Cosmetic surgery for men is not a commonly discussed topic. Often, this is because men are not comfortable openly addressing their desire to look and feel better than they currently do. However, plastic surgery can help many men achieve their desired body image and increase their self-esteem. When men do inquire about cosmetic surgery, there are three common procedures. Those three procedures are liposuction, rhinoplasty, and gynecomastia surgery. If you are considering one of these procedures, it can help to learn a little more about it before speaking to your doctor.
Procedure #1: Liposuction for Men
Out of all of the available cosmetic procedures for men, liposuction is the most common. These men are looking to remove the extra fat from the midsection. For most men, this extra fat builds up over a long period of time. This build-up can actually be due to hormonal changes that occur as you age. They cause this area of the body to become very dense and therefore, more resistant to diet and exercise.
A good candidate for liposuction:
- Is within 30% of their ideal weight
- Has firm, elastic skin
- Has good muscle tone
- Is generally healthy with no life-threatening or long-term medical conditions
During liposuction, the surgeon will make a small incision and then insert the cannula tube. This is the device that removes the excess fat from the target treatment area. The surgeon skillfully guides the cannula tube and suctions the fat from the designated areas. He or she is also shaping and contouring the body while the fat is being removed. Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, which means you will be able to go home on the day of the surgery. The doctor will administer sedation through anesthesia.
Typically, the recovery period is fairly short. Patients are back to work in three to five days. Men can expect to get back in the gym four to six weeks after surgery.
Procedure #2: Rhinoplasty for Men
Rhinoplasty is the second most common cosmetic procedure requested by men. Whether looking to fix a deviated septum or simply seeking to change the symmetry of the face, men can benefit from a nose job. For example, if you are a man looking to treat any of the following, rhinoplasty might be a good choice for you.
- General nose size
- Nose width at the bridge
- Size, shape, and position of the nostrils
- Nose profile with visible humps or depressions on the bridge
- Nasal tip that is large or bulbous, drooping, upturned, or hooked
- Nasal asymmetry
Good candidates for a rhinoplasty are looking to fix any of the above and are physically healthy. A good candidate also does not smoke and is generally physically healthy with no long-term medical condition that can stunt the recovery process.
Your surgeon will administer anesthesia before the procedure for your comfort. Depending on the desired outcome of the surgery, several different approaches can be taken by the surgeon. Generally speaking, however, your surgeon will make an incision, reshape the nose by moving bone and cartilage and finally, redrape the skin and close the incision.
Recovery from a rhinoplasty varies. Immediately following the procedure, there will be swelling and some scarring. However, you should be fit to return to work after about a week. Listen to your doctor’s recommendations for returning to the gym and other more strenuous activities.
Procedure #3: Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery is also known as male breast reduction surgery. Good candidates for gynecomastia surgery include the following.
- Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments
- Healthy individuals without life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions that can impair healing
- Nonsmokers and non-drug users
- Physically healthy men
- Men of relatively normal weight
- Men whose breast development has stabilized
For men who feel that their breast size is too large, this procedure can change their lives and boost self-esteem. The procedure itself requires anesthesia for your comfort. Your surgeon will then make an incision, and use excision or liposuction to achieve the desired results. Sometimes, if necessary, the surgeon will use both methods together. There will be some scarring, however, results are immediate. You will notice a difference as soon as the surgery is complete.
Recovery can take up to one month. Your doctor will provide specific instructions about cleaning the incisions, draining fluids, and any necessary medications.
Dr. Anthony Berlet Performs Male Cosmetic Surgery in NJ & NYC
For over 20 years, Dr. Anthony Berlet performs cosmetic surgery for men in northern New Jersey and New York City. He uses his knowledge and expertise as a reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon to ensure the best surgery results possible for his patients, male or female. Each patient is unique and as a result, requires individual attention and care. With your desired results in mind, Dr. Berlet can help you achieve the body you have always wanted. To learn more about your cosmetic surgery options and our practice, reach out today!