Male Breast Reduction

The overdevelopment of male breasts, also known as gynecomastia, affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. This condition may be caused by a hormonal imbalance, side effects from drugs, or may occur for no particular reason at all. But despite the cause, the condition is significant and may pose a serious problem in a man's life.

Men with large or sagging breasts can be both physically and emotionally uncomfortable, often restricting themselves from certain activities because they feel self-conscious about their breast size. Male breast reduction is an excellent way to decrease the size of a man's breast, helping him feel more comfortable and confident.

Candidate for Male Breast Reduction

A good candidate for male breast reduction surgery is any man who feels uncomfortable with his large breast size. The procedure can be performed on men of all ages who are in good health, both physically and emotionally. The best candidates for male breast reduction surgery have firm, elastic skin that will reshape well to their body's new contours.

Male Breast Reduction Procedure

Male breast reduction surgery is  performed under  moderate sedation or ageneral anesthesia.  The surgery typically takes two to three hours. Several techniques can be utilized in male breast reduction, depending on the extent of the procedure.

If the enlarged breasts are primarily caused by excessive fatty tissue, liposuction can be performed through tiny incisions to remove the excess fat. The incision is  made around the edge of the areola (the area around the nipple). If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause of the enlarged breast, the tissue will be excised, or cut out, in addition to liposuction.

In more extreme instances when large amounts of fat or glandular tissue have been removed, excess skin may have remained that has not reshaped well to the new contour of the breast. In these cases, the excess skin may have to be removed as well. The incisions are then closed using sutures and are usually covered with a dressing. The chest is wrapped to keep the skin firmly in place.

Male Breast Reduction Recovery

Following male breast reduction surgery, patients will experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort. This discomfort usually dissipates after a few days and can be reduced with prescribed medication. To help reduce swelling, an elastic pressure garment should be worn for about two to three weeks.  Swelling and any skin discoloration will partially subside after a week or two, at which time stitches will be removed.

You will be encouraged to walk around on the day of your breast reduction surgery and can expect to return to work in approximately one to two weeks. You may also begin light  exercise after a week, but you should avoid strenuous activities for about four to six weeks following surgery.

Risks and Complications of Male Breast Reduction

As with all surgical procedures, male breast reduction surgery contains a possibility of complication. Although rare, these complications include:

To learn more about our Plastic Surgery Services, please contact us at (503) 655-9727 today to schedule an appointment.