Male Breast Reduction Gynecomastia Repair

By Susan K Buenaventura, MS, MD

The Sendi Center for Cosmetic Surgery

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Male Breast Reduction Gynecomastia Repair

Many men suffer from having too much fullness in their chest, creating the appearance of breasts. This can occur in adolescents, and sometimes resolves on its own. It can persist into adulthood, when it is unlikely to go away. Male breast growth also occurs frequently around age 65 when hormonal shifts occur in men.

Most of the time the cause is unknown, but it can be associated childhood obesity or certain medications. It is not uncommon for men to intentionally keep their weight higher to minimize the appearance of their chest. Many men also have discomfort from the excess tissue. Compression vests and garments can help minimize the fullness under clothing, but this is not an option in the locker room, at the pool, or at the beach. This condition is called Gynecomastia and it is treatable with surgery.

The first step would be consultation with a plastic surgeon to determine if you have gynecomastia and if you are a candidate for surgery. At the consultation, your surgeon will discuss potential other causes of the gynecomastia and see if additional testing is necessary to rule out metabolic disorders. You would also see your primary care doctor in preparation for surgery.

Male breast reduction generally involves removal of excess fatty tissue and breast tissue. Liposuction is performed around the breast area to remove fatty tissue between the skin and chest muscle. After liposuction is completed, there is usually some firm residual breast tissue surrounding the areola. A small incision is made around the areola and the excess tissue is removed. It is important that the breast tissue is sent to a pathologist to evaluate, as male breast cancer occurs in about one percent of men with enlarged breasts. The incision is closed with invisible stitches and the patient is placed in a vest to provide some external compression to the skin.

Pain is usually minimal, but it is important to take it easy after surgery to minimize the risk of any complications. Exercise can usually be resumed about six weeks after surgery and the compression vest is worn under clothing for about a month. Patient satisfaction is high with male breast reduction. If this is a concern for you, consult with a board certified Plastic Surgeon.