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Gynecomastia

For some young men, the pivotal teenage years are made even more emotionally and physically challenging by breast enlargement. Even a small degree of excess fullness in the chest can cause great anxiety and distress. Adult onset gynecomastia from age, weight gain, or weight loss can also negatively affect a man’s self-esteem and intimate relationships.

Men struggling with gynecomastia often try adhering to a strict diet and exercise regimen in hopes of improving the condition, with little to no success. Whether you have puffy nipples or enlarged sagging breasts, male breast reduction surgery is an effective and long-term solution. Request a consultation to learn how you can live without your chest weighing on you.

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Orange County Gynecomastia Treatments

Summary:

  • Surgical treatments for gynecomastia have become less invasive over time, with liposuction being a common approach.
  • Unlike older methods involving large incisions and extensive tissue removal, modern techniques typically involve small incisions and the use of liposuction tubes to remove excess breast tissue.
  • The downtime and healing process post-liposuction are relatively minimal compared to older, more invasive procedures.
  • Patients can generally resume their routine activities within a couple of days, although discomfort levels may vary depending on the extent of the treatment.
  • While larger areas may result in more bruising and discomfort, patients are generally not at risk of causing damage to the treated area and can often return to work or normal activities soon after the procedure.

Transcript:

(00:03) [Host] So what are some of the treatments for gynecomastia? 

[Dr. Horowitz] The surgical treatments are still relatively non-invasive. You could do liposuction for most patients that have gynecomastia. We used to, when I was training in general surgery, it was a much more invasive operation: a big incision to remove all the breast tissue, a lot of healing and scars. And over the years, we’ve found for most men, we’re able to use liposuction equipment to make a small incision or two small incisions and then

(00:37) use the liposuction tubes, the cannulas, to remove most of the breast tissue. Sometimes an additional small incision around the areola area, but it’s relatively non-invasive, and it’s really effective for most men.

[Host] So then what’s the downtime in the healing process for a man that comes in with gynecomastia and they want to have liposuction? 

[Dr. Horowitz] Right, so just like other forms of liposuction, there are two ways of looking at the downtime. Since there’s no major incision, there’s no major incision to heal. We’re not

(01:07) operating on muscle or skin. And removing the fat, you can’t disrupt any incision, so you can go about your business in the next day or two. So the question just becomes how much discomfort you have. So if you have a small amount of gynecomastia, the area is not too big, you can really be doing your routine within a couple of days. If you have a larger area that needs to be treated, you may have more bruising, more discomfort, but that’s up to the individual patient whether they want to go about their normal routine or not. But they can’t

(01:41) cause damage, so if they went back to work even in most jobs they can’t cause any damage to the area that’s had surgery.

Edited for clarity and ease of reading. 

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia (also called “man boobs”) is a common condition among men that results in the enlargement of the breasts. Gynecomastia can present itself in different ways. Breast development from hormone changes can occur on one or both sides of your chest. It may be isolated to the areola alone, causing puffy nipples, or on the opposite side of the spectrum, the chest may be enlarged and saggy, taking on the appearance of female breasts. Some men complain about the area feeling tender or painful.

If your chest is negatively impacting your life, we encourage you to reach out for help. Gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction, is a procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat, and/or skin in males to contour the chest. Our trained surgeons can evaluate your situation and let you know if surgery is the right option for you.

During your consultation at our Newport Beach office, our board-certified surgeons will thoroughly explain what to expect before, during, and after your gynecomastia procedure. They will discuss your goals, examine your chest, and review your medical records to develop a treatment plan based on your unique needs. 

At Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery, we offer various financing options to help you afford gynecomastia surgery. To ensure you get your desired treatment as soon as possible, we can work with you through a simple application process and connect you with our financing partners.

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Gynecomastia Surgery Offered Under Local Or General Anesthesia

Summary:

  • Gynecomastia procedures can be done under local anesthesia, often with oral sedation, or with intravenous sedation and general anesthesia for more extensive cases.
  • The focus is on patient comfort, with many procedures performed in the office under local anesthesia.
  • More extensive procedures involving stretched skin or requiring multiple stages might use IV sedation or general anesthesia.
  • Ensuring patient comfort is a priority to alleviate fears of pain associated with plastic surgery.
  • Gynecomastia surgery is generally painless, with a fast recovery and minimal discomfort.

Transcript:

(00:04) Host: so Dr. Nichter, when a patient comes in for a gynecomastia procedure, is that done under local anesthesia or general?

Dr. Nichter: Well, there are many choices, and basically, we focus heavily on patient comfort. A huge percentage of these are just done in our office under local anesthesia and oftentimes a little oral sedation. But intravenous sedation and even general anesthesia for the more extensive procedures are all available. When I say more extensive, it’s not just the breast volume underneath the skin, but oftentimes the skin is stretched as

(00:38) well. And sometimes, it requires more than one procedure to remove a lot of the excess skin although most of the procedures are done at one stage. And if it’s a larger procedure, sometimes we use IV sedation for that. 

Host: Well I really liked how you stated that you really want the patient to be comfortable, and I think one of the biggest reasons men and women prolong seeing a plastic surgeon for a procedure is because of their fear of the pain. And because I know that’s so important to you and your practice, that should

(01:04) give them a lot of comfort. Dr. Nichter: Yes, this is actually a relatively quote “painless” procedure. The recovery is extremely fast, and there’s very, very little discomfort associated with it.

Learn More About Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia may be influenced by a number of factors, including certain medications, diseases, and hormonal imbalances, like an increase in estrogen and a decrease in testosterone levels. Although most often, it is due to a hormonal imbalance or fluctuation, the underlying cause is rarely identified.

For many men, gynecomastia develops during puberty. It is fairly common for teenage boys to experience enlarged areolas or breasts between the age of 12 and 15. Typically, this goes away within a couple of years with no treatment at all. When it doesn’t, the likelihood of it going away on its own is very low.

Significant weight gain also plays a role in gynecomastia. In a study of gynecomastia patients, researchers analyzed a group of patients that had gynecomastia with no clear underlying cause. Of these patients, 63% were obese. Obesity also increases the prevalence of pseudogynecomastia, or swelling of the breasts due to weight gain, as opposed to hormonal imbalance.

Gynecomastia is also a common development later in the aging process, commonly between the ages of 50 to 69. Changes in hormones and metabolism around this time can lead to physical changes. Some men may have had mild gynecomastia all their lives, and now, as they are aging, the chest skin has loosened, causing the condition to worsen.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery have decades of experience performing gynecomastia surgery on teenagers and adults. Our specialists may perform this procedure in our Newport Beach office or at an outpatient facility, depending on the extent of your surgery.

Before your procedure, our surgical team will administer local or general anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Local anesthesia typically provides a more cost-effective alternative for male breast reduction surgery. Recovery also tends to be easier without the effects of general anesthesia. Your surgeon will let you know if local anesthesia is an option for your procedure during your consultation. 

Depending on your anatomical needs and goals, your Newport Beach surgeon will use the following male breast reduction techniques:

Minimal Incision Gynecomastia Surgery

Our board-certified plastic surgeons understand that most men are concerned about having visible signs that surgery was performed on their chest. Whenever possible, minimal incisions will be used to avoid obvious detection while providing the best results possible.

When excess breast tissue alone is present, an excision will likely be needed for precise removal. This will be done by strategically placing minimal incisions with advanced suturing techniques to ensure they are well hidden.

VASER® Liposuction

Our world-class surgeons may recommend VASER® Liposuction to address fatty tissue, skin laxity, or both. Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance (Vaser®) is a state-of-the-art liposuction tool that uses inaudible sound waves to vibrate and break down fat so it can be easily removed.

This process provides you with a more masculine and defined chest. This revolutionary technology makes fat removal easy and allows your surgeon to perform the entire procedure through tiny, well-hidden incisions. In addition to correcting gynecomastia, many men can also benefit from liposuction of the sides of their chests, abdomen, or love handles at the same time to improve their overall body image.

Many patients return to work within three to five days after gynecomastia surgery. However, with today’s work-from-home culture, you may be able to return to work sooner. 

You should avoid strenuous exercise for about four to six weeks, depending on the extent of your procedure. Your surgeon should clear you before you perform heavy lifting or resume upper body workouts. 

You can expect some swelling, bruising, and general discomfort during the first week, which can be managed with pain relievers, ice packs, and rest. After gynecomastia surgery, your surgeon may instruct you to wear a surgical garment for several weeks to assist with healing and support your newly contoured chest.  

You will likely be able to notice improvements immediately once the initial bandages are removed. However, it can take up to six months to see the final results. Thus, it is important to have patience as you heal and to understand that asymmetries and contour irregularities may take a few weeks to resolve.

Once you heal from surgery, you will likely live free of gynecomastia indefinitely, as the removed fat cells won’t grow back. Leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a stable weight are essential to prolonging your results. If your gynecomastia was caused by certain medications, steroid use, or a medical condition, you must address these issues with your provider before surgery to maintain your results.

Gynecomastia patients report having a renewed sense of confidence and taking pride in wearing their desired clothing without embarrassment. Others are excited to finally be able to take their shirt off at the beach or pool. We often hear from our Newport Beach patients that they wish they hadn’t waited so long to have the procedure!

If your chest causes you physical or emotional discomfort due to enlarged breasts, you will likely benefit from gynecomastia surgery. Candidates for gynecomastia surgery include those with the following concerns:

  • Puffy nipples
  • Abnormally large chest or a feminized chest
  • Unable to develop defined pecs or a masculine chest through exercise alone 
  • Loose skin, leading to a saggy chest
  • Stubborn fat in or around the chest area
  • Breast asymmetry 
  • Lowered nipples/areolas
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Feeling self-conscious wearing tight clothing or going shirtless
  • Intimacy issues 

The best candidates for gynecomastia surgery are in good health and have realistic expectations about male breast reduction. We recommend you visit your primary care doctor or specialist to rule out an underlying condition that may be causing gynecomastia. Our trained, board-certified surgeons in Newport Beach can evaluate your situation and let you know if surgery is a good option for you.

There are several factors that influence the cost of male breast reduction surgery, such as your geographic location and your provider’s experience. The average cost of gynecomastia surgery at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery is $3,600 to $5,400, but this doesn’t include all associated expenses, such as anesthesia and facility fees.

Your total cost will depend on your unique procedure and its complexity and whether it includes advanced technologies such as Vaser® Liposuction. For a more accurate cost estimate, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. We can provide you with an individualized treatment plan and give you a better idea of what to expect.

Take the Next Step

As soon as you step into our Newport Beach office, our welcoming staff will carefully listen to your concerns and guide you through your treatment journey. The board-certified plastic surgeons at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery will be happy to discuss your cosmetic goals, review the pros and cons of the treatment you are considering, and create a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome for you. 

To learn more about gynecomastia and the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.

Request a Consultation
Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

Hear What Our Patients
Have to Say…

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

View More Testimonials

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

View More Testimonials

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

Hear What Our Patients
Have to Say…

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

View More Testimonials

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Natural Results for Every Body

Become a part of BioSpa’s new loyalty program – Ageless. Take control of your appearance and show off your youthful and empowered self with year-long savings on your favorite treatments and products.

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