At the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, many of our patients say the same thing once they’ve recovered: “I wish I had done this sooner.” But we understand that making the decision to move forward with surgery takes time and plenty of questions.
Today, we’re sharing a Q&A interview with a 32-year-old from Jersey City, NJ, who underwent gynecomastia surgery after years of frustration with his chest appearance. His answers cover everything from how he made the decision to what recovery was really like.
Let’s hear directly from him as he answers some of the most common questions we receive.
Why did you decide to get gynecomastia surgery?
For most of my 20s, I thought I just needed to lose weight. I worked out consistently and ate clean, but the puffiness in my chest never went away. It got to a point where I felt self-conscious no matter what I wore, especially in summer.
Eventually, I realized this wasn’t just fat. That’s when I started researching gynecomastia and learned that it’s actually a condition involving excess glandular tissue. Once I understood that, surgery started to feel like a real solution.
How long did you think about it before booking a consultation?
Honestly, a few years. I kept hoping it would go away with more exercise or supplements. But nothing worked.
I finally booked a consultation at New Jersey Gynecomastia Center after I saw a friend post about his own surgery experience. That gave me the final push I needed.
What was your consultation like?
Really straightforward. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I felt comfortable right away.
The surgeon explained everything, such as what causes gynecomastia, how the procedure works, and what kind of results I could expect based on my body type. They also did a physical exam to determine whether I had gland tissue, fat, or both.
They showed me before-and-after photos of patients with a similar build, which helped me visualize what was possible.
Were you nervous before the procedure?
A little, but not in a bad way. It was more excitement than fear.
The team walked me through every step, so by the time surgery day came around, I felt prepared. My main concern was the scar, but once I saw where the incisions would be placed (around the areola), I knew it would heal discreetly.
Can you walk us through the surgery day?
Sure. I arrived early in the morning, and everything moved smoothly. They marked my chest, reviewed the plan again, and then I went under anesthesia.
The whole thing took under two hours. I woke up groggy but with no real pain. Just a feeling of tightness across my chest. I was home later that afternoon.
What was recovery like in the first few days?
The first 48 hours were the most restrictive. I was sore and had to move slowly, but I didn’t need heavy pain meds. Tylenol was enough for me.
I wore a compression vest all day and night. It helped with swelling and gave me a sense of security, especially when moving around.
By day three, I felt good enough to take short walks. I just couldn’t lift anything or raise my arms much yet.
When did you start to see results?
Immediately, even with swelling. I could tell my chest was flatter the first time I looked in the mirror.
By week two, the swelling had gone down enough that I could see the full contour. It was a huge boost in confidence.
How long did it take to feel “normal” again?
About three weeks. I was back to work (remote) within five days, but it took about three weeks before I was sleeping comfortably and moving around without being extra cautious.
At six weeks, I got cleared for light upper body workouts. By eight weeks, I was back to full training.
What has changed for you since the surgery?
So much. I wear whatever I want now, like just one T-shirt, no layering. I go to the beach without worrying. I don’t constantly adjust my shirt or avoid certain angles in pictures.
Most of all, I feel like I finally look how I’m supposed to look. My body matches the work I’ve been putting in for years.
What do you wish you had known earlier?
A few things:
- You don’t have to live with this: I thought it was something I just had to accept. It’s not.
- Surgery is less intense than you imagine: It’s outpatient, and recovery is manageable if you follow instructions.
- You’re not alone: So many guys deal with this. Once I opened up, I found out some of my friends had considered surgery too.
- Results are permanent: This isn’t a temporary fix. Once the gland is gone, it doesn’t come back.
I wish I had talked to a specialist sooner instead of trying to solve it on my own.
What advice would you give someone considering gynecomastia surgery?
Don’t wait as long as I did. If your chest is something you think about every day such as if it affects your confidence, how you dress, or how you live, it’s worth addressing.
Start with a consultation. You don’t have to commit to anything right away. Just get your questions answered and go from there.
Thinking About Gynecomastia Surgery in New Jersey?
At New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, we know how personal this decision is. We’re here to provide clear answers, expert care, and natural-looking results.
If you’re considering surgery, schedule a gynecomastia consultation today. Taking the first step can change how you feel in your body every single day.
