As Memorial Day approaches, we wanted to take a moment—beyond our scalpel and sutures—to reflect on its deeper meaning and what it symbolizes for all of us.

For many, Memorial Day weekend signals the unofficial start of summer: longer days, barbecues, and time outdoors with friends and family. It is a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the sunshine. But at its heart, Memorial Day is about remembrance and gratitude.
Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day began after the Civil War as a way to honor soldiers who had died in battle. Communities across the country would gather to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, flags, and heartfelt tributes. Over time, it evolved into a national holiday, officially recognized in 1971, to honor all U.S. military personnel who gave their lives in service.

Today, we commemorate Memorial Day in many ways—parades, ceremonies, moments of silence, and personal reflections. The American flag flies at half-staff until noon, and families visit cemeteries to pay their respects. In our busy lives, it can be easy to overlook the solemnity of the day—but we believe it is important to pause and remember the extraordinary sacrifice made by so many.

As physicians, we are privileged to serve others through healing. We draw inspiration from those who served our country with courage and selflessness. On this Memorial Day, we extend our deepest respect and gratitude to all veterans and their families.

So whether you’re traveling, gathering with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, we hope you’ll take time to reflect on what this day truly represents.

Wishing you a meaningful and safe Memorial Day,

Master Sergeant Jim Marchese serving in Afghanistan, one of many of our patients who have served with honor in our Armed Services. Thank you!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your service!

As a seasoned plastic surgeon, few procedures are as gratifying as treating gynecomastia—male breast enlargement. This condition can have a profound emotional and social impact on men of all ages. Whether caused by hormonal imbalance, medications, genetics, or weight fluctuations, gynecomastia can erode confidence and limit lifestyle choices.

Fortunately, we have excellent surgical solutions, tailored to the nature of the tissue and severity of the condition.

For men with soft, fatty breast tissue and good skin tone, liposuction alone can achieve excellent contouring with minimal downtime and virtually invisible scars. When firmer glandular tissue is present, we perform a direct excision through a small incision along the edge of the areola—a discreet approach that allows precise removal of dense tissue. In more advanced cases with significant excess skin or long-standing gynecomastia, we may need to perform a skin excision and reposition the nipple as a free graft—a technique that restores a natural masculine chest shape.

Ideal candidates are healthy men who are at or near their target weight and have realistic expectations. A thorough consultation helps determine the best approach for each individual.
Recovery depends on the surgical technique but usually involves minimal discomfort, wearing a compression garment for several weeks, and avoiding strenuous activity for 3–4 weeks. Most patients return to daily routines within a few days.

Long-term results are typically permanent, especially with stable weight and hormone levels. The boost in confidence many men experience after gynecomastia surgery is both immediate and lasting.

If gynecomastia has held you back, know that there are safe, effective options available. We’re here to help you reclaim your confidence and comfort in your body.

This 23-year-old liked to swim but felt self-conscious about taking his shirt off . He is shown here before and after a gynecomastia procedure by Dr. Deborah Ekstrom, producing dramatic results with a minimally invasive procedure.

28-year-old male shown here before and a gynecomastia procedure by Drs. Deborah Ekstrom to give him this satisfying result, which gave him a major boost in confidence

Join us at our new office!