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Schedule A ConsultationIf you have gynecomastia, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually six distinct types of gynecomastia. Dr. Joseph Cruise was the first plastic surgeon to identify and classify these varying types as well as the best techniques to treat each one. Through specialized gynecomastia surgery, Dr. Cruise can effectively create a flatter, more masculine-looking chest.
Let’s take a look at type 2 gynecomastia.
What is Type 2 Gynecomastia?
Type 2 gynecomastia is a little bit more severe than “puffy nipple” gynecomastia (Type 1) and is defined by a slightly rounded chest contour. Patients with this type of gynecomastia will have some excess breast tissue that extends over their pectoral muscle border and a rounded chest fold. However, their nipples will remain at or above the border, and the skin remains tight. The most common demographic for this type of gynecomastia is teens or young men from ages 16-35 with good skin quality. If a patient has experienced significant weight gain or loss, the skin quality may be less than ideal, which could push them into a Type 3 category.
Type 2 gynecomastia is caused by excess breast tissue located around and below the nipples. This tissue will take a rounded shape, mimicking the appearance of female breasts. Because the skin remains tight, it is common for this shape to appear as well-defined pectoral muscles at first glance. However, the overall contour is much more rounded. As skin loses collagen with age, these patients will see their gynecomastia progress and appear more pronounced over time. The typical Type 2 patient is also relatively fit, meaning that excess fat is not a concern.
Many patients facing Type 2 gynecomastia are relieved to learn that only small incisions are needed. Dr. Cruise performs the procedure by making a small, crescent-shaped incision in the margin of the areola where it meets the chest skin. He then removes the breast tissue through this incision which creates a flatter more masculine appearance. Type 2 gynecomastia is almost always performed in-office under local anesthesia. General anesthesia is always an option for those who prefer it. Recovery can be completed relatively quickly, with most patients ready to return to work within 3-5 days. Active patients can return to all physical activity around 4-6 weeks post-surgery. Scarring is minimal and results are permanent.
To learn more about Type 2 gynecomastia, what type of gynecomastia you may have, and your best treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cruise. Newport Beach, CA area patients can call our office at (949) 644-4808 or contact us online to set up in-person consultations. For out-of-town or busier patients, virtual “fast track” consultations are also available.
Dr. Joseph Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Regarded as one of the top gynecomastia surgeons in the world, Dr. Cruise has gynecomastia-specific content that can be found at lagynecomastia.org. Dr. Cruise has dedicated his career to cosmetic surgery but has also had extensive training in General Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Joseph Cruise is also a member of the Rhinoplasty Society as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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