Male breast reduction, also known as Gynecomastia surgery, is performed to reduce the breast size in men caused by a condition called Gynecomastia. In severe cases excess breast tissue causes the breast to sag and stretch, also sometimes stretching the areola. Male breast reduction reduces and flattens breast tissue improving the chest contours. The position and size of the areola can also be corrected during the same surgery.

What are characteristics of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by overdeveloped or enlarged breasts. It can be caused by a number of factors and happen at any age. Heredity, hormones, obesity, and the use of certain drugs can all be causes. Key characteristics are: excess localized fat, excess glandular tissue development, and excess breast skin in one or both breasts.

Who is a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery?
Candidates of male breast reduction surgery should understand that while the procedure can greatly improve one’s confidence, secondary procedures may be needed should breast tissue develop again in the future. It is therefore good to have realistic expectations when considering the surgery.

Other factors that make you a good candidate
for male breast reduction surgery include:

  • If your condition cannot be corrected through the use of alternative medical treatments
  • If you are in overall good health and do not have a life threatening illness or medical condition
  • If you are a non-smoker and non-drug user
  • -If you are physically healthy and a relatively normal weight
  • If your breast development has stabilized
  • If you are negatively affected by the size of your breasts and feel that they are too large

What are the steps of male breast reduction surgery?

Step 1 – Anesthesia

Your doctor will administer medications for your comfort during the surgery. Options could be intravenous sedation and general anesthesia depending on what your doctor thinks is best for you.

Step 2 – The incision

Incisions for the male breast reduction surgery may be made from that of liposuction, an excision technique, or both liposuction and excision techniques. The technique used will be determined by the type and severity of the gynecomastia.

Liposuction technique
In patients whose gynecomastia is primarily caused from excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be used alone to correct the area. The cannula, a thin hollow tube, will be inserted into several small incision sites, whereby back and forth movements will dislodge the fat. The fat will then be suctioned from the body using a vacuum.

Excision technique
If glandular breasts tissue or excess skin is the primary cause of the gynecomastia, excision techniques are recommended. With this method, excess glandular tissues will be removed, the areola will be reduced, and the nipple repositioned to enhance a natural male contour. Surgical patterns will vary.

Combination of liposuction and excision techniques
Depending on the condition, sometimes both liposuction and excision techniques are necessary.

Step 3 – The Results

The results of your male breast reduction or gynecomastia surgery will be visible immediately, however post-surgical swelling will take some time to resolve. Incision lines will fade and you can expect to see full results within three to six months. While your improved upper body will enhance your self-image, it is important to know that gynecomastia surgery is not an exact science. In some situations, certain individuals may need more than one surgical procedure to treat gynecomastia.