What Realistic Expectations and Results Can Men Anticipate from Male Breast Reduction?
Male breast reductions continue to become more and more popular, with more than 40 percent of the breast reductions performed in 2015 having been for males. Men may seek a breast reduction for a number of reasons, including post-weight loss body contouring and genetics. But as with any plastic surgery procedure, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations about your results, as well as consult an experienced plastic surgeon who can help you best determine if you may be a good candidate for the procedure.
What Results Can a Male Breast Reduction Procedure Achieve?
Gynecomastia is the medical term that refers to male breast overdevelopment, and can be caused by a variety of factors. When an imbalance of hormones occurs, typically either due to an increase in estrogen levels, a decrease in testosterone levels, or a combination of both, the breast tissue in men can swell, resulting in an often undesired body contour. A male breast reduction is a surgical procedure that can remove excess skin, fat, and tissue to achieve a firmer, more toned, and more masculine shape. (American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Mayo Clinic)
Additionally, some men who have experienced significant weight loss find that excess skin and fat in the chest area is hindering them from achieving their optimum results. Because of this, and because of the fact that this area of the body can sometimes be particularly difficult to reduce through diet and exercise alone, a male breast reduction can be an effective treatment method to add as the final step of your weight loss plan. (Obesity Surgery)
What You Shouldn’t Expect from a Male Breast Reduction Procedure
While male breast reduction procedures can offer many men very noticeable and long-lasting results, it’s crucial to keep realistic expectations in mind when considering this treatment. Many men suffering from gynecomastia often experience low levels of self-esteem and a negative body image, which a male breast reduction can absolutely help to reverse. That said, however, plastic surgery procedures are meant to enhance and improve the natural shape and features of the body, rather than solve underlying psychological concerns.
Equally important to note is that male breast reduction can provide excellent results following weight loss or due to hormonal imbalances, but it shouldn’t be thought of as a weight loss method. Instead, it can help to contour the body, revealing a much more masculine shape. And while the results of a male breast reduction are permanent, as the excess fat and tissue are removed from the body, maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle can help to ensure that your results are long-lasting.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?
Men who are in good physical health and near their ideal weight, yet experience over-developed, exercise-resistant breasts are ideal candidates for a male breast reduction. Depending on your unique needs and situation, an experienced plastic surgeon will be able to design a surgical plan that’s custom-tailored to meet your goals and help you achieve the firmer, more masculine, and toned results you want.
Taking the Next Step
Knowing exactly what you can expect before, during, and after a male breast reduction can help to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. The first step towards achieving the high-quality results that men are looking for is to do your research to find the right plastic surgeon in your area. He or she will be able to guide you through the process, as well as address any concerns or questions you may have about the procedure or the results that it can offer.
Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh is run by a highly skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Brian Heil. Dr. Heil understands that men often have unique cosmetic concerns, and is dedicated to providing individualized results to meet the specific needs of each client. View our before and after photo gallery to see real examples of male breast reduction results that Dr. Heil has achieved. If you would like more information about male breast reduction, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil, please contact us at 724-264-3608, and a member of our personable staff will gladly assist you.
The Bottom Line
More and more men are seeking procedures like male breast reduction to improve the shape and contours of their body, as well as boost their self-confidence. Given the increasingly competitive job market, combined with a greater focus placed on overall health and wellness, procedures like male breast reductions can greatly improve many men’s quality of life and sense of self.
