Male Breast Reduction

What is Gynecomastia?

male breast reduction

Gynecomastia is enlargement of the male breast. Men and boys experience gynecomastia (breast enlargement) at various ages. Pseudogynecomastia is breast enlargement due to fatty deposits. True gynecomastia involves enlargement of the breast gland itself. The combination of both is the most common presentation. Unless severe, mild gynecomastia in boys will resolve with weight loss and conclusion of puberty. True gynecomastia in boys and men require surgical correction. Both men and boys feel self conscious about the appearance of their enlarged breasts. This embarrassment may prevent them from participating in sports and other activities leading to further weight gain. A complete examination and evaluation of medications used is necessary as many can contribute to gynecomastia. Endocrine abnormalities as well as tumors can also cause gynecomastia. However, most gynecomastia is benign.

What is the surgical treatment?

A combination approach is the most common. Liposuction of the chest is performed followed by surgical excision of the breast tissue. Some patients have such extensive breast enlargement that skin excision may also be required. All attempts are made to keep the incisions inside the areola with very small incisions in the chest skin. When extensive skin tightening is required, incisions are kept in the natural chest creases.

What is the typical recovery?

The surgery takes about 3 hours. Mild discomfort is not uncommon. Small drains are commonly used where the breast tissue is removed. Patients are placed in a compression vest in order to keep pressure on the operated chest. This reduces the amount of bruising and swelling. It is also comfortable for the patient. The vest is worn for several weeks at which time the patient then converts to a compression undershirt. Results are evident immediately. It takes several months for the final result. Occasional touch-ups can be necessary.

Gynecomastia is a condition that impacts boys and men of all ages. Triggered by hormonal imbalances, gynecomastia is characterized by enlarged male breasts and can be difficult to cope with. Thankfully, gynecomastia excision is available as an effective treatment option for this condition.

What Is Gynecomastia Excision?

Gynecomastia excision is also called male breast reduction. It’s a cosmetic surgical procedure used to amend developed male breasts, and it involves the surgical removal of excess breast gland tissue and/or skin. Excision may also be used to relocate the nipple or decrease the size of the areola.

Liposuction may, in some circumstances, be used in combination with excision to treat gynecomastia. In liposuction, incisions are made to accommodate a thin tube called a cannula. The cannula is then moved around within the treatment area to break up fatty tissue, and vacuum suction is used to remove it.

After the skin and breast gland tissue has been removed and/or repositioned, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. A small tube may also be positioned beneath the skin to allow the treatment area to drain as it heals.

What Are the Benefits of Gynecomastia Excision?

Gynecomastia excision is a widely recommended treatment option for gynecomastia and provides the following benefits:

Improvement to the size and shape of the breasts is visible immediately after treatment.
Results from the excision will continue to improve as the treatment area heals.
Results from gynecomastia excision are long-lasting and usually permanent.
Your surgeon will tailor your treatment plan according to your unique goals and needs.

Gynecomastia excision is a reliable, lasting treatment option for boys and men suffering from gynecomastia. Contact us today to learn more about gynecomastia excision.