When people think about cosmetic surgery, they often think of procedures aimed at women. But for thousands of men across New Jersey, one condition quietly affects how they look and feel every day.
Gynecomastia, or enlarged male breast tissue, can lead to years of discomfort, frustration, and self-consciousness.
Enter the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, a specialized clinic in North Jersey that focuses on treating this issue. It is led by Dr. Paul Rosenberg, a board-certified plastic surgeon who saw a need and decided to fill it.
We spoke with him about why he opened the center, what he has learned during its first year, and what men across the region should know.
What inspired you to open the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center?
For a long time, I was seeing male patients come in quietly asking about gynecomastia treatment. Many of them waited years to ask the question. Others assumed they were the only ones dealing with it. The need for a dedicated space became very clear.
This condition deserves focused care, handled by a team that understands both the physical and emotional sides. That is why we opened the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center. It gives men a private, supportive environment to get answers and feel confident about seeking treatment.
How would you describe the first year since opening?
It has been truly rewarding. We have helped teenagers, college students, professionals, and older adults. The diversity of patients has been eye-opening. Gynecomastia does not discriminate by age or background.
Some men have struggled with this since puberty. Others developed it later in life. What stands out is how emotional the transformation can be. It is not just about changing appearance. It is about restoring confidence, posture, and peace of mind.
Watching patients walk in with uncertainty and leave with a sense of relief is something I will never take for granted.
What kinds of patients are you seeing?
We are seeing a wide mix. Some are young men in high school or college. They are active and healthy but uncomfortable removing their shirts around others. Others are middle-aged and have spent years hiding under layers or avoiding certain activities.
We also see older men who have developed gynecomastia due to hormonal shifts or certain medications. Each case is different, but the goal is the same. They want to feel comfortable in their own bodies again. That is something everyone deserves.
What is the biggest misconception about gynecomastia?
The biggest misunderstanding is that it is just fat and can be fixed with weight loss. In reality, true gynecomastia is often caused by glandular breast tissue, which does not go away with exercise or diet.
This leads to years of frustration. Men work hard to improve their health but feel defeated because their chest never changes. Once we explain the difference, they feel empowered. Understanding the condition is often the first step toward solving it.
Why did you build a surgical center onsite?
Privacy, safety, and convenience were the reasons. Having a fully accredited surgical facility within our practice means patients can have their consultation, procedure, and follow-up all in one familiar place.
This setup helps reduce stress. Patients are treated by the same team throughout. They do not need to travel to a hospital or navigate a separate surgical center. It also meets the highest standards for cleanliness and emergency readiness.
The feedback we get about this is overwhelmingly positive. Patients feel more comfortable and supported from start to finish.
What can a patient expect from the consultation?
The consultation is about education and comfort. We begin by asking about the patient’s concerns, medical history, and goals. Then I perform a physical exam to determine what kind of tissue is involved.
After that, we talk about treatment options, what the procedure involves, and what kind of results they can expect. Every plan is customized.
The consultation is completely free. We do this to make the first step easier. There is no pressure. Many men leave feeling better just knowing they are not alone and that real solutions exist.
How long does the process take from consult to recovery?
Most patients are able to schedule surgery within a few weeks of their consultation. The procedure itself usually takes a couple of hours, and patients go home the same day.
Recovery is relatively quick. Many men return to work within five to seven days, depending on their job. Light exercise can resume after two weeks, with full activity typically allowed after four to six weeks.
Swelling and minor bruising improve steadily, and the final results are usually visible within two to three months. We guide patients through each step so they always know what to expect.
What have you learned over the past year?
I have learned just how meaningful this kind of care can be. It is one thing to improve someone’s appearance. It is another to help them feel confident for the first time in years.
Gynecomastia is not always easy to talk about. But once patients realize they are in a safe, supportive place, they begin to open up. That trust is something we work hard to earn and protect.
I have also learned that focusing on this condition allows us to provide better, more consistent outcomes. Specialization really does make a difference.
What do you wish more people knew about gynecomastia?
I wish more men knew that this is common and that it is not their fault. It can be caused by genetics, hormones, medication, or other factors beyond their control.
I also wish they knew that treatment is safe, effective, and more straightforward than they think. There is no reason to continue hiding under loose clothes or avoiding social situations.
If gynecomastia is affecting your quality of life, even in small ways, it is worth learning your options. Just starting the conversation can change everything.
Is this only for patients in northern New Jersey?
No, we see patients from all over New Jersey and beyond. Since our process is streamlined and everything is done in one place, it is easy for people to come from farther away.
We have had patients travel from South Jersey, New York City, Long Island, and even Pennsylvania. They come because they want a specialist. They want privacy.
Wherever you are located, we do our best to make the experience smooth and respectful.
How does your team support patients throughout the process?
Support starts with the first contact. Whether someone calls or sends a message, they are greeted by staff who are warm, professional, and discreet. That level of care continues through surgery and recovery.
We walk patients through every step, from how to prepare for surgery to what to expect during healing. We are available to answer questions and adjust instructions as needed.
Patients often say they feel truly cared for, not just operated on. That is a point of pride for our team. We treat every patient like a person, not a case number.
What is your message to someone who has been struggling?
This is a common and very treatable condition. If you have been feeling self-conscious or frustrated, it is okay to talk about it.
Taking the first step does not mean you have to commit to surgery. It just means you are exploring your options and taking your concerns seriously. That is a powerful move.
We are here to listen. We are here to help.
Closing Thoughts
The New Jersey Gynecomastia Center is more than a surgical practice. It is a place where men from all over the region can find clarity, comfort, and expert care.
With free consultations, a private surgical facility onsite, and a team that truly understands the emotional and physical sides of this condition, Dr. Rosenberg and his staff are changing lives one patient at a time.
To learn more or book a private consultation, visit the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center website.