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Gynecomastia in Raleigh, NC

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About Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the medical word used for breasts in men that are overly large. It is a condition that can produce a female-like chest look due to the increase of growing breast tissue. In many cases, gynecomastia is due to an underlying hormonal problem. This condition can also be the cause of certain prescription drugs and medications, steroids, weight gain, or genetics. Adolescent young men and adult men with this issue often feel self-conscious, most commonly in circumstances where the chest is exposed such as by the pool or in the gym. Raleigh, NC plastic surgeon Dr. Glenn Lyle offers surgical breast reduction for men who have gynecomastia. This surgery has a positive success rate. It is known as one of the more popular cosmetic treatments for men at Raleigh Plastic Surgery Center.

Ideal Candidates

This type of breast reduction is a procedure for men with overly sized breasts that cannot be treated with medications or diet. If you feel bothered by the size and shape of your chest, and are healthy and at a good weight, you may benefit from male breast reduction surgery by Dr. Lyle at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center. Adolescent teens may also benefit from gynecomastia surgery; however, an additional procedure may be needed later during adulthood if excess breast tissue continues to develop. During your first appointment with Dr. Lyle, he will help you plan your treatment and discuss the chances of moving forward with surgery to repair the condition.

Surgical Technique

A form of liposuction is generally used during male breast reduction surgery. While using general anesthesia, liposuction is utilized to remove excess fat tissue from the chest wall. Next, any lax skin will be carefully trimmed away to create a taut appearance, and then the nipple area and surrounding areola will be placed into a proportionate position. In most cases, this treatment strategy requires a small incision in proximity to where the glandular tissue has formed. Once the fat and loose skin have been appropriately handled, Dr. Lyle will pull together the existing skin.

What To Expect

At the conclusion of gynecomastia treatment, your chest will be supported with a medical garment to help control swelling, bleeding, and bruising. In advanced cases that utilized a more complex approach, a drainage tube may be properly positioned to assist with fluid buildup. The results following this procedure are immediately visible and most patients are extremely excited with the physical transformation. The incisions made during surgery need time to heal and scarring is usually barely seen. You can get medical clearance from Dr. Lyle to incorporate exercise and strength training, which will help accentuate the surgical results.

I am so pleased with my total experience at Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center. Thank you to all !!

C.O. Google

I have had multiple wonderful experiences with Haley, a PA at this office and she is always attentive and knowledgeable! I will keep coming to her for all my aesthetic needs!

H.B. Google

Stephanie is fantastic! Natural looking results and very professional.

J.H. Google

I had a red light facial with Kat today and it exceeded my expectations! From start to finish, it was amazing. She even massages yours hands and scalp while you have the mask on.After I saw Stephanie for tox and lips and she nailed it!

C.B. Google

I had a red light facial with Kat today and it exceeded my expectations! From start to finish, it was amazing. She even massages yours hands and scalp while you have the mask on.After I saw Stephanie for tox and lips and she nailed it!

B.B. Google

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Restore your Masculine Chest

If you suffer from the appearance of gynecomastia, we welcome you to call our office to schedule a one-on-one private consultation with Dr. Lyle to learn more about male breast reduction surgery at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center. We have assisted so many of our male patients and have enjoyed watching them reestablish their self-esteem.

 

Gynecomastia Extra Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Everyday Life & Recovery Questions

Q: When can I take my shirt off in public after gynecomastia surgery?  

A: Most men feel comfortable going shirtless about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, once swelling fades and scars begin to settle. Dr. Lyle helps patients in Raleigh track healing so they know when they’re ready.

Q: Can I go back to weightlifting after gynecomastia surgery?  

A: You’ll need to avoid chest workouts and heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks. Dr. Lyle will clear you to return to the gym gradually based on your recovery progress. In fact, pectoral muscle building will help the results once you are cleared.

Q: Will I need to wear a compression vest after surgery?  

A: Yes, compression garments are key to reducing swelling and helping your chest contour properly. You’ll usually wear one for at least a month- usually longer even while sleeping.

Q: Can I sleep on my stomach after male breast reduction?  

A: Not right away. Sleeping on your back with your chest elevated helps reduce swelling. You can return to your usual sleep position after Dr. Lyle says it’s safe—often after 2 to 3 weeks.

Q: When is it safe to drive again after gynecomastia surgery?  

A: Most patients can drive within a few days once they’re off pain medication and feel comfortable behind the wheel. Always check with Dr. Lyle before resuming driving.

Emotional & Confidence-Related FAQs

Q: Will gynecomastia surgery boost my self-confidence?  

A: Many men report feeling more confident in fitted clothes, at the beach, and during intimacy after surgery. Emotional benefits are a common and rewarding part of the recovery journey.

Q: How do I know this isn’t just chest fat and not gynecomastia?  

A: True gynecomastia involves glandular tissue, not just fat. Dr. Lyle can assess your chest in person and let you know if you’re a good candidate for surgery or if other options are better. As you age-breast tissue may be replaced by fat and it may be adequate to treat with Vaser liposuction alone.

Q: Will people know I had surgery?  

A: Most scars are hidden near the edge of the areola and fade over time 

Once healed, others won’t be able to tell unless you choose to share. If you have a lot of excess skin and sagging- incisions are more extensive and can be much more noticeable. Many men go one to have tattoos to cover them.

Sex, Travel, and Lifestyle FAQs

Q: When can I resume sexual activity after gynecomastia surgery?  

A: Most patients wait 3 to 4 weeks to allow healing and reduce strain on the chest. Dr. Lyle will give you the green light when it’s safe.

Q: Can I fly after surgery if I’m traveling to Raleigh for treatment?  

A: You can usually fly within a few days, but longer flights may increase swelling. Dr. Lyle recommends staying in town for your first post-op check before traveling home.

Q: Will my nipples look different after gynecomastia surgery?  

A: If your procedure includes tissue removal under the nipple, the shape may look flatter and more masculine. Dr. Lyle carefully preserves natural contours to ensure a natural result.

Less Common but Helpful Questions

Q: Can gynecomastia return after surgery?  

A: Recurrence is rare but possible if hormone levels change, medications are reintroduced, or weight is gained. Dr. Lyle will discuss long-term care to maintain your results.

Q: Is gynecomastia surgery worth it if I’m over 40 or 50?  

A: Yes. Age doesn’t disqualify you as long as you’re healthy. Many men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond in Raleigh have surgery and love their results.

Q: Can male breast reduction be combined with liposuction of the abdomen or flanks?  

A: Yes. Many men choose to combine gynecomastia surgery with liposuction or even tummy tuck to enhance overall body shape. Dr. Lyle can create a combined surgical plan if appropriate.

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Will exercise or weight loss get rid of gynecomastia without surgery?

In some cases, weight loss can reduce fat in the chest, but true gynecomastia involves excess glandular breast tissue, which does not go away with exercise or dieting alone. If the enlargement is primarily due to glandular tissue rather than fat, surgery is often the most effective option. Dr. Lyle can determine whether the fullness is caused by fat, glandular tissue, or a combination of both and recommend the best treatment approach.

What kind of scarring should I expect after male breast reduction surgery?

The incisions used for gynecomastia surgery are typically small and strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. In many cases, the incision is made around the edge of the areola, where it blends with natural pigmentation. If liposuction is also used, tiny incisions are placed in discreet areas. With proper healing and scar care, most scars fade significantly over time and become barely noticeable.

Can gynecomastia return after surgery?

While gynecomastia surgery is considered a long-term solution, recurrence is possible in rare cases, especially if the original cause — such as hormonal imbalance or steroid use — is not addressed. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following Dr. Lyle's recommendations can help preserve your results. Our team will discuss potential risk factors during your consultation and help you make a plan to maintain your outcome.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.