Male Breast Reduction – Reduction Mammaplasty
Men who have excess fat or glandular tissue (or a combination of both) in their chest area may feel self-conscious or embarrassed. The cause of gynecomastia is unknown, but it is common among teens, and usually subsides with puberty. There are other medical problems that may cause gynecomastia such as hormonal imbalance, side effects from herbal remedies, or medications, among others. If the excess fat is due to obesity, it is best to reduce the size as much as possible through diet and exercise.
Introduction
A cosmetic surgeon can help men reduce the appearance of enlarged chests with surgery. If the issue is isolated to fat, liposuction alone may be enough to achieve the desired results. However, in some cases, the breast tissue, which is more dense than fat, can be surgically removed. The location of the incision will vary but may include the areola, under the breast, or at the armpit.
Who Is a Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
- A man who is unhappy with fatty, breast-like appearance of his chest.
- A man who is in relatively good health
- A man who is at a stable weight, and has lost as much excess weight as possible
Who Is Not a Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
- A man who wishes to use gynecomastia surgery to reduce his weight
- A man who is in poor physical condition, or is taking medication or recreational drugs that may interfere with healing
GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY Procedure
- After gynecomastia surgery, a man will have a normally appearing chest, and should be able to remove his shirt without shame or embarrassment. These results are permanent.
- Anesthesia, either general or local, is administered.
- An incision is made at the areola, or below the breast, or from the armpit, depending on the extent of correction needed, whether fat or tissue will be removed, and the preference of the cosmetic surgeon.
- If breast tissue will be removed, it will be excised through the incision.
- If liposuction will be used, the cannula will be inserted into the incision to remove excess fat.
- After the reduction is complete, the incision will be closed with sutures.
- The area will be dressed accordingly.
- It is very important that you follow your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions carefully. You may feel bruising and redness in the area of the incisions for several days.
- Drains may be placed at the incision temporarily.
Notes
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
Are you considering Gynecomastia Surgery? Visit our Find a Surgeon Directory to find a highly-qualified cosmetic surgeon near you.
Reviewed by Victoria Karlinsky, MD, FACS, a board-certified general, cosmetic, and facial cosmetic surgeon who practices at New Look New Life Cosmetic Surgical Arts in New York.