Top 5 Plastic Surgery Procedures for Men

Although men are a minority among plastic surgery patients, the number of men seeking cosmetic enhancement and rejuvenation is rising. Currently, men account for about 10% of all cosmetic surgery procedures.

What are some of the most popular plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures for men? Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S., answers.

Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)

Gynecomastia is the overdevelopment of breast tissue in men. It can occur at all ages due to various reasons such as hormonal changes, obesity, heredity, or certain drugs. In severe cases, gynecomastia may lead to breast stretching and sagging, causing significant discomfort and self-consciousness in men suffering from the condition.

Surgical breast reduction for gynecomastia usually includes liposuction, removal of excess glandular tissue, and sometimes skin excision. Treatment usually has good outcomes, and patients can return to everyday routines within 7-10 days.

Note that while male breast cancer is extremely rare, it is crucial to rule out cancer before proceeding with gynecomastia surgery.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that removes subcutaneous fat using a suction technique. The procedure involves tiny incisions that heal quickly and leave minimal scarring.

Popular liposuction areas concentrate on the upper body: abdomen, flanks, chest, and neck. Male fat is also often more difficult to remove due to an encasing of fibrous tissue. However, because male skin is thicker, post-liposuction contouring tends to be successful.

While liposuction can produce excellent results in removing fat from problematic areas, it is not a replacement for weight control through a regular diet and exercise program.

Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, otherwise known as eyelid surgery, can lift sagging or fat pockets under the eyes and help patients achieve a rejuvenated look. Even though blepharoplasty typically counts as cosmetic surgery, it may be a medically necessary procedure if sagging eyelids cause visual impairment or functional limitations.

A blepharoplasty procedure involves removing excess skin, and sometimes muscle or fat tissue, from the problematic area.  Typically, blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure that requires local anesthesia.

It is a simple, safe surgery that usually yields excellent results. The improved appearance of the upper eyelids should last at least 5-7 years, after which repeat surgery may be necessary. Lower eyelids rarely require a repeat procedure.

The recovery period after blepharoplasty may involve swelling and bruising for 1-3 weeks. Most patients are ready to resume their normal activities in 10-14 days.

BOTOX®

During a BOTOX® procedure, the patient receives injections of Clostridium botulinum toxin to areas of the face that show wrinkles, such as crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. The injection makes the surrounding muscles relax and reduces wrinkles. BOTOX® can also treat several conditions such as lazy eye, neck spasms, and excessive sweating.

It is a minimally invasive and highly popular procedure enjoying increasing favor among men. About half a million men in the U.S. opt for BOTOX® injections every year. Although the words “Botulinum toxin” may sound alarming, the procedure is proven safe under the control of an experienced doctor. After BOTOX® injections, it is important to avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.

The patient will usually see the results of BOTOX®within 1-14 days after any residual swelling or bruising is gone. In 1-2 weeks, BOTOX® will reach its maximum effect.

The results of BOTOX® aren’t permanent, and within a couple of months, wrinkles may reappear. To maintain a rejuvenated appearance, the patient will need regular injections approximately every 3-4 months.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments are among the most widely used, safe, and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures for men. They can address a wide range of aesthetic concerns, from excess hair and tattoo removal to hyperpigmentation treatment. Laser treatments are generally quick and involve little downtime or discomfort to the patient.

Because men have thicker skin than women, it is necessary to adjust energy levels accordingly during laser procedures.

Men frequently express interest in the following types of laser treatments:

1. Laser for broken blood vessels and facial redness
2. Skin resurfacing for acne scars
3. Skin resurfacing for age spots and sun damage
4. Laser hair removal, often from the chest and back areas

Post-laser skin treatment requires staying out of the sun, gentle cleansing, and sometimes cold packs for swelling or discomfort.

Men, Are You Ready to Look Like You, Only Better? Contact Palm Beach Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

Find yourself Googling “plastic surgery near me”? Dr. Fredric M. Barr is a board-certified plastic surgeon with 34 years of experience. His professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the best results have contributed to his stellar reputation among our West Palm Beach clinic patients.

If you’re considering plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures, call 561-833-4122 today for a free consultation or fill out our contact form.