Gynecomastia Surgery Pittsburgh

My philosophy for gynecomastia surgery.

I will perform your surgery to get you the best possible result; however, I err on being conservative when removing tissue. The answer is very simple. If a little breast tissue or asymmetry remains, then a minor revision under local anesthesia in the surgery center is usually all that is required to get the final ideal result desired by both you and me. If however, too much tissue is either suctioned or excised and there are contouring irregularities, tethering of scars or deformities, then the solution to these issues becomes more complicated. Sometimes contour irregularities on the skin from overly aggressive suctioning cannot be completely corrected. When this occurs, correction requires putting fat back into these irregularities. My goal is to give you the results that are ideal, symmetric and natural with scars that are so well healed you can barely see them. This is what we will both strive to achieve. I will work with you to get the result you are seeking. If you’re looking for gynecomastia surgery Pittsburgh clients can count on, please feel free to contact our office with any questions you may have.

What are some of the most common benefits of gynecomastia (male breast reduction surgery)?

This procedure can improve the appearance of the chest where diet and exercise have failed. After the breast reduction surgery men enjoy a flatter, more masculine chest. As with all surgeries, outcome varies from patient to patient, depending on the initial size of the breasts, the amount of tissue removed and the individual. The improvements are long lasting to permanent. However, weight gain or use of certain drugs could result in a recurrence. Most men that I have treated are very happy with the results and continue to enjoy the benefits of their surgery.

How long does the gynecomastia surgery take?

Generally, the procedure takes 1-2 hours.

What is the recovery time off?

The type of work you perform usually dictates how long you need to remain off work. Typically 4-6 days is necessary. More physical work usually 7-14 days. Most patients comment that the surgery was no where near as painful or uncomfortable as they thought it would be. However, you will have a prescription for a pain medication strong enough to relieve your post-operative discomfort.

Always remember that a slow, progressive return to normal is optimal for proper healing and pain control. Most patients can resume driving within a few days following their procedure.

You should avoid exposing operated area(s) to the sun for at least 6 months to prevent altering skin pigmentation. In all, recovery time and privacy varies from person to person.

Will my nipples feel differently after gyecomastia surgery?

Some go back to normal within a few weeks and other cases it may take a few months. Time and patience is the only prescription for improving the sensation in the nipple-areola region.

What is the cost?

Although I, and most other fully trained board certified plastic surgeons, do not quote prices before a proper consultation, I can give you a general idea of the costs. The surgical fee ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 and the total package cost ranges from $3,400 to $5,000 (in the more complicated and longer cases) this includes surgical fee, anesthesia fee, operating room and recovery facility fee, compression vests, bruising cream and all postoperative care.

When can I resume exercise?

A minimum of four to seven weeks so that your body can heal properly and swelling is reduced. Monitoring your swelling is necessary in order to decrease the instances of post-op complications. When it comes to gynecomastia surgery, Pittsburgh patients should not rush back into an exercise routine, as hard as it may be. After a full recovery your body will be ready to resume your previous level of fitness activity.

How long do I wear the compression garment?

Doctor Heil will put you in a compression garment immediately after surgery. This garment should be worn for at least 6 weeks to help decrease swelling and aid in contouring the chest. It is extremely important for you to follow the post operative instructions and wear your compression garment.

Does insurance cover gynecomastia surgery?

Insurance rarely covers gynecomastia surgery in adults. Some insurance companies will pay for breast reduction if it is considered medically necessary. However, be aware that they may require specific requirements such as a letter from us, a referral from your primary care doctor, and/or photos or other documentation. We recommend that you found out what your insurance company requires.

Is there scarring?

A small incision will be placed around the areola, approximately one inch in length. The liposuction incision is very small and is placed in the underarm or the chest. The incision will diminish over time and will fade so that it is undetectable.

Will I ever need this surgery again?

During your procedure, tissue will altered to achieve a different shape and contour. There are many factors that our outside the skill of the plastic surgeon. For instance, there can be pre-existing factors that effect wound healing, both breast may not heal identically, your compliance to post-operative instructions are the most common reasons to have a revision procedure. When you choose to have a gynecomastia surgery, Pittsburgh patients, it’s best to be fully educated beforehand so you know the results.

Will the gynecomastia come back?

This procedure can improve the appearance of the chest in cases where diet and exercise have failed. The results of the procedure are significant. During gynecomastia surgery the glandular tissue is removed, however, if you take steroids or other drugs, this may enlarge your breasts. In most cases, I surgically excise the gland and fatty tissue in order to get the most effective outcome. Laser Liposuction is may also be used to aid in tightening the skin for further success. Most men who have had surgery for gynecomastia have been very satisfied with the results.

What type of anesthesia is utilized during my case?

Our Board Certified Anesthesiologists have extensive experience in outpatient surgery and anesthesia. They will determine what method of anesthesia is best suited for your case. Pre-operative clearance may be necessary in some cases.

Will I have to stay overnight?

No, Gynecomastia surgery is an outpatient procedure. You will arrive in the morning and will go home in the early evening. Recovery time will be a few hours. We require that you have someone drive you home and recommend someone stay with you the first evening. We will not discharge you from our surgery center unless you have a driver to take you home.

Do I need to lose weight before I have the procedure?

No, your weight may be a concern of yours, but it will not affect the surgery. However, proper exercise and maintaining a good diet is always advised for maintaining your result.

How old do I need to be?

Age is not a factor; however, you should be in good health. Young adolescents and adults can be candidates for surgery. We will evaluate your case carefully. I have performed gynecomastia on boys as young as 15 and old has 65.

Can other procedures such as liposuction be performed at the same time?

Multiple procedures performed such as liposuction of the hips, abdomen and waist are commonly performed.

How painful is the procedure?

You will receive pain medication to ease your discomfort. Most men, comment that the pain is minor or moderate in nature and severity. Most men resume their normal activity within 4-6 weeks.

What can I expect my chest to look like when my garment is removed?

There is some slight bruising and swelling, however, you will be taking Arnica prior to your procedure, this will help in decreasing some of the swelling. The incision areas may have some slight blood, however, this is very minor. I can assure you the minor side effects largely out way the outcome of seeing your chest flatter and more contoured. Your healing will take patience and time. You will see your breast evolve into the desired shape and size by allowing your body to heal and following the post-operative instructions.

Does it really take 4 to 6 months to see the final result?

Yes. Healing from surgery can take up to 2 years to complete. We will be assessing your progress every step of the way. Each month, you will see improvement in the softness of the area and the scar will soften and lighten in time. If revisions need to be performed we will assess this within 4-6 months.