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Gynecomastia (excess male breast tissue) is a common, if seldom discussed, condition. Many people suffer it temporarily, during puberty or during a period of weight gain. But for some patients, it is a chronic condition that can only be resolved with surgery. If you’re among those heading in for a procedure, it is important to understand the process you are embarking on. Below we will discuss the key steps on the road to reducing your male breasts.

What is Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

Male breast reduction treatment removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the chest. The result is a flatter, more traditionally masculine chest. The procedure can resolve a variety of breast-related symptoms including:

1. Enlarged male breasts
2. Big areolas (the dark skin surrounding the nipple)
3. Saggy or pointy nipples

The goal of gynecomastia surgery is clear: to create a flatter, sexier, more manly chest. The improved body contouring achieved by these procedures is a tremendous confidence booster for the men who get them.

Preparing for Surgery

Once you and your surgeon have decided on gynecomastia surgery, it is time for preparation. But what are the steps between making the decision and getting your procedure done?

1. Set The Goalposts

It is absolutely critical that patients know their intended results before walking into the operating room for a procedure. When you meet with your cosmetic surgeon, don’t leave anything unsaid. Discuss your goals, discuss his method at length and talk through any concerns you may have. A successful gynecomastia treatment plan must address your specific objectives, whether they are to get rid of excess breast tissue, reshape your nipple and areola, or both. There are a variety of treatment plans you can choose, including HD, Awake, Laser, or Vaser liposuction. Make sure to do your homework, listen to your doctor, and pick the right procedure for you.

2. Pick The Right Cosmetic Surgeon

A skilled cosmetic surgeon is your conduit to a successful male breast reduction procedure through Liposuction. Experience with gynecomastia patients is crucial to the success of your procedure. Surgeons put their before and after photos online. Take a look and make sure that you like the results you are seeing. And once you have settled on a surgeon, be comfortable and confident in that choice. You picked them for a reason.

3. Make Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle choices may not be the primary cause of your gynecomastia. But implementing changes before your procedure can lead to better outcomes from your procedure. Before you head in for your appointment, patients should:

1. Keep a healthy diet. Fruits, veggies and lean meats are your best allies in the war against gynecomastia
2. Reduce consumption of alcohol, processed foods and sugar.
3. Exercise. We all know that regular cardiovascular activity comes with a ton of benefits. But if you’re tired of suffering from gynecomastia, you should make it a priority.
4. Get off hormonal drugs. Supplements, steroids and any other substances that could contribute to gynecomastia should be taken out of your regimen.

These changes will put you in better health, and yield better results from your procedure in the long term.

4. Understand Your Procedure

If you are getting cosmetic surgery, it is imperative that you understand what you are going in to have done. Make sure you understand the specifics of how your male breast reduction procedure works. Talk to your surgeon extensively at your visit. In an awake liposuction, the surgeon reshapes the chest by excising extra fat, glandular tissue and skin. Sutures close the wounds. Sometimes, the nipples are realigned to enhance the look. Knowing your specific pathway will help you generate realistic expectations, and be more satisfied with the result. It also may help you avoid complications or unwanted outcomes. Also, if you are not someone who does well with pain, or suffers from anxiety, make sure you know your doctor’s plan to address those things. Local anesthesia and sedation should be administered to help avoid any discomfort or angst. And knowledge by itself can be enough to reduce anxiety. The road to your chiseled chest and etched abs should not be a rocky, dark one.

Conclusion

It can take weeks, or even a couple of months, to fully appreciate the result of your procedure. Healing takes time, and the swelling needs to come down before you see your full results. If you’re in the Los Angeles area, reach out to Aesthetic and Cosmetic Surgeons LA. Our team of highly experienced cosmetic surgeons has been performing gynecomastia procedures for years. We take the time to understand each patient's concerns and goals, crafting a personalized treatment plan to help achieve their desired outcome. Schedule a consultation with us today. We'll assess your condition, discuss your goals, and guide you through every step of the process.