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Gynecomastia surgery can be a life-changing procedure for men who have excess breast tissue. If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, there are some things you should know about the procedure and how to prepare. Dr. Newman can answer any questions during a consultation, but below are some general guidelines.
How To Tell If You Have Gynecomastia
Often, gynecomastia may be mistaken for other issues with the appearance of the chest. For example, excess skin in the area, particularly around the areola, can appear similar to true gynecomastia. This is common in men who have lost a significant amount of weight or older men who face sagging skin due to the natural aging process. Similarly, patients may face excess fat in the area.
True gynecomastia is the result of excess breast tissue in the chest. Patients with true gynecomastia may also have some excess fat or loose skin which contributes to the appearance. The best way to determine whether you have true gynecomastia or another issue is to consult with a plastic surgeon, who can perform an examination of the area. Through this consultation, your plastic surgeon can recommend whether you would benefit from gynecomastia surgery or another option, such as a body lift to remove excess skin or liposuction to remove excess fat.
Choosing Your Gynecomastia Surgeon
Prior to scheduling your consultation, you should research the best plastic surgeon for you. Dr. Newman has significant experience in treating gynecomastia, and patients can review his before-and-after photos to see results of past patients. He is also board-certified, demonstrating a high standard of care and commitment to continuing education as a plastic surgeon.
Staying Healthy Before Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery patients should be at a healthy and stable weight before their surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine will help you in your recovery process after surgery. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and limit sugar or alcohol consumption. Dr. Newman may also instruct you to stop or adjust certain medications prior to your surgery.
In some cases, gynecomastia may be caused by underlying health concerns such as hormonal imbalance or thyroid issues. Dr. Newman may recommend that you address these issues prior to your surgery, and may refer you to another physician as needed. Addressing these underlying health concerns will allow you to achieve the best possible results from your surgery and is an important step for your overall health.
Preparing for Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery
Before your gynecomastia surgery, you should be informed and prepared for the recovery process. Most patients require about two weeks of downtime after their procedure. For the first 24-48 hours, you may have drains in place. Dr. Newman will also give you instructions to wear a compression vest to encourage proper healing after your surgery.
To prepare for recovery, you should arrange for someone to drive you home from your surgery and purchase any necessary materials such as easy-to-prepare meals, comfortable clothing, or entertainment for your downtime. Dr. Newman may also prescribe medications for the recovery process.
Gynecomastia Surgery in St. Petersburg, FL
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Newman by calling our St. Petersburg, Florida office at (727) 228-0622 or contacting us online.
