Male Breast Reduction
Male breast reduction surgery is the most effective treatment for correcting gynecomastia, a medical condition characterized by overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men. Gynecomastia has been linked to a range of causes, including genetics, hormonal imbalance, obesity, steroid use, impaired liver function and health-related issues. While it is not dangerous or painful, excess breast tissue can cause emotional distress and impair your self-confidence. Weight loss through diet and exercise can help reduce the appearance of male breasts in some cases. When natural methods prove insufficient, breast reduction surgery yields the most dramatic and permanent results for men struggling with gynecomastia.
Who should consider male breast reduction surgery?
Gynecomastia does not have to diminish your quality of life. It may be time to consider male breast reduction surgery if:
- You have excess glandular tissue, fat and/or skin
- Weight from excess tissue is causing your breasts to sag or your areolas to stretch
- You feel self-conscious about the look of your chest
- You are uncomfortable showing your upper body in public
- You find yourself avoiding certain activities
- You are frustrated by limited clothing options
- Weight loss alone is not enough to correct your enlarged breasts
What happens during male breast reduction surgery?
Two techniques are available for male breast reduction surgery. The appropriate technique for your specific procedure will depend on the underlying cause of your gynecomastia.
Tissue Excision Technique — The excision technique is typically recommended when glandular breast tissue and excess skin must be removed to achieve optimal results. This approach also allows the surgeon to reduce the size of the areola and reposition the nipple to a more naturally masculine location. The incision pattern your surgeon chooses will depend on your anatomy and the extent of surgery needed to achieve your desired outcome.
Liposuction Technique — Liposuction can effectively treat enlarged male breasts when excess fatty tissue is the primary cause of gynecomastia. This is a less invasive method that requires a series of smaller incisions, but it is unlikely to be appropriate for more severe cases of gynecomastia. Sometimes a combination of excision and liposuction is recommended to remove both fat and glandular tissue.
What can I expect during recovery?
Every patient’s experience is unique, but recovery from male breast reduction surgery is generally well tolerated. It’s normal to experience some soreness and swelling. You may be instructed to wear a compression garment to help minimize swelling and support the healing tissues. Some patients experience a loss of sensation in the treated areas; this is usually temporary and should gradually resolve over the months following your procedure. Many men return to work within one week after breast reduction, though vigorous exercise should be avoided until more time has passed. Carefully follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions to ensure a healthy recovery and achieve the best results possible.
What results can male breast reduction achieve?
Male breast reduction can effectively treat gynecomastia and restore a flatter, firmer, more defined contour to the chest. It is the most effective treatment currently available for gynecomastia. Results from the procedure are immediately visible and are long-lasting provided you do not gain a significant amount of weight. Benefits of male breast reduction include:
- Improved appearance of the chest
- More proportionate upper body
- Confidence showing the torso in public (gym, beach, etc.)
- A wider range of options when dressing or shopping for clothing
- Heightened confidence and self-esteem
What procedures complement male breast reduction?
Some men opt to combine breast reduction surgery with liposuction on other areas of the upper body. Liposuction can remove pockets of fat from the abdomen, flanks, chest and/or back for additional torso definition.
Is male breast reduction right for me?
Though not often discussed, excess breast tissue is a common problem that leads many men to feel self-conscious and embarrassed about their bodies. If the appearance of your chest is causing insecurity and you have exhausted the benefits of diet and exercise, male breast reduction surgery can help you achieve a smaller, more sculpted and more masculine torso. Ideal candidates for male breast reduction are men whose bodies are fully developed, who do not smoke, who maintain a healthy and stable weight, who have realistic expectations and who are motivated to make a positive change. Contact the Celestial Institute of Plastic Surgery at 734-844-5700 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Bazzi and his staff look forward to helping you decide whether male breast reduction is right for you.
