Overdevelopment of the male breast is common in men of any age. Typically, teenage boys have an increase in the size of the breast with the onset of puberty but this usually resolves on its own. In some cases however, excess breast tissue remains, which gives an enlarged appearance to the breast. This may be the result of hormonal changes or heredity and is often emotionally distressing to young men as they are embarrassed to remove their shirts in front of others. The good news is that gynecomastia is very treatable. Older men may experience gynecomastia from disease or certain drugs and medications. Contributing factors include alcohol consumption, tobacco use, marijuana use, and the use of anabolic steroids. A full medical evaluation is important when seeking treatment to pinpoint the cause of gynecomastia.
- What is Gynecomastia Treatment?
- Gynecomastia Treatment Candidates
- Gynecomastia Treatment Procedure
- Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery
- Gynecomastia Treatment Results
- Gynecomastia Treatment Cost
What is Gynecomastia Treatment?
Gynecomastia is often treated with a combination of two surgical techniques—liposuction and direct excision. Liposuction is used to thin the fatty component of the excess breast tissue. Virginia plastic surgeon Behzad Parva, MD prefers to use Ultrasound-Guided Liposuction which uses sound waves to break up the fat cells and is effective in dense tissues such as the male breast. Often, the other technique is to directly remove the non-fatty tissue which is primarily the dense, fibrous tissue directly behind the nipple-areola. This is performed by making a small incision along the lower margin of the areola after having first performed the liposuction portion of the procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?
- Men with completed evaluation and failed alternate medical treatments
- Healthy individual
- Non-smoker
- Non-drug users
- Best performed when physical growth is complete
- Realistic goals and expectations
What Does the Male Breast Reduction Procedure Involve?
The surgical technique used depends on the cause of the gynecomastia, the size of the breast and the quality of the skin. Often a small incision is made below the breast at the crease for the liposuction and another at the lower edge of the areola to remove fibrous tissue behind the nipple and areola. Drains are often used to prevent fluid build-up under the skin. If there is excess skin and a large amount of breast tissue, more extensive incisions may be indicated to reduce the size and remove excess skin. A compressive garment is placed at the completion of surgery. Dr. Parva will review his recommendations after a thorough examination and consultation.
How Long Is the Recovery After Male Breast Reduction?
- Initial healing takes 5 to 10 days
- Sutures removal usually by 7 days
- Drain removal within 1 week
- Wear compression garment for 2 to 4 weeks
- Return to work and normal activities in 1 to 2 weeks
- Light activities permitted within 2 weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise until cleared
- Sun protection is important and scar reduction techniques, such as garments and silicone gel are helpful in the weeks and months to follow
When Will I See My Male Breast Reduction Results?
Noticeable results are seen immediately but it will take several months for swelling to settle and for the long term results to be evident.
Firmness and numbness may take months to improve and scars can take more than 1 year to fade. Scars however are permanent but less noticeable because of the location in the breast crease or the edge of the areola.
Your new contours are long lasting when you maintain body weight and fitness.
If gynecomastia was due to drugs or prescription medication, you must refrain from these substances in order to maintain your results.
“Dear Dr. Parva and Staff,
I was nervous about the entire experience but your professionalism, compassion, skill, and superior care helped me through. I am absolutely delighted with the results; I could not be any more satisfied. I truly feel like a new person.”
How Much Does Male Breast Reduction Cost?
The cost of treating gynecomastia through male breast reduction surgery will depend on the extent of your surgical needs, as well as additional costs like anesthesia and hospital facility fees.
Schedule Your Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia) Consultation
Please contact Parva Plastic Surgery for your male breast reduction (gynecomastia) consultation today.