the scars depend on the type of the method that is performed.

Your dream of having a sleek and flat abdomen can come true with the help of a tummy tuck. As far as the cost factor is concerned, it would vary depending on the type of tummy tuck you need to undergo, your age factor, your weight and of course your state of health.

Have you ever noticed Americans love big.  We think that bigger is always better.  Big cars, big houses, supersize portions of food.  However, is bigger always better when it comes to breast implants?

I answered this question just recently from a patient that came in to see Brian Vassar Heil, MD FACS for a breast augmentation consult.  She was AA all her life.  She remembers in college always wearing padded bras and being very self conscious about her body image.  Now at 32 years old, she is successful in the business world, but still feels when she looks in the mirror there is a young girl looking back at her.

She is now going to undergo a Pittsburgh breast augmentation with Doctor Heil.  Now the exciting part – What size should I go?  Well, she felt the cost is the same regardless if she decided to get 500 cc silicone implants instead of 350cc silicone implants.  Bigger is always better, right?  This was going to be her first and last time to get the body she always dreamed.

Well, this is what I told her –

Breast implants come in many varieties, including:
Implant surface: smooth or textured
Implant shape: round or shaped
Implant filler:  silicone or saline
Implant profile:  how far the implant protrudes

The correct size of an implant is determined not by the size, A, B, C, D etc.  Instead, implants are measured in cc’s.  The cc’s tells you the number of grams the implant weighs.  The heavier the implant the more it will weight and overtime you may droop.  The weight of the implant may also cause back pain and neck pain if you are a small framed women.  This is why so many women get lifts and reductions.  Do not consider the size implants by comparison of your friends or celebrities; you don’t know where they started.  Their body shape, chest size, and breast size are not exactly yours.  Computer simulation is not good either.  Pictures are good to bring into your consult because it is helpful to get an understanding of your thoughts about size and proportion, but pictures are a poor way to decide on implant size.

The whole point of a breast augmentation is the final result.  So think about PROPORTION, using your OWN body to demonstrate.  You don’t necessary want them to look unnatural, round or fake.  If you think you want large, try wearing them for a while, try exercising, or buttoning up your favorite white blouse.  This is just advice from one girlfriend to another.  We do see many oversized implants coming into our Cranberry and Upper St. Clair office.  The have droopiness, back pain, and they want to DOWNSIZE.  So take a long-term view not just for the here and now.  Besides, in Pittsburgh, we don’t see many FAKE breasted women.  If you wish to look a little fuller on those “special nights”  just wear a great push up bra.  Go for pretty and natural.  GO for Medium size.  Isn’t more fun to keep people guessing?  How does she look so good????????  Now that turns heads!

Doctor Heil will discuss all your options during the consultation.  I will be adding more information on breast augmentation in Pittsburgh on this blog, but if you want more discussion, please see one of Doctor Heil’s collegues blogs.  He is from New Jersey and his blog is rather detailed.  Visit him at http://www.drbrianglatt.com/blog/breast-surgery/part-1-of-series-frequently-asked-questions-about-breast-augmentation-surgery/.