Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by enlarged male breasts. Though not often discussed, gynecomastia is a common condition and many men suffering from gynecomastia are extremely self-conscious of their appearance. Despite diligent work using exercise and diet, most men are unable to correct the appearance of their enlarged breasts, making the situation seem hopeless for some. There is often no known cause for gynecomastia though it has been associated with some medical conditions and the use of certain drugs.
What is a male breast reduction?
Male breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to contour the male chest for a flatter, firmer, more masculine appearance by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and sometimes-excess skin from the chest. There are several degrees of severity of gynecomastia, and accordingly, surgical treatment varies according to severity. The surgery may be performed on one or both breasts, depending on the patient’s individual condition. Surgical treatment for gynecomastia is divided into 2 major categories: liposuction and direct excision. Dr. Glick will consult with you and help you decide which male breast reduction surgery technique is right for you.
Am I the right candidate for male breast reduction surgery?
The best candidates for male breast reduction surgery are relatively healthy men with over-developed breasts. As a significant portion of Dr. Glick’s practice is dedicated to cosmetic surgery for men, he is well versed in the distinct nuances of the anatomical and cosmetic differences between men and women. During your consultation at Dr. Glick’s Plastic Surgery, Dr. Glick will discuss all the options available to you, and help you decide whether male breast reduction is best for you.
THE MALE BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY PROCEDURE
Initial consultation prior to male breast reduction surgery
At your initial consultation, Dr. Glick and you will carefully discuss your aesthetic concerns with regard to your chest and breasts, and define a tailored plan to improve your overall appearance. Your goals and expectations will be carefully considered and clarified. Your medical and surgical history will be reviewed in detail, and a physical examination will be conducted. Dr. Glick will advise you on which type of male breast reduction surgery technique is best for you.
Preparation for breast reduction surgery
Gynecomastia surgery is major surgery and appropriate preparation is needed accordingly. Dr. Glick may request that you visit your private medical doctor for a check-up and for any necessary lab work and x-rays. Precise preoperative instructions will be reviewed, and all necessary prescriptions will be given to you in advance of your breast reduction surgery. You will be instructed to avoid smoking, blood thinning medications, and all aspirin, aspirin-containing products, and anti-inflammatory products (Advil® or ibuprofen, and Aleve®) at least ten days before surgery. In order to promote optimal healing, a complete and comprehensive preoperative instructions will be provided for you, detailing which medications to avoid, and which vitamins , minerals, and homeopathic preparations are ok to take prior to and after breast reduction surgery. For your own safety and comfort you will need to designate a chaperon/care taker that can escort you home after the procedure. You should plan to have some help with house-hold chores, such as cooking and cleaning, as these activities are fairly difficult in the immediate postoperative period. Get plenty of rest, and dress in comfortable layered clothing.
What type of anesthesia do you need for male breast reduction surgery?
Male breast reduction surgery is an ambulatory surgery procedure that is usually performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Glick and our Board-certified anesthesiologists will extensively discuss all aspects of anesthesia, and help you make the necessary decisions for your gynecomastia surgery.
How does Dr. Glick do a male breast reduction?
There are several different techniques for performing gynecomastia surgery. If the enlargement is primarily caused by excess fatty tissue, it can be removed with liposuction alone. If excess glandular tissue and skin are present, a formal excision with or without nipple grafting will be needed. Often a combination of the two techniques is warranted.
When performing liposuction, small incisions are hidden in inconspicuous places, allowing you to conceal signs of the surgery even without a shirt. In a formal excision larger incisions are used, and, although more visible than the liposuction incisions, are made along recognizable anatomical landmarks. The underlying breast tissue is reduced and the pectoralis muscle further defined. Depending on the severity of the gynecomastia, the nipple may be detached and regrafted in a more appropriate location. After careful consultation, Dr. Glick will help you decide on the best male breast reduction surgery technique to optimize your results.
Recovery and the postoperative period
Dr. Glick’s male breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure that requires only a short rest in our comfortable recovery suite. No overnight stay is needed after male breast reduction surgery. Once surgery is completed, you will recover fully from the effects of anesthesia, and be escorted home with your designated caregiver. Dr. Glick will instruct you thoroughly on your postoperative regimen and recovery period. You may have surgical drains which will be removed within several days of surgery. You will need to wear a special support garment for several weeks to help support the new contours of the chest and to minimize swelling. In most cases the bruising is minimal and resolves after the first week, and most patients return to work and social activities after 1 to 2 weeks. Dr. Glick recommends avoidance of strenuous physical exercise until full healing has occurred and he has cleared such activities specifically. As always, you are encouraged to stay active, eat a healthy diet, and exercise as tolerated.
Results of male breast reduction surgery
The results of male breast reduction are flatter, firmer, more masculine chest and pecs. Male breast reduction surgery results are permanent, though various lifestyle and hereditary factors may impact on your long-term results. Dr. Glick’s encourages maintenance of the gynecomastia surgery results with an appropriate fitness level and healthy diet.
How much does male breast reduction surgery cost?
Male breast reduction surgery costs vary depending on exactly what technique is used. This will be outlined in detail during your consultation. Financing options are readily available.
What are Dr. Glick’s patients saying after male breast reduction surgery?
Dr. Glick’s male breast reduction surgery patients are thrilled with their new, flatter, firmer, more masculine chests. Read what they have to say about the benefits of being a patient at Dr. Glick’s Plastic Surgery.