Traditionally, plastic surgery has been associated with women more than men. In the past, you would rarely find men taking advantage of aesthetic medicine due to the stigma or taboo of “getting work done.” However, there has been a transformation in plastic surgery over the last few years as more men have embraced cosmetic surgery and the confidence boost it can provide.
Recently, cosmetic surgery has become more dynamic due to the implementation of cosmetic procedures designed for both men and women. Most procedures are highly customizable and can create very natural-looking outcomes.
For men looking to achieve their ideal body shape, body contouring surgery can be a great approach to achieving their desired look. Male body contouring procedures can help reduce stubborn fat deposits and improve muscular definition. Common areas of concern for men include the ‘dad body’ and ‘beer belly’ that often come with age and an increase in body mass. Fortunately, there are a variety of body contouring options available to address these issues and help men sculpt their bodies into the shape they desire. Whether it is reducing excess fat tissue or creating more muscular definition, male body contouring can provide results that allow men to feel confident in their appearance.
Body sculpting procedures are some of the most popular cosmetic options for men. Here are 3 of the top surgeries men request.
1. Breast Reduction
Many men develop enlarged breasts, also known as gynecomastia, at some point during their lives. Gynecomastia is caused by the excess
production of estrogen hormones that surpasses the production of testosterone. Enlargement in male breast tissues can affect one or both breasts.
A number of factors, such as obesity, inappropriate nutrition, kidney failure, liver disease, certain medications, and puberty, can cause enlarged breasts. Gynecomastia affects more than 50% of all men globally at some point in their development but is often temporary.
Recently, male breast reduction has become more popular in the United States for men with persistent gynecomastia. If you cannot reverse the condition through lifestyle changes or medical therapy, a male breast reduction procedure is usually the best option.
Male Breast Reduction Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery combines liposuction and the surgical elimination of excess fat, glandular tissue, and excess skin from the chest. An incision is made around the nipples so that any scarring will nearly disappear after the surgery.
Local or general anesthesia is used, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Male breast reduction surgery usually takes around two to three hours when it is performed under general anesthesia.
A patient who has had male breast reduction surgery is not supposed to resume routine activities until two weeks after the surgery, longer for some strenuous activities like lifting weights. Costs vary, but financing is typically available.
Benefits of Male Breast Reduction
- A more masculine chest appearance
- Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem
- Reduced chafing, skin irritation, and rashes
- Increased comfort during physical activities
- Back pain relief
Risks Associated with Male Breast Reduction
The decision to have gynecomastia surgery is exceptionally personal, and patients must accept both the benefits and risks. Some of the rare risks associated with male breast reduction include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Thrombosis and pulmonary complications
- Infection
- Loss of chest sensitivity
- Prolonged swelling
If you have excess breast tissue and are considering having breast reduction, visit The Houston Surgery Center and Dr. Vitenas will be happy to discuss the procedure with you.
2. Liposuction
Male Liposuction is a popular body contouring procedure for men who want to achieve a more sculpted physique. During the procedure, excess fat and loose skin are removed from the target areas, leaving patients with a slimmer silhouette. The technique involves using a cannula that is inserted into the fatty tissue to suction out the excess fat and adipose tissue. This method can be used to remove unwanted fat cells in multiple body areas like the abdomen, chest, chin, neck, arms, back, and thighs.
The traditional liposuction technique uses general anesthesia and large incisions, which can cause more trauma to your body than necessary. However, modern technology has advanced this centuries-old procedure making it much less invasive, with less scarring and faster recovery times. The Vaser liposuction technique uses ultrasound energy to gently break apart the fatty tissue for easier removal without affecting any of the surrounding tissues or organs. This method is particularly useful for those patients that have more stubborn fat accumulation or want to reduce their recovery time following surgery.
Male liposuction surgery offers numerous benefits for those looking for ways to improve their body shape by removing stubborn fatty tissue without having to undergo complex surgeries with long recovery times. Patients should consult with an experienced plastic surgeon beforehand if they wish to learn more about this procedure so they can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for them or not.
Liposuction Procedure
The liposuction procedure for men is different than it is for women since it most often concentrates on the lower abdomen, flanks, and upper arms. It is a versatile procedure that involves making a small cut in the skin to insert a cannula (suction tube). The tube is inserted into the innermost fat layers, cells are broken up and vacuumed out of the body, and the incision is closed with a stitch or dissolvable suture. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia.
Male liposuction surgery takes around two to three hours. Patients who undergo the operation can resume most of their routine activities after one week. However, patients are not supposed to engage in strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, exercise, or jogging for several more weeks.
The average cost of male liposuction surgery is between $6500 and $8500, but charges may vary depending on the individual procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the region. Insurance does not cover this procedure since it is categorized as cosmetic surgery.
Benefits of Male Liposuction Surgery
- Boost self-confidence and esteem
- A more masculine body contour
- Removes stubborn, unresponsive fat
- Faster treatment and recovery
Risks Associated with Male Liposuction Surgery
- Damage to the inner body structures such as nerves and blood vessels
- Loss of skin sensitivity
- Bruising and infections
- Persistent swelling
- Anesthesia complications
Your plastic surgeon should discuss the above risks, plus others, before you decide to undergo liposuction. The procedure is best for men who are at or near their goal weight and have maintained that weight for at least several months.
3. Male Body Implants
Male body implant surgery is becoming increasingly popular among men who seek to achieve an ideal physique. This procedure involves the use of implants to increase the size and projection of muscle groups such as the pectoral muscles, calves, oblique muscles, latissimus muscles, and other areas where fat has been converted to muscle.
Our anatomy, genetics, and lifestyle contribute greatly to how our body structures appear. Even with exercise, dieting, and weight lifting, some men find it extremely difficult to build their muscles as their testosterone levels go down. Implants can be extremely helpful in this situation.
The implant surgery typically requires 2 – 3 weeks for healing and recovery and can be combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen for optimal results. With this type of surgery, men can improve their muscle size while maintaining a natural-looking physique.
Male Body Implants Procedure
A male body implant is surgically placed while the patient is under anesthesia. The surgery involves making small cuts in hidden locations, such as the armpit, knee fold, or buttock, to insert the implants.
Implants fixed in the chest and buttock area are usually located below the natural pectoral or gluteal muscle. Implants fixed in the calf area are generally placed above the muscle under the calf fascia.
After the procedure, patients should not participate in strenuous activities like weightlifting for about two months. However, you can engage in light activities such as walking two weeks after recovery. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort during the recovery process, which is normally managed by painkillers.
Benefits of Male Body Implants
- Offers natural-looking, permanent results
- Short healing and recovery process
- Low bleeding risk
- Boosted self-confidence
Risks of Male Body Implants
- Infection
- Implant shifting or rejection
- Prolonged bruising or swelling
Take Control of your Body Appearance
Men can and should take control of their confidence and self-esteem. If you are contemplating any cosmetic procedures, consider a consultation with Dr. Paul Vitenas, one of the most experienced board-certified plastic surgeons in Texas. He can help you find the treatment plan that will help you reach your goals. Call 281-484-0088 to make an appointment.
