While female breast reduction is not uncommon, many men with enlarged breasts don’t even know they too can have surgery to correct the problem. They simply avoid going to the Shore or other situations where they have to take their shirts off, which can affect a man’s self-esteem. Dr. Hetzler performs many of these procedures to correct gynecomastia, and return self-confidence.
Gynecomastia, commonly known as abnormal male breast enlargement, is frequently associated with teenage boys. This is largely due to hormonal shifts around this period, as well as excess body weight gained throughout childhood. But when the hormones stop rampaging after puberty, this type of gynecomastia usually goes away.
Recently, the procedure has received more attention. Patients who used to think their enlarged breasts were simply a part of putting on a little weight or simply aging now look into surgical revision. Older patients in their 50s now consider the procedure. Dr. Hetzler is asked if there is a top age limit for male breast reduction? The short answer is — it depends on.
There is no specific age limit in reducing the appearance of enlarged male breasts via surgery. Older men can still go through the procedure as long as they’re healthy and have no existing health issues that could potentially increase the risk of complications from anesthesia and the surgery itself.
Poor skin laxity in older men can also be a challenge for Dr. Hetzler when performing the male breast reduction. A thorough assessment of skin laxity will be done during your personal consultation. On the other hand, the maturity that comes with age is an advantage as it provides older patients a more realistic view of the surgery. So, know that age alone is NOT a deciding factor in whether or not male breast reduction surgery would be effective.
A quick look at the procedure
Male breast reduction surgery with Dr. Hetzler is relatively fast. Tumescent anesthesia is used to lessen the pain and discomfort during and after surgery. First, liposuction via tiny incisions is performed to remove excess fat. Excess breast glands may be removed through a tiny incision made beneath the areola (the dark portion of nipples). The procedure can take from two to three hours with recovery lasting a week or two.
A personal consultation with Dr. Hetzler will answer your questions about the possibilities of gynecomastia correction surgery. Call us at 732-219-0447 — there’s no reason to miss out on another summer at the Shore.
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