What Is the Most Common Breast Lift Incision Type?

October 27, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

The breast lift incision type you choose is basically the location where your plastic surgeon places cuts to excise excess skin, fat, and tissue from the breast. Wherever these incisions are, scars will form. Fortunately, scars from each breast lift incision opening should not be too noticeable after several months — and especially after several years — because they will fade and flatten with time.

So, what’s the most common breast lift incision type?

Before we can answer this question, we must first provide a brief overview of the four main breast lift incision options available to you.

Basic Overview of Breast Lift Incision Types

#1 – Crescent Breast Lift Incision

The crescent breast lift incision is a subtle yet effective technique used in breast lift procedures. It involves making a small incision along the upper half of the areola.

This method is ideal for patients with minor sagging issues as it provides only a slight lift. But even though it may not provide dramatic results, it’s a suitable choice for those looking for a slight enhancement — and with minimal scarring.

#2 – Donut Breast Lift Incision

The donut breast lift incision — also known as the periareolar incision when performed with breast augmentation — encircles the outside of each areola. This approach is popular for patients who have moderate breast sagging and who are seeking an improved overall breast shape.

In addition to getting rid of excess breast skin and breast tissue, this type of breast lift procedure also allows your surgeon to reposition the nipple and reduce the size of the areola if needed. Each incision encircles the areola, but they typically heal well so that the breast lift scars are not highly noticeable.

#3 – Lollipop Breast Lift Incision

The lollipop breast lift incision combines two incisions: one around each areola and a vertical incision extending from each areola to the breast crease. The result appears in the shape of a lollipop.

This surgical procedure is effective for breast lift patients who have moderate to severe sagging breasts. While there is more scarring compared to the previous two techniques, this method does provide better reshaping and lifting results than the crescent and donut methods.

#4 – Anchor Breast Lift Incision

Lastly, the anchor breast lift incision — also called the Wise pattern incision — is the most comprehensive approach to sagging breasts. It involves three incisions on each breast: one around the areola, one made vertically from the areola to the breast crease, and one made horizontally along the breast crease (inframammary fold).

This method is suitable for patients with severe breast sagging. It provides the most dramatic lift and reshaping results. And while the scarring is more noticeable, it typically becomes less noticeable as time passes. Incidentally, the anchor incision pattern can also be used with a breast reduction to remove excess fat, tissue, and skin, effectively reducing the overall size of the breasts.

What’s the Most Common Breast Lift Incision?

The most common breast lift incision technique is likely the lollipop incision, though it always depends on the individual patient.

The truth is that for most patients, the lollipop incision strikes a good balance between effectiveness and minimal scarring. So, patients can achieve a substantial lift of the underlying breast tissue while removing excess skin and emphasizing the patient’s own natural breast contours.

What Does a Breast Lift Incision Look Like?

The appearance of a given breast lift incision will vary depending on the technique and incision pattern that is used.

The crescent incision results in a small scar along the upper areola. The donut incision encircles the areola. The lollipop incision involves a circular incision around the areola and a vertical line to the breast crease. The anchor incision is the most extensive, with three incisions around the areola, vertically to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.

As far as scarring goes, most incisions will appear bright red or pink as they initially heal. Then, they will fade to a lighter pink, and then a soft white, over time. Patients will darker skin may notice their scars fade to a darker shade than their natural skin tone.

But in order for proper healing to occur, patients must attend to their incisions carefully, care for their scars by applying the required compression garments and or silicone gels or sheets, avoid the sun, and have patience. With proper care and attention, most scars from plastic surgery procedures like breast lifts will fade and flatten out nicely.

FAQ: Breast Lifts & Breast Lift Incisions

How long do breast lift incisions take to heal?

The average breast lift incision healing time is around two to four weeks initially. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely during this time.

Is the incision painful after breast lift surgery?

Amidst the breast lift recovery time, some discomfort and pain should be expected, especially over the first few days. Your surgeon can prescribe pain medication to manage this, and it should improve as time goes on.

What if my breast lift incision is not healing?

A breast lift incision not healing is a sign that something is wrong. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive redness, swelling, discharge, or signs of infection, it’s crucial to contact your surgeon immediately to address the issue and prevent complications.

How much does a breast lift cost?

The cost of a breast lift will ultimately vary depending on where you have surgery, who performs it, and whether you add additional procedures. You must consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for an accurate cost estimate that is tailored to your specific needs.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment

Interested in scheduling a breast lift consultation to learn more?

When deciding on the best incision type for your breast lift surgery, it’s best to work directly with your plastic surgeon. Ensure you choose a board certified surgeon with long-term experience performing breast lifts.

Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber has extensive breast lift experience and can help you make the ideal breast lift incision choice for your goals and anatomy. Call today to book a consultation appointment with Dr. Sieber.

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-is-a-breast-lift-and-what-are-the-benefits-of-this-procedure

Liposuction for Men is on the Rise

Articles

October 26, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Men are not traditionally viewed as people who “need” cosmetic surgery. For many years, the common refrain was that if men could not slim down and tone up by routine approaches like diet and exercise, then that was that. Despite the myth that it is acceptable for men to “let themselves go” while only women are expected to keep it together, more and more men have spoken out that they, too, would like to look their best.

The issue is more than skin-deep, too. In recent years, “male body-image dissatisfaction has tripled in the last 25 years, from 15% of the population to 45%.” This can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as restrictive diets, anorexia, bulimia and more. Many men, while they don’t turn to harmful behaviors, simply feel a lack of confidence or serenity that disrupts their everyday functioning.

It doesn’t have to be like that. The upside is that as men increasingly recognize this problem, more and more see no reason why they shouldn’t turn to the same methods that women do. Especially, methods such as liposuction for men in San Francisco.

What Is Male Liposuction?

Male liposuction is the same body contouring procedure that is done on women. “Liposuction, also called lipoplasty, liposculpture suction, lipectomy, or lipo, is a type of cosmetic surgery that breaks up and ‘sucks’ excess fat from the body. It is often used on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, chin, upper and backs of the arms, calves, and back.”

How does it work? “The fat is removed through a hollow instrument, known as a cannula. This is inserted under the skin. A powerful, high-pressure vacuum is applied to the cannula.” The fat flows through this vacuum, is collected and disposed of. Because fat cells do not reproduce in the body, the result is that you not only have less fat, but you have fewer storage sites for future fat collection.

What Do the Trends Say?

The trends might surprise you. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were almost 16 million cosmetic procedures performed in 2018. About 14 million of those are minimally invasive (e.g. Botox injections or microdermabrasion), while about 1.6 million of them are invasive surgical procedures – the heading under which male liposuction falls.

Of those totals, men received 214,000 surgical procedures and roughly 1.1 million minimally invasive ones. That’s a total of about 1.3 million procedures overall. That means that more than 8 percent of procedures are now performed on men. The statistics for invasive procedures (like liposuction) are even higher: nearly 13 percent. As for male liposuction itself, about 11.5 percent were men. Total men received nearly 30,000 liposuction procedures in 2013.

The takeaway: This is no longer an exception. Men now routinely turn to body countouring procedures like these to regain the bodies of their youth. In fact, these procedures even have cute names now: just like a Mommy Makeover, we now have the Daddy Do-Over!

What Is Involved in a Liposuction for Men Procedure?

Your board certified plastic surgeon will tell you that typically the plastic surgery is carried out under anesthesia. In pure male liposuction surgery, doctors make an incision, insert the cannula and remove the fat before suturing the spot back together. In some cases, they may need to make multiple incisions. Men can choose to get liposuction on bellies, love handles, breasts or thighs.

Many men, however, choose to combine multiple procedures. For instance, a full abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck” is often combined with male liposuction. This is when the physicians not only remove fat cells but also, by way of a tummy tuck, remove flaps of skin and muscle, pulling the remaining tissues together and suturing them in place. This creates a tighter appearance overall, makes muscles more apparent and returns the physique to a slim, streamlined form.

Because men have greater skin elasticity than women, it is often easier for them to maintain the integrity of muscles and other tissue even after they have gained lots of weight. So for you, it may not be necessary or desirable to combine with abdominoplasty. That’s something to ask your physician about.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Again, while historically women are viewed as the main – if not the only – targets of the cosmetic surgery market, liposuction for men is now a target as well. That means that anyone who is male and wants to see improvements in stubborn parts of their body is now a good candidate, provided they meet several other health measures as well. These include:

People who have reached the limits of their progress through a healthy diet and exercise, and are frustrated by stubborn fat deposits
People who are in good physical condition
Men who don’t smoke, or who can at least commit to quitting for a month before and after the procedure to allow the body to heal properly

Questions and answers

Is liposuction worth it for men?

Because men’s skin maintains elasticity for a longer period compared to women, the underlying fat is firmer, rendering male liposuction an exceptionally efficient technique for body contouring.

What does liposuction do for men?

Liposuction offers men an effective solution to eliminate persistent pockets of subcutaneous fat that impede their desired youthful and toned appearance. This procedure involves the insertion of a small tube into the body to suction out fat, resulting in a slimmer and sculpted physique.

How painful is liposuction for men?

During your liposuction procedure, you will be under general anesthesia, ensuring you won’t experience any pain. Any discomfort during the recovery phase can be effectively managed with either prescribed or over-the-counter medications.

How much weight can a man lose with liposuction?

If you have already reached your target weight, liposuction typically results in a fat loss ranging from one to three pounds. However, if you haven’t reached your goal weight yet, it might be safe to expect a loss of around 10 to 11 pounds through liposuction, depending on your body mass.

What is Vaser Liposuction for men?

Vaser Liposuction for men offers exceptional contouring possibilities. This advanced technique is a kind of ultrasound assisted liposuction that enables thorough fat removal, revealing underlying muscles.

How much does liposuction for men cost?

Male liposuction cost is comparable to other liposuction cost. The starting cost for a single area is consistent, while full-body liposuction and contouring can vary significantly

Book Your Consultation

If that sounds like you, there’s a good chance you’re a candidate for male liposuction. Before you commit to the procedure, however, it’s smart to set up a consultation with an expert such as San Francisco Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sieber. We’ll walk you through the procedure, offer a San Francisco liposuction consultation of your options and help you understand which is best for you. All you have to do is get in touch today!

References

The Modern Male And Body Image: It’s Okay To Talk About It. (ND). Retrieved from https://breakingmuscle.com/fitness/the-modern-male-and-body-image-its-okay-to-talk-about-it
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Liposuction? (2018). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180450.php
2018 Cosmetic Surgery Gender Distribution. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2018/cosmetic-procedures-men-2018.pdf

*Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. Editorial content, before and after images, and patient testimonials do not constitute a guarantee of specific results.

Are You a Candidate for Male Liposuction?

Articles

October 25, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

In 2019, over 265,000 liposuction procedures were performed in America, and roughly 30,000 of those procedures were performed on men. While facial procedures like neck lifts and eyelid rejuvenations are still the most popular cosmetic surgeries for men, male liposuction consistently comes in at a close third and is slowly making its way toward the top.

With its near-instant ability to reshape the abdomen and other “problem areas” to its subtle, almost invisible scars, a liposuction procedure is an excellent procedure for men who just need one extra boost to top off their attractive physique.

If you’ve tried everything from a strict healthy diet to rigorous exercise regimens, and you still can’t seem to get rid of small pockets of stubborn fat, then liposuction for men may be just what you’re looking for. Use the following guide to find out if you might be a good candidate for male liposuction.

First, however, let’s define what the liposuction procedure is and what the procedure aims to do.

What Is Male Liposuction?

Liposuction surgery (also called “lipo”) is a cosmetic procedure that removes unwanted pockets of excess fat by using a cannula (thin hollow tube) to agitate the excess fat beneath the skin and suck it out. The procedure is safe, effective, and long-lasting as long as the patient maintains a healthy weight after their plastic surgery.

Male liposuction can be performed on many different areas of the body, including the:

Abdomen
Buttocks
Flanks (“love handles”)
Hips
Thighs
Calves
Ankles
Upper arms
Chin/neck area

If you are interested in male liposuction, you can expect an outpatient procedure and a recovery period that will last several months. While most patients are able to return to work within several days, it may take one to two weeks before you can return to a regular exercise routine and up to three months to see all of the swelling go down. The majority of patients achieve their final results within three to six months after plastic surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Male Liposuction?

This is the first question most people ask, and it’s a good one.

Most of us, at one time or another, have struggled with excess fat on our bodies. But does that mean that anyone with a few pounds to lose should get liposuction?

Not necessarily.

In fact, it’s important to keep in mind that male liposuction is not a “weight loss solution.” The core purpose of liposuction for men is to get rid of stubborn fat deposits — that is, fat that doesn’t seem to budge despite your most concerted efforts to drop it with diet and exercise. Sometimes, our bodies simply retain fat cells in undesirable areas (usually, the abdomen, hips and thighs, upper arms, etc.). Liposuction for men is a body contouring procedure that targets subcutaneous fat resulting in a more pleasing figure.

A board certified plastic surgeon will tell you if you have this type of fat lurking around, lipo could be a good option for you. Generally speaking, we say that if you are within 10 lbs. of your goal weight, a liposuction procedure can help get rid of those last few pounds of stubborn fat deposits. Liposuction for men is an effective body contouring procedure that is growing in popularity year after year. Otherwise, if you have more to lose, we recommend continuing with your exercise and diet regimen in order to get to that 10-lbs.-to-goal-weight mark. At that point, we can book your consultation appointment and go from there.

Of course, there are additional requirements you’ll need to meet as well. In order to be a candidate for male liposuction, you also must:

Be in good overall physical health: No ongoing infections, serious medical conditions or treatments
Have realistic expectations: Be balanced — not a perfectionist — about what you expect from liposuction for men
Be a non-smoker: Smoking can exacerbate the potential risks of surgery and your recovery; if you do smoke, talk to Dr. Sieber about your options
Have relatively good muscle tone and elastic, firm skin

Know if You Qualify

Ultimately, the best way to know if you qualify for male liposuction is to book a consultation.

During this appointment, you should be prepared to discuss a range of things, from your medical history to what your surgical goals are. Liposuction for men has been growing in popularity, your surgeon will be able to answer any of the questions you have. Coming prepared for and knowledgeable about the procedure is always helpful. Dr. Sieber will ask you a range of questions, from what medications you are currently on to whether you take any supplements or vitamins and how often you exercise.

You should be ready to talk about any medical conditions you have or have had in the past, and be sure to mention any previous surgeries you’ve undergone. Don’t leave anything out, and be completely honest so that he can ensure that this procedure will be safe and effective for you.

At the same appointment, he will give you a short physical evaluation, assessing your overall health and physique. Most of the time, photographs will be taken so that you can see the effects of the procedure in a liposuction before and after side-by-side photos.

Lastly, Dr. David Sieber will explain your options and make a recommendation on the best course of action for you. He’ll also discuss the risks and rare, but potential complications of liposuction for men.

Questions and Answers

You started this journey by entering “what’s the best San Francisco liposuction near me?” into Google. But now you’ve got more questions to ask.

In fact, asking the right questions is the best thing you can do as a potential candidate for male liposuction. You should ask questions at your consultation appointment, before your surgery, after your surgery, and during your recovery.

Here are some to keep in mind as you prepare for your consultation appointment with Dr. Sieber. We recommend bringing a notepad with you, and writing these questions inside, following each one with some space where you can take notes when the doctor’s talking.

Where’s the best place for me to get liposuction?

Liposuction frequently targets the waist and flanks, commonly referred to as “love handles.” Many individuals find it exceptionally challenging to eliminate these areas and achieve their desired contours solely through diet and exercise.

Where will my surgery be performed?

Liposuction is a versatile procedure that can be performed on nearly any body part. The neck, arms, abdomen, love handles, and thighs are the most frequently requested areas. These regions often accumulate weight easily and harbor stubborn fat resistant to exercise.

What should I expect from recovery?

Following liposuction, the treated area will be wrapped to minimize swelling, bruising, and discomfort. This wrap could be a compression garment or elastic bandages. Typically, you might need to wear it for 3 to 4 weeks. In cases where fat was removed from your calves or ankles, wearing support hose for approximately 6 weeks might be necessary.

For how long will I need to take off from work or school?

Most individuals can resume work after a two-week recovery period. However, if your job is physically demanding, it might be wise to take extra time off for a more complete recovery. It’s important to note that you’ll still need to wear your compression garments during this extended recovery period.

Will I have pain or discomfort after surgery?

After effects of the local anesthetic subside following surgery, you might experience moderate pain and soreness. Approximately 3 to 5 days after the surgical procedure, your garments will be taken off, and a physician will examine your incision. Following this, we encourage patients to gently massage the area as the swelling gradually reduces in the coming months.

What type of scarring should I expect?

Should you develop scarring after liposuction surgery, it will typically manifest as a tiny mark resembling a freckle. In the majority of instances, a scar of this size will gradually diminish over the next six months until it becomes barely perceptible. Occasionally, there might be hyperpigmentation at the site of the incision.

Are there things I can do to reduce the appearance of scars?

Once the incisions have completely healed, consider applying silicone gel sheets. Even after the skin has healed, liposuction scars might remain noticeable. Silicone gel sheets offer a highly effective solution to enhance the appearance of these scars. They work by optimizing skin hydration, significantly improving the overall outcome.

When will I start to see my results?

You can expect to see your final results results between 4 – 12 weeks after surgery.

Does liposuction for men cost the same as liposuction for women?

There is no comparative difference between male liposuction cost and the cost of lipo for women.

How is liposuction different than a tummy tuck?

Liposuction for men is a cosmetic surgery that targets fat deposits while a tummy tuck is a surgery that focuses on excess skin around the abdomen.

Book Your Appointment Today

Dr. Sieber is one of the only double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to his many degrees, honors, and accolades, he is an extremely skilled board certified plastic surgeon with vast experience and a wonderful bedside manner.

By performing thousands of procedures for his many patients, Dr. Sieber has helped countless individuals improve their appearance and feel better about themselves.

Are you ready to find out if you’re a good candidate for male liposuction in San Francisco? Contact us today to book your consultation appointment.

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2019/plastic-surgery-statistics-full-report-2019.pdf

Where Are Breast Implant Incisions Located?

Articles

October 20, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Breast implant incisions are the openings plastic surgeons make for the insertion of saline or silicone implants during breast augmentation surgery. However, one thing that not a lot of people know is that there are different types of breast implant incisions.

As you approach your breast augmentation procedure, deciding on the best incision location for you will be something you’ll need to discuss with your plastic surgeon. Naturally, some of the decision will lie with you and your personal preferences and aesthetic goals. But plastic surgeons also have the skill and experience required to judge what the best incision placement will be for your anatomy and the types of breast implants you choose.

What Is the Best Breast Implant Incision Location?

Every plastic surgeon is different, every patient is different, and every breast enhancement surgery is different. Therefore, we cannot recommend “the best” breast augmentation incisions for everyone.

Instead, we can go over the four incision locations available so that you can get a strong understanding of the options available to you.

Option #1 – Inframammary Incision

The inframammary incision, often referred to as the breast fold incision, is a popular choice among patients and surgeons. Positioned discreetly beneath the breast along the breast crease (inframammary fold), inframammary incisions provide surgeons with precise access for implant placement.

Let’s look at the pros and cons.

Inframammary Incision Pros

Good access and visibility for accurate implant placement.
Concealment beneath the breast, bras, and swimwear for minimal visibility.
Possibility of reopening the incision for future procedures without additional scarring.
Enhanced surgical precision due to proximity to the operating area.
No added risk of nipple nerve damage or interference with milk ducts for breastfeeding.

Inframammary Incision Cons

Scar migration potential, leading to stretching.
Challenging incision placement for those with no natural breast crease.
May limit flexibility for future breast size changes.

Option #2 – Periareolar Incision

The periareolar incision, made between the areola and surrounding skin (along the outer edge of the areola), offers a scar that can be skillfully hidden. Still, like any option, it comes with its own set of disadvantages as well.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.

Perioareolar Incision Pros

Close to implant location for precise insertion.
Scar healing often surpasses other incision types.
Potential for reopening the incision for future breast procedures.
Possibility of nearly invisible scarring if meticulously placed along the edge of the areola.

Perioareolar Incision Cons

Potential for altered nipple sensation, though rare.
Slight risk of hindering breastfeeding, though rare.
May be increased risk of capsular contracture.
Possibility of noticeable or raised scarring, though rare.

Option #3 – Transaxillary Incision

The transaxillary incision, also known as the under the armpit incision, is a modern approach. It leaves the breasts untouched, which many patients desire. But, of course, it comes with its own drawbacks as well.

Here are the pros and cons.

Transaxillary Incision Pros

Minimal interference with mammary glands, making it ideal for future mothers.
No visible scarring on the breasts, enabling various clothing choices.

Transaxillary Incision Cons

Though typically hard-to-see, there is potential for noticeable scars in the armpit area.
Challenges with implant placement in the optimal “dual plane location.”
Reduced control over implant position.

Option #4 – Trans-Umbilical Incisions

The trans-umbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) incision is a unique technique that is rarely used. In fact, it can only be used with a saline implant.

During a TUBA procedure, a surgeon creates an incision in the belly button for the insertion of the implant. The breast implant must then be guided up the abdomen for placement. This option presents specific advantages and drawbacks.

Let’s examine the pros and cons of the TUBA incision location.

Trans-Umbilical Incision Pros

Minimal interference with breasts and nipple sensation.
Nearly undetectable scarring within the naval folds.
May have shorter recovery time compared to other incision types.

Trans-Umbilical Incision Cons

Inability to reopen the scar for future revisions.
Higher risk of implant distortion because of limited ability to be precise in placement.
Only an option for saline implants.
Incompatibility with combined procedures like a breast lift.
Requires unique skill and training, which many plastic surgeons don’t have.

FAQ: Breast Implant Incisions and Healing

What is the most common incision for breast implants?

The most common incision for breast implants is the inframammary incision, which is discreetly located beneath the breast along the inframammary fold. It leaves the surrounding breast skin scarless, and the crease and breast conceal the scars.

How big is the incision for breast augmentation?

The size of the incision for breast augmentation varies but can range from one to four inches depending on the size, material, and shape of the implant and which implant insertion location is chosen.

Can you put Neosporin on breast implant incisions?

It’s generally not recommended to use Neosporin or similar ointments on breast implant incisions without consulting your surgeon. They will provide specific aftercare instructions to promote proper healing.

How long do breast implant incisions take to heal

Breast implant incisions typically take several weeks to heal externally. However, if you want to know how long for breast implant incisions to heal internally, the complete healing process (including breast tissue scar maturation) can take several months.

What is a lollipop incision for breast implants?

A lollipop incision is a surgical technique used in breast augmentation where the breast implant incision is made around the areola and extends vertically down from the areola to the breast crease. The resulting pattern resembles a lollipop shape.

This is often an incision pattern required for breast lift surgery. Therefore, if a patient desires breast enhancement surgery that includes both a breast lift and breast implants, this approach is frequently used.

Call to Set Up a Consultation With Dr. Sieber

With each breast augmentation surgery, many decisions must be made. What types of breast implants are right for you? Silicone vs saline implants? Round or teardrop implants? Low or high profile? What breast implant size?

Breast augmentation incision location is just one more decision you’ll need to make — but it’s a crucial one. In order to make the best choice for you and avoid revision surgery, it’s important to work with an experienced plastic surgeon who is also board certified.

Dr. Sieber is a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing breast augmentation surgery for patients in San Francisco and the surrounding areas. Call today to schedule your personal appointment with Dr. Sieber.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-augmentation/multimedia/breast-augmentation-incision-sites/img-20007382

Gynecomastia Surgery, Men and Plastic Surgery

Articles

October 20, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Like women, men also have breast tissue. While men don’t develop breasts in the same way as women do, they’re still born with breast tissue, but it’s a small amount. However, men don’t usually want larger breasts, like women.

Gynecomastia surgery isn’t always a severe issue, but if you’re dealing with this condition, it can be difficult to cope with it. You’re likely embarrassed or may be experiencing pain in your breasts.

Men with gynecomastia are often self-conscious about how they look and seek treatment options to help reduce the size of their man boobs. Fortunately, there are effective plastic surgery treatments for men with gynecomastia that produce great results.

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia is a condition that causes mens’ and boys’ breast tissue to swell. Gynecomastia comes from the Greek words “gynec”, which means feminine, and “mastos”, which means breast. Gynecomastia can occur when two of your body’s hormones become unbalanced or thrown off.

Boys’ bodies mostly produce testosterone. During puberty, this hormone guides their sexual growth. However, they also make the same hormone that guides girls’ sexual growth — estrogen. The balance of testosterone and estrogen change during puberty as a boy or when there’s less testosterone being produced in an older man’s body. In certain cases when this occurs, there’s a greater amount of estrogen, which leads to enlarged male breast tissue.

Two common signs of gynecomastia are:

Breast tenderness
Enlarged breast tissue

Usually, when you develop gynecomastia, you might notice a fatty tissue lump under your nipple which can be sore or tender. You may worry it’s breast cancer. However, when you have gynecomastia, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, though you’ll still want your doctor to do some testing to be sure.

Only a small number develop male breast cancer, though. In fact, the American Cancer Society reports that in their lifetime, men have about 1 in 833 risk of developing breast cancer.

You may experience uneven breast swelling where one breast is bigger than the other. The condition could go away without treatment, but if not, your doctor will sit down with you to discuss treatment options.

Prevalence of Gynecomastia

Adult men struggle with gynecomastia the most. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), between 50% to 60% of gynecomastia cases are in adolescent males. And, around 65% of men ages 27 through 92 have developed some degree of gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia doesn’t have to take away your confidence. A qualified and skilled plastic and reconstructive surgeon can help you get back a more natural and masculine looking chest. The advanced techniques today mean:

Shorter surgeries
Quicker recovery
Nearly invisible scars

Below you’ll learn more about male breast reduction surgery.

Plastic Surgery for Men With Gynecomastia

A male breast reduction, or also called reduction mammaplasty, is the most effective gynecomastia surgery treatment option. With this cosmetic procedure, the surgeon eliminates excess breast tissue and fat tissue, helping to restore a firmer, flatter and more masculine chest contour.

If you have a more serious case of gynecomastia, the excess breast tissue weight could cause breast sagging and areola (dark skin that surrounds your nipples) stretching. In these cases, the surgeon can surgically improve the size and position of your areola and reduce the excess skin.

What are the Types of Gynecomastia Surgery

Two effective types of Gynecomastia procedures are:

Liposuction — for Minor to Moderate Gynecomastia Cases. If your gynecomastia is mostly due to excess fatty tissue, your surgeon might use liposuction techniques where they insert a cannula (hollow, thin tube), through a few small incisions they make. In a controlled motion, they move the cannula back and forth to loosen the excess fat and then use a vacuum suction to remove it from your body. There are a number of liposuction techniques your surgeon will pick from, depending on your individual case.
Surgical Excision — for More Moderate to Severe Cases. Excision techniques are the go-to procedure when you need excess skin or glandular breast tissue removed to correct gynecomastia. It’s also necessary if your surgeon needs to reduce the areola or reposition your nipple to a more natural male contour. The patterns of the incision will depend on your surgical preference and specific condition.

In some cases, the surgeon may use both excision and liposuction to treat gynecomastia.

Are You a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?

You’re a good candidate for gynecomastia surgery if you’re a boy or man and:

Your gynecomastia isn’t treatable through alternative medical treatments
You’re a non-drug user and nonsmoker
You’re healthy and don’t have a life-threatening medical condition or illness that could impair healing
The development of your breasts has stabilized
You have specific goals for improving your physical gynecomastia symptoms and have a positive outlook
You have realistic expectations
You’re of fairly normal weight and are physically healthy
You’re troubled with the feeling of having too enlarged breast

Surgery may be beneficial for adolescents, but they might require secondary procedures in the future if their breast development continues.

What is the Gynecomastia Procedure Like?

Chances are if you’re scheduled for gynecomastia plastic surgery, you’ll have some questions and may not know what to expect.

What Should I Expect During Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery?

During your recovery period from gynecomastia surgery, the surgeon will apply bandages or dressings to your incisions and may use a support garment or elastic bandage to reduce swelling and support the new contour of your chest while it heals from surgery. They’ll provide you with specific instructions on:

How to care for the drains and surgical site
What medicines to take orally or apply topically to help reduce possible infection and promote healing
What potential concerns to keep an eye out in your general health or at your surgical site
When you should follow up with the surgeon

The surgeon may temporarily place a thin, small tube underneath your skin to drain any extra fluid or blood that might collect.

What Results Can I Expect From Gynecomastia Surgery?

You should notice immediate results from your gynecomastia surgery. Over time, incision lines will fade and post-surgical swelling will go away. You should become more satisfied with the results as you recover from the procedure.

Your final gynecomastia surgery results might take three to six months to achieve. While you will have permanent incision lines, they’ll continue fading over time.

Any surgical procedure for correcting gynecomastia will require incisions. And, although your natural contours will conceal most incision lines, you may still see some since they’re a necessary result of gynecomastia surgery. You’ll likely experience enhanced confidence and self-image from your improved upper body results, whether you wear a t-shirt, shirt and tie or a bare chest at the beach.

While there’s no guarantee, you should expect good results from your procedure. You might require more than one procedure to treat gynecomastia to:

Treat any complications you might experience.
Perform additional repositioning or tightening of your excess breast tissue.

Presently, male breast reduction procedure or gynecomastia surgery is the only consistently effective gynecomastia treatment option that’s long-lasting, with potentially permanent results.

Questions and Answers

What is the surgery to removes excess breast tissue in males?

Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty), addresses enlarged male breasts. In severe cases, it may involve a breast lift for a more comprehensive correction.

Is male breast reduction surgery worth it?

Male breast reduction surgery can potentially enhance your self-image and boost your confidence. While the outcomes are often enduring, it’s essential to be aware that factors like weight gain, hormonal fluctuations, or the usage of specific medications, such as anabolic steroids, can lead to a re-enlargement of the breasts in some instances.

How painful is male breast reduction surgery?

Male breast reduction procedures are conducted using either general or local anesthesia, chosen based on specific considerations relevant to the procedure. You’ll be completely numb during the surgery, so you won’t experience any sensations. It’s common to experience some soreness, discomfort, tenderness, and swelling in the days that follow the surgery.

Does insurance cover male breast reduction surgery?

Insurance typically covers male breast reduction surgery when it’s considered “medically necessary.” This typically implies that for adult males, either there’s suspicion of malignancy, or all of the following conditions are met: The patient has been suffering from gynecomastia symptoms for at least one year.

Book Your Male Breast Reduction Surgery Today

Consult with Dr. David Sieber, our double-board certified plastic surgeon to learn about the different types of cosmetic procedures he performs, including male breast reduction for gynecomastia. Call 415-915-9000 or schedule a consultation here.

References

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/about/key-statistics.html

Basic Overview of Breast Lift Incision Types

#1 – Crescent Breast Lift Incision

#2 – Donut Breast Lift Incision

#3 – Lollipop Breast Lift Incision

#4 – Anchor Breast Lift Incision

What’s the Most Common Breast Lift Incision?

What Does a Breast Lift Incision Look Like?

FAQ: Breast Lifts & Breast Lift Incisions

How long do breast lift incisions take to heal?

Is the incision painful after breast lift surgery?

What if my breast lift incision is not healing?

How much does a breast lift cost?

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References

What Is Male Liposuction?

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-9111 size-full" title="Liposuction for Men" src="https://www.sieberplasticsurgery.com/wp-content/uploads/Liposuction-for-Men.jpg" alt="Liposuction for Men" width="300" height="155" />What Do the Trends Say?

What Is Involved in a Liposuction for Men Procedure?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Questions and answers

Is liposuction worth it for men?

What does liposuction do for men?

How painful is liposuction for men?

How much weight can a man lose with liposuction?

What is Vaser Liposuction for men?

How much does liposuction for men cost?

Book Your Consultation

References

What Is Male Liposuction?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Male Liposuction?

Know if You Qualify

Questions and Answers

Where’s the best place for me to get liposuction?

Where will my surgery be performed?

What should I expect from recovery?

For how long will I need to take off from work or school?

Will I have pain or discomfort after surgery?

What type of scarring should I expect?

Are there things I can do to reduce the appearance of scars?

When will I start to see my results?

Does liposuction for men cost the same as liposuction for women?

How is liposuction different than a tummy tuck?

Book Your Appointment Today

References

What Is the Best Breast Implant Incision Location?

Option #1 – Inframammary Incision

Inframammary Incision Pros

Inframammary Incision Cons

Option #2 – Periareolar Incision

Perioareolar Incision Pros

Perioareolar Incision Cons

Option #3 – Transaxillary Incision

Transaxillary Incision Pros

Transaxillary Incision Cons

Option #4 – Trans-Umbilical Incisions

Trans-Umbilical Incision Pros

Trans-Umbilical Incision Cons

FAQ: Breast Implant Incisions and Healing

What is the most common incision for breast implants?

How big is the incision for breast augmentation?

Can you put Neosporin on breast implant incisions?

How long do breast implant incisions take to heal

What is a lollipop incision for breast implants?

Call to Set Up a Consultation With Dr. Sieber

References

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Prevalence of Gynecomastia

What are the Types of Gynecomastia Surgery

Are You a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?

What is the Gynecomastia Procedure Like?

What Should I Expect During Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery?

What Results Can I Expect From Gynecomastia Surgery?

Questions and Answers

What is the surgery to removes excess breast tissue in males?

Is male breast reduction surgery worth it?

How painful is male breast reduction surgery?

Does insurance cover male breast reduction surgery?

Book Your Male Breast Reduction Surgery Today

References

What Do the Trends Say?