If you’ve been living with gynecomastia and dealing with it by keeping your shirt on, covering up and avoiding relationships, you need to keep two things in mind: Living life covered up is not really living, and you are not alone. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, one in four men between the ages of 50 and 69 is living with gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts. You also need to know that Dr. Peterson can help. By undergoing treatment for gynecomastia, you can shed sweatshirts and feelings of self-consciousness and get back to living life to the fullest. Here is some information from Dr. Peterson that will help you optimize your treatment and ensure great results.
Know What You Need
Liposuction can help, but not in all cases. Many plastic surgeons offer liposuction as an option to reduce excess unwanted male breast tissue, but liposuction does not work for everyone. Some men have too much tissue to be liposuctioned, making surgery a better option.
Men who have experienced significant weight loss also need surgery rather than liposuction to help remove excess skin and tighten the area to make a smoother and flatter chest.
A board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in treating gynecomastia can help determine the right approach to reducing unwanted male breast tissue.
Know How to Get Ready
Before undergoing your gynecomastia procedure, it is important to eat healthily and get in shape. This will help reduce unwanted fat in the area and give you better results. We suggest eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and lean meats, reducing the amount of sugar in your diet and limiting alcohol consumption. If you smoke, you will need to quit at least two weeks before and after your procedure. Add in regular workouts, including weightlifting and cardio.
If you are undergoing treatment because of gynecomastia caused by steroid use, prescription medications or as a result of recreational drug use, you need to stop taking or using these medications before your procedure.
Know What to Expect
After surgery, expect to have some swelling and bruising in the area for at least two weeks. Depending on the approach used to treat your gynecomastia, you could have drains to remove excess fluid for a few days after your procedure. You may also need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling.
After your procedure, you may be itching to get back to the gym to define your pecs and chest further, but you will need to put off heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks.
Learn more about gynecomastia treatments by calling 785-234-9000 to schedule a consultation today.
