Gynecomastia Surgery
IN PHILADELPHIA
Many men suffer from gynecomastia, which is enlarged male breasts or “man boobs.” Gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction surgery, permanently removes extra breast tissue and reshapes the chest to a more normal, masculine look.
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One of the most common and embarrassing cosmetic issues for men is gynecomastia. This condition causes many men to feel self-conscious about the appearance of their bodies, especially at the beach or pool or during intimate times with their partner.
Gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction) removes breast tissue, including the “glands” and fat. After the procedure, men can feel more confident with the look of their chest.
Dr. Lo’s objective is to meet your goals by performing your gynecomastia surgery safely and to give you the normal chest you desire. Dr. Lo’s patients usually return to normal activities in as little as two days and gym workouts within two weeks.
Dr. Lo is a gynecomastia specialist and performs the most gynecomastia procedures in the Delaware valley area. Dr. Lo performs gynecomastia surgery for men in Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
Am I a Candidate for
Gynecomastia Surgery?
You may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery if any of the scenarios below apply to you:
- You have excess fat and/or breast tissue in your chest area.
- You have a hard lump underneath your nipple. This is the breast gland.
- You have a puffy nipple or areola.
- You have tenderness or pain from the extra breast tissue.
- Your “man boobs” have not improved from diet, exercise, or stopping medications that cause gynecomastia.
- You are self-conscious or bothered by the appearance of your chest and wish to improve its look.
What Is Discussed During My
Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation?
The objectives for your gynecomastia plastic surgery procedure will be discussed with Dr. Lo during your consultation. During this meeting, Dr. Lo and his team will:
- Determine the cause of your “man boobs,” whether it is a hormonal imbalance (testosterone and estrogen) during puberty, steroid use, marijuana, or medications.
- Examine your chest to determine the type of gynecomastia you have.
- Create a customized surgical plan to treat your gynecomastia.
- Show you gynecomastia surgery before and after photos of Dr. Lo’s previous patients.
- Answer any questions about the procedure, recovery, or results.
- Review your medical history and general health.
- Inform you on how to prepare for your surgery.
What Are the Surgical Techniques Used for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Most men with gynecomastia will require a combination of advanced liposuction with surgical excision of tissue or gland removal to achieve a normal flat looking chest.
Advanced Liposuction
Liposuction is one of the most trusted and versatile cosmetic procedures available. Dr. Lo performs state-of-the-art tumescent liposuction during gynecomastia surgery.
Dr. Lo will first make a small incision hidden in your armpit. Using a thin tube called a cannula, a tumescent solution will infiltrate your chest area to loosen up the stubborn fat. Then the fat is suctioned out of the chest using a larger liposuction cannula to create a more sculpted and contoured chest.
Surgical Removal of the glands
Gynecomastia often consists of excess breast tissue, known as gland tissue (the glands) which feels very hard and firm to the touch. Dr. Lo will surgically remove subcutaneous gland tissue to help you achieve your desired chest appearance.
For this procedure, Dr. Lo will make an incision at the bottom edge of the nipple/areola, and the “gland” will be surgically removed. The technical name for this procedure is subcutaneous mastectomy. Most men with gynecomastia will require surgical removal of the breast gland to achieve a normal-looking chest.
Male Breast Reduction
Men with severe cases of gynecomastia may have loose excess skin that requires skin removal with breast tissue removal. The nipple-areola complex is often in an abnormal position and will need to be repositioned to give a more natural-looking chest.
Above image: Surgical incisions used for liposuction and gland removal
Dr. Lo’s Fast Facts*
Dr. Lo will customize your gynecomastia surgery to better help you achieve the normal masculine chest you are looking for. Depending on your needs, your treatment will include advanced liposuction to remove subcutaneous fat, surgical excision of glandular tissue, skin removal, or a combination of all three.
Procedure: Outpatient. Home the same day.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia
Length of Procedure: 1 hour
Level of Post-Op Pain: Special protocol to keep pain to a minimum
Activity: Driving in 2 days
Recovery Period: Compression vest to be worn for 1 month
Back to the Gym: 2 weeks to start chest exercises
Incision: Scars are almost “invisible”
Pricing: $8,800 -$12,300
What Do I Need to Know About Gynecomastia Surgery?
What Should I Expect on the Day of My Gynecomastia Surgery?
Your gynecomastia procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery at the Pennsylvania Hospital Tuttleman Surgery Center or Pennsylvania Hospital. You will arrive approximately one hour before your surgery to be checked in by our nursing team and evaluated by our anesthesia team. Dr. Lo will then meet with you to discuss any last-minute questions and review the procedure. Using a marker, he will draw the incision lines on your chest skin.
Gynecomastia surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure you do not feel discomfort during your procedure. Patient safety is the most important concern for Dr. Lo and his team, and you will be continuously monitored during your surgery.
Most gynecomastia surgery procedures take one hour to complete, though more extensive cases may take up to two hours. After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room until you are ready to go home.
What Is My Recovery Like After Gynecomastia Surgery?
For most men, gynecomastia recovery time is about one week, though most can return to work after two or three days (depending on the type of work they do). Swelling, bruising, and soreness are minimal after this procedure. Most men have minimal pain after surgery and do not require any pain medication. Occasionally, over-the-counter medications are taken.
During recovery, you will wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and shape the chest. This garment should be worn as often as possible during the first four weeks or as instructed by Dr. Lo.
After your gynecomastia procedure, you can resume normal activities quickly. Most men can drive in two to three days, and many are back to work within the week if their job does not require heavy lifting.
Refraining from strenuous activity, including exercise and heavy lifting, is essential for two weeks. After two weeks, most men are cleared to return to the gym. Dr. Lo will recommend that chest exercises be started to shape your chest and tighten your skin. You will have regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Lo for up to six months after surgery.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Painful?
After gynecomastia surgery, most men experience no pain besides a slight discomfort similar to a heavy chest workout. If necessary, over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen (TYLENOL®), can be taken.
Will Gynecomastia Surgery Leave Scars?
With Dr. Lo’s standard liposuction and gland removal procedure, the scars are very small and hidden in your armpit and around your nipple/areolar complex. These cuts or scars heal very well and are almost invisible.
When Will I See My Gynecomastia Surgery Results?
You will be able to see results immediately after your gynecomastia procedure and get a preview of your new look. In one month, you will see 80% of your final result; however, it can take three to six months for the last 20% of swelling to subside completely.
What are the risks associated with male breast reduction?
While gynecomastia is a safe outpatient procedure, there are minimal risks and complications associated with the surgery. These include:
- Bruising
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Loss of nipple sensation, which can be temporary or permanent
- Scarring
- Numbness
- Asymmetry
Dr. Lo will discuss the possible risks, the likelihood of the risks, and the ways to minimize and correct any complications.
What Are Frequently Asked Questions About Gynecomastia Surgery?
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At what age can I have gynecomastia surgery?
Male breast reduction can be performed on males as early as their teens; however, because gynecomastia is often caused by a hormonal imbalance which often occurs in pubescent males, it is recommended that patients wait until they have finished puberty to consider gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Lo will determine if you are ready to have gynecomastia surgery or if you should wait before having surgery.
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Can I combine my gynecomastia surgery with other procedures?
Gynecomastia surgery is often performed as a single procedure and can help men feel more comfortable and attain a more normal and masculine chest appearance. Some men choose to combine gynecomastia surgery with other surgical procedures, including:
- Liposuction surgery
- Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty)
- Facial cosmetic surgery, such as eyelid surgery
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How Much Does Gynecomastia Surgery Cost in Philadelphia?
As with any plastic surgery or cosmetic procedure, the cost of male breast reduction varies by patient. That is because your gynecomastia surgery cost depends on the extent of correction needed, which technique is used (liposuction, excision, skin removal, or a combination), and whether you are combining your surgery with any other procedures.
At your consultation, Dr. Lo will provide you with a cost estimate that includes the surgical fee, anesthesia fee, facility fee, and other fees (including all post-surgical appointments). Financing options are available to help you achieve your body contouring goals.
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Why Should I Choose Dr. Adrian Lo?
Before choosing your plastic surgeon for gynecomastia surgery, you must research their experience, knowledge, and ability. You should consider the following:
- Is your surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)?
- How often does your surgeon perform gynecomastia surgery?
- Does your plastic surgeon listen to and understand your goals and objectives?
- Do the surgeon’s before and after photos show the results you want for yourself?
- Do you feel comfortable with your plastic surgeon?
Dr. Lo is a gynecomastia specialist and is committed to helping men achieve a normal looking masculine chest. Dr. Adrian Lo is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding suburbs.
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Contact UsLocations
Philadelphia Cosmetic Surgery
301 South 8th Street, Suite 3H,
Philadelphia PA 19106
New Jersey Cosmetic Surgery
990 Route 73 North
Marlton, NJ 08053
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