This page contains information about Gynecomastia, also known as male breast reduction. It includes a description of the procedure, and information about recovery time, potential complications, and costs
What is male breast reduction? Male breast reductionis a type of cosmetic surgery to correct over-developed or enlarged breasts in men.
Who should get male breast reduction? Men who have enlarged breasts due to gynecomastia (excess glandular breast tissue) or pseudogynecomastia (a deposit of excess fat in the area of the male breasts) may be good candidates for male breast reduction.
What do I have to do before getting a male breast reduction? Before getting a male breast reduction, you will need to have a preoperative consultation with your surgeon. During the consultation, your surgeon will explain the options that available to you. The procedure will be discussed in detail, including the risks and limitations of your surgery.
Your chest will be examined, measured, and photographed for reference both during and after your surgery. You may be required to have a mammogram and blood tests.
During your preoperative consultation, the surgeon will give you instructions as to what you can or cannot eat or drink before surgery, which medications you should take or avoid, and a list of things you will need to have on hand for your recovery. Your surgeon will answer any questions you might have at this time, so come to your appointment prepared.
What happens during male breast reduction surgery? Male breast reduction may be performed under general anesthesia (which means that you will be given drugs through an IV to put you to sleep) or IV sedation (which means you will be given sedatives through an IV to help you relax).
The technique for your surgery will depend on the degree of breast enlargement.
Male Breast Reduction Techniques
Liposuction. In cases of pseudogynecomastia (where breast enlargement is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue), liposuction may be used instead of excision. This requires insertion of a thin hollow tube (cannula) through several small incisions. The cannula is moved back and forth to loosen the excess fat, which is then removed by vacuum suction.
Excision. Excision techniques are used when breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to correct gynecomastia. Excision also is necessary if the areola will be reduced, or the nipple repositioned to a more natural contour. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference.
Gynecomastia is sometimes treated with both liposuction and excision.
How long does it take to recover from male breast reduction surgery? You may be able to go home the same day as your surgery, but you will need someone to drive you. You will likely be sore for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Your surgeon can prescribe medications for pain.
Most of the swelling will subside in the first few weeks, although it may be three months or more before the final results of your surgery are apparent. Stitches are generally removed one to two weeks after the procedure.
All scars are permanent, even though some scars may be concealed in the natural contours of the breast. Avoid exposing surgical scars to the sun for at least six months. Sunlight can permanently affect the skin's pigmentation, causing the scar to turn dark. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a strong sunblock.
Most people are able to return to work within a few days after surgery. You may be required to wear a surgical compression garment (see below for post-surgical support garment options), and limit your activities for a few weeks following surgery.
Male Breast Reduction Compression Garments
Immediately following a male breast reduction procedure you doctor may instruct you to purchase and continuously wear a compression garment. These are designed to help improve and increase blood circulation, rid your body of potentially harmful fluids, decrease your post surgery recovery time, and reduce swelling. They also help the new skin fit the body’s contours allowing you to recover faster.
These garments are typically worn immediately after your surgery. They are generally worn continuously for a few weeks, so you may want to purchase more than one.
Contour® is America's 1st choice in premium quality post-surgical compression garments for women and men. Contour® has 25 years of experience with design, fabric and craftsmanship so Contour® garments fit every subtle contour of the body, offering unprecedented comfort during the recovery process. ContourMD website also offers helpful information on recovery tips and sizing charts.
What are the risks related to male breast reduction? Although male breast reduction is a relatively safe procedure, all surgery comes with some risk. Potential complications may include:
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Delayed wound healing
- Infection
- Reactions to medications
- Noticeable scars
- Permanent pigment changes in the breast area
- Slightly mismatched breasts or nipples
- Temporary loss of breast sensation or numbness
Many of these complications can be avoided if you closely follow your surgeon’s instructions.
How much does male breast reduction cost? The cost of male breast reduction varies based on a number of factors including:
- Type of surgery
- Geographic location
- Facility fees
- Surgeon expertise and demand
Costs can range from around $2700 to around $5,000.
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