Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

What Is Gynecomastia?

Distinguished by enlarged male breasts, gynecomastia is a somewhat common condition that can affect men of all X Trusted Source Enlarged breasts in men (gynecomastia) Mayo Clinic Go to Source ages. Often beginning in adolescence, the overdevelopment of glandular tissue and/or fat in the breasts that leads to this concern can cause feelings of self-consciousness when shirtless, or when wearing clothing that tends to hug the chest. While the specific cause of gynecomastia has yet to be determined, several factors are known to contribute to the enlargement of breast tissue in men, including genetics, hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, certain medications, steroids, marijuana use, liver disease, and more. In some instances, however, there is no identifiable reason for the condition’s development.

At 740 Park Plastic Surgery in New York City, Stafford R. Broumand, MD offers male breast reduction for the treatment of gynecomastia. By employing the latest surgical techniques, Dr. Broumand is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can remove excess fat and tissue from the breasts for an improved and more masculine chest—all in a safe and discreet environment.

What Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is an outpatient cosmetic surgery that reduces the size of enlarged male breast tissue. The procedure involves the careful excision of excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin from the chest area to create a flatter and more masculine contour. Male breast reduction surgery can help improve the appearance of the chest, boost self-confidence, and alleviate any discomfort or embarrassment associated with gynecomastia.

The Male Breast Reduction Procedure

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in our state-of-the-art surgery center in Manhattan, New York. The treatment of gynecomastia is customized to each patient’s unique needs, but in general, to begin, several small incisions will typically be made inconspicuously around the perimeter of the areola. Through these micro incisions, redundant glandular tissue will be meticulously excised until an optimal contour is achieved. Should excess fatty tissue also be present, liposuction can generally be employed to remove fat cells through tiny incisions located in the lower chest. Depending on how much fat and glandular tissue is eliminated, the male breast reduction procedure often takes about one to two hours to complete, but this may vary by individual.

Recovery from Gynecomastia Treatment

Following male breast reduction, most men can expect some minor swelling and/or bruising in the treatment area, though these symptoms should subside relatively quickly. Any potential postoperative discomfort is generally described as mild and can often be managed with medication, if necessary. The majority of patients are well enough to return to non-strenuous work and normal daily routines within a few days of their procedure, but our doctor typically recommends avoiding any heavy lifting and/or vigorous physical activity for a minimum of two weeks.

Results will likely be noticeable immediately after male breast reduction surgery, and they should become even more apparent during recovery. The effects of this treatment for gynecomastia can often be maintained for many years with a healthy diet and regular exercise routine.