Gynecomastia Surgery Cleveland

Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
Westlake & Cleveland, OH

Gynecomastia, the medical condition characterized by enlarged male breasts, is more common than you might think. Experts estimate that between 40 and 60 percent of men have oversized breasts, and unfortunately diet and exercise efforts often go unnoticed. While weight loss efforts may reduce fat, they won’t affect glandular tissue, which is often the culprit behind oversized male breasts. The most effective way to reduce oversized breasts is to undergo surgical treatment with plastic surgeon Dr. Joyesh Raj.

Dr. Raj Can Help

Dr. Raj is the plastic surgeon of choice for men with gynecomastia. Because of him, men that once suffered low self-esteem because of gynecomastia now enjoy greater confidence and a better quality of life. Dr. Raj is not only highly skilled, but also compassionate. He understands the desire for a more classically masculine appearance, and he has the skills to produce that outcome. Dr. Raj is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is the chief of plastic surgery at Fairview Hospital in Cleveland and is an active member of the leading plastic surgery organizations. When you trust Dr. Raj with your gynecomastia correction, you could not be in better hands.

How the Operation Enhances Masculinity

Oversized male breasts are uncomfortable in both a physical and psychological sense. Men with enlarged breasts are usually very self-conscious of the way they look. They might avoid wearing certain types of clothing or participating in certain activities because they feel embarrassed of their chest. In the most extreme cases, men with large breasts hold themselves back from professional or social opportunities because they are paralyzed with shame or embarrassment.
The correction of gynecomastia will restore a classically masculine appearance to your chest and pecs. With the improved appearance comes an incredible boost of confidence. Suddenly, you feel confident in yourself. You are no longer embarrassed to go to the gym, pool or beach. Your clothing fits better and you can wear tighter styles. Overall, you will have the confidence you need to live life to the fullest.

More about Gynecomastia Correction

Male Breast Reduction Surgery Westlake, OHThere are several components to the gynecomastia correction operation:

Remove excess fat. Excess pockets of fat are eliminated using liposuction techniques.

Remove excess glandular tissue. Unlike fat, glandular tissue cannot be treated with liposuction. The glandular tissue must be surgically excised from the chest.

Remove excess skin. Excess lax skin is removed to improve the appearance of sagging.

Tighten the remaining skin. The remaining skin is tightened over the new breast contour.

Modify the nipples/areolas. If the areolas are stretched-out or oversized, they can be modified as needed. The nipples/areolas can also be relocated to a higher position on the breast.

Most men are concerned about the possibility of scarring from the surgical incisions. Dr. Raj is extremely conscientious when making the incisions and places them carefully to minimize the possibility of scarring. Normally, the scarring fades over time until it is virtually invisible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gynecomastia

Are there any age requirements for gynecomastia surgery?

Surgery is typically not recommended for candidates under the age of 18, as the chest may still be developing. However, in cases of very severe gynecomastia, Dr. Raj may recommend surgery for teenagers.

What causes gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia, or an increase in the amount of glandular breast tissue in men, is caused by a hormonal imbalance. Factors that can upset the balance of a man’s hormones include:

  • Certain medications – e.g., anti-androgens, AIDS medications
  • Certain health conditions – e.g., hypogonadism, some tumors, thyroid disorder
  • Anabolic steroids
  • Street drugs
  • Excessive amounts of alcohol

Can exercise cure gynecomastia?

Exercise can reduce unwanted fat in the chest area but it cannot affect glandular tissue, which is denser. Certain men in excellent physical shape who exercise regularly still struggle with oversized breasts due to the glandular tissue.

What is pseudogynecomastia?

Pseudogynecomastia refers to an enlargement of the chest primarily due to a buildup of fat. This condition is often treated by removing fat with liposuction.

Is surgery painful?

No. Anesthesia is used during surgery to prevent any pain or discomfort. The type of anesthesia will depend on the scope of surgery, any medical constraints and other factors. Dr. Raj will prescribe you pain medication to take after surgery if needed.

Will I need to stay in the hospital after gynecomastia surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at a local hospital or surgery center. As long as you have someone to take you home and stay with you for 24 hours, you will be released shortly after your procedure.

What is the recovery like after gynecomastia surgery?

Every patient recovers differently, depending on their age, health and the scope of the procedure. Mild swelling, bruising and a tight sensation in the chest are common after surgery. Some patients describe feeling sore, as if they just completed a strenuous workout, in the days immediately following the procedure. Severe pain is rare.

Expect to take about a week off from work and socializing. Dr. Raj will advise when it is safe to resume light exercise and strenuous activities, including heavy lifting. Most men usually resume light exercise two weeks after surgery and strenuous exercise approximately four to six weeks after surgery.

When can I drive again after surgery?

You can drive as soon as you have stopped taking narcotic pain medication and do not have any discomfort that could limit the movements you might need to make while driving.

Will I have noticeable scarring from surgery?

Scarring is a big concern for many of Dr. Raj’s patients. But Dr. Raj takes great care when planning and creating the surgical incisions to minimize scarring. In many cases, there is only minimal scarring around the areola, which fades into the natural transitions of the skin.

Can surgery reduce the size of my nipples?

Yes, oversized or puffy areolas and nipples can be reduced during surgery.

Will I lose nipple sensation after gynecomastia surgery?

It is highly unlikely that you will permanently lose nipple sensation after surgery.

Can gynecomastia return after surgery?

Gaining weight, taking steroids or using drugs that disrupt the balance of the hormones can cause your breasts to enlarge again after surgery. Dr. Raj will talk with you about preventing a recurrence of gynecomastia after surgery.

Talk to Dr. Raj about Gynecomastia

If you are self-conscious of oversized breasts, schedule a consultation with Dr. Raj to get more information about your treatment options. Call (440) 808-8030 today to make your appointment.

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