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Gynecomastia Surgery
Over-developed breast tissue in men is typically the result of a condition known as gynecomastia. While usually harmless to your health, this condition can be a significant source of self-esteem issues for a man. Thankfully, there is a permanent solution available through gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction. In the Detroit area, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rifai can help patients with enlarged male breast tissue.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition that results in over-developed male breasts. The appearance of enlarged breasts is typically due to a combination of excess breast and fat tissue. Gynecomastia can occur in adolescents or adults and typically develops during puberty. Some common causes of gynecomastia include:
- Hormonal imbalance, especially during puberty
- Genetic disorders
- Anabolic steroids
- Marijuana use
- Side effects of medication
In many cases, Dr. Rifai may recommend first assessing the root cause of gynecomastia, as the condition can occasionally be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. Patients should also be at a healthy weight before choosing gynecomastia surgery. During a consultation appointment, Dr. Rifai will review your health history and complete a brief visual examination to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.
What is Male Breast Reduction?
Male breast reduction is a surgical procedure in which the excess breast and fat tissues are removed to create a more masculine chest contour. This permanently resolves the appearance of gynecomastia. In a male breast reduction, excess tissues may be removed manually or through liposuction. Often, liposuction alone is sufficient in treating gynecomastia, which means that patients can enjoy reduced scarring and downtime. This can be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Rifai.
The Male Breast Reduction Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can typically be completed within one to two hours. In most cases, Dr. Rifai can complete a male breast reduction using only small and inconspicuous incisions, removing tissue through liposuction. In more advanced cases of gynecomastia, larger incisions may be necessary to remove glandular tissue and excess skin. These considerations can be discussed during a consultation appointment. Once all excess tissue has been removed and the area has been reshaped, the incisions are closed using sutures.
Meet Dr. Rifai
Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon
A talented, board-certified cosmetic surgeon with more than forty years of experience, Dr. Rifai uses only the finest equipment in our clean, state-of-the-art facility. Dr. Rifai knows that taking time to listen and learn about your expectations is essential to giving you the results you want. He will answer your questions and explain the treatment options in detail. Dr. Rifai is devoted to improving the way you look, the way you perceive yourself, and the way others see you.
Meet Dr. RifaiRecovery After Gynecomastia Surgery
After male breast reduction, patients can expect some soreness, redness, swelling, and potential bruising. Compression garments should be worn to reduce swelling and encourage proper healing. Dr. Rifai will provide specific aftercare instructions, including pain management as needed. The recovery process after gynecomastia surgery varies depending on the extent of the surgery and other factors. For most patients, about one to two weeks of downtime is required before returning to non-strenuous routines. An additional two to four weeks of rest should be followed before returning to strenuous activity such as exercise. Dr. Rifai will monitor your healing through postoperative appointments.
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Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rifai by calling Birmingham Cosmetic Surgery at (248) 723-9370.