Introduction

Male Breast Reduction

When you close your eyes and you picture “A Man”, we’d bet dollars to donuts that you picture a big, burly guy chopping trees in the woods and hunting his dinner. While we’re not here to make ANYONE feel bad about their appearance, the harsh truth is that most people think Chris Hemsworth before they think Chris Farley. While some men are completely satisfied with their appearance, many men feel a little less “manly” when they aren’t in great shape. While a good diet and workout regimen are very important, there are certain situations out there where it’s hard, nay, impossible, to have the perfect body.

At Advanced Plastic Surgery in Grand Rapids, MI, we want to help our male patients shed the unwanted appearance that comes from having “man boobs”, or medically speaking Gynecomastia with Male Breast Reduction surgery. If you feel like you could use some help and would like to learn more, please keep reading below for more information on this very helpful procedure.

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What is male breast reduction?

Gynecomastia is a medical term that originates from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” This condition is far more common than many realize. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of the male population. It may affect only one breast or both. Although certain drugs such as anabolic steroids, medications containing estrogen, alcohol, marijuana, etc., and medical conditions including cancer, and impaired liver function, to name a few, may cause or contribute to enlarged male breasts, it is widely accepted that a large percentage of cases derive from unknown sources.

Enlarged male breasts can be reduced by liposuction and/or by cutting out excess glandular tissue. The procedure for male breast reduction takes an average of two hours, usually on an outpatient basis, using general or local anesthesia. If excessive glandular tissue, fat, and skin are present, they will be removed.

What are the Benefits of a Male Breast Reduction?

Dr. Timek has seen her Gran Rapids patients reap the following benefits from their Male Breast Reduction procedure:

  • Achieve a healthier weight easier
  • Alleviate back pain
  • Comfortable procedure
  • Creates a more masculine figure
  • Enhanced confidence and self-esteem
  • Enjoy more clothing options
  • Improved posture
  • Participate in more physical activities

Who are the Best Candidates for a Male Breast Reduction?

The best candidates for Gynecomastia surgery are men who are healthy and emotionally stable. It also helps to have firm, elastic skin that will reshape the body’s new contours. We strongly recommend trying to exercise to lose weight and achieve the body type that you are looking for before looking into surgery. Only after you have attempted to lose weight through a healthy lifestyle of diet and exercise should you consider Male Breast Reduction.

“Enjoy your handsome self!”

– Ewa Timek, MD

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What’s The First Step?

If you are interested in Male Breast Reduction surgery in Grand Rapids, the first step you will need to do is schedule a consultation with Dr. Timek at Advanced Plastic Surgery. When you come in for this appointment, you will be able to express your concerns and ask questions regarding the procedure. Dr. Timek will happily walk you through the process and examine your body and ask you questions about your health and medical background. Once she has the information she needs, a personalized surgical plan will be made for you, and if you agree with this plan, she will speak with our Patient Coordinator to schedule the date and time for your Gynecomastia procedure.

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What To Expect on the day of male breast reduction?

Depending on how much change needs to occur, Dr. Timek may only use a form of Liposuction to remove breast tissue. In more extreme cases, she may have to resort to incisions.

When you come in for your procedure, it will begin with you needing to be sedated, whether that be general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Regardless of the method chosen by you and Dr. Timek, once you are sedated, your experience during the procedure should be overall painless.

If you are having only Liposuction performed, a small, deliberate incision will be made to be able to insert a tiny suction hose. She will use the tube to dislodge fat and then suck out the excess fat.

If you require a more invasive surgery due to excess skin, fat, and tissue, Dr. Timek will make a larger incision to remove the breast tissue. If necessary, she may also reposition your nipple and areola. The incision patterns, lengths, and locations will be determined by the size of your breasts and your desired look.

For some patients, a combination of these two techniques will be used to achieve your optimal appearance.

Male Breast Reduction Recovery

Following your procedure, you will be able to return home, but you should have a friend or family member drive you home. There will be some post-operative bruising, swelling, and burning sensation. To assist with the healing process, you will need to wear an elastic pressure garment for 3-6 weeks and must avoid exposing scarred areas to the sun for at least 6 months.

There is little downtime, and you may return to work within one week usually unless you are involved in strenuous activities.

There will be scarring around the nipple of the breast (areola) from this procedure but will fade over a period of time and be less visible. Results are permanent, although subsequent obesity can create a gynecomastia-like effect.

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AVERAGE COST

how much does male breast reduction cost in grand rapids?

The cost of Male Breast Reduction in Grand Rapids is highly dependent on the degree of change you are looking to achieve and the techniques used, among other factors. The most accurate way to find out how much your procedure will be is to come in for a consultation with Dr. Timek so she can customize your surgical plan. After your plan is made, our Patient Coordinator will be able to give you a breakdown of the entirety of your procedure.

Why Choose
Advanced Plastic Surgery

At Advanced Plastic Surgery in Grand Rapids, MI, we practice a broad spectrum of cosmetic, reconstructive, and non-surgical procedures. Led by Dr. Ewa Timek, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the latest, most up-to-date, and evidence-based information. Dr. Timek has been a board-certified plastic surgeon for over 15 years and strives to provide a comfortable and friendly environment with a knowledgeable and caring staff. As a proud member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society of Reconstruction Microsurgery (ASRM), Dr. Timek performs all types of procedures that help build confidence in her patients.

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BECOME A PATIENT

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A Male Breast Reduction in Grand Rapids can be a life-changing experience for so many men, both for their lifestyle and self-esteem. If you feel like you’ve tried everything and you still have “man boobs”, Advanced Plastic Surgery wants to help you out. Call our office at (616) 323-3102 or request an appointment through our website and a member of our team will be happy to get in touch with you.

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Patient Resources
Advanced Plastic Surgery

We’re here to help, with a number of patient resources designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Read through the materials below, and don’t hesitate to reach out.

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