Male breast reduction surgery is a popular elective procedure that aims to reduce extra fats and tissues on the breast, to make it flatter and more muscular in appearance. Otherwise known as Mammaplasty, this type of cosmetic surgery makes use of various techniques, and choosing the appropriate will depend on the patient's goals and overall medical history.
Gynecomastia is a condition wherein there is a benign or non-cancerous enlargement of the male breasts. Since this is primarily a build-up of overgrown breast tissues, diet and exercise are often ineffective in resolving it. In adult males, breast enlargement can also happen due to illness, alcoholism, or overuse of certain medications. While it typically affects boys who are going through hormonal changes, studies show that gynecomastia can happen to 40-60 percent of all males during their lifetime.
Although breast enlargement is not a serious condition, it can sometimes cause pain and embarrassment, which are difficult to cope with. And while some cases of breast enlargement go away on their own, some which persist may require medical or surgical intervention.
The primary goal of male breast reduction is to remove excess tissue and effectively restore a more masculine appearance to the breast. Considered to be the most effective and widely used technique to treat gynecomastia, it is the quick go-to for those who want to achieve dramatic improvements with minimal scarring.
Male breast reduction surgery is generally a straightforward procedure, yet it offers various techniques. The best and most appropriate option is then discussed with the attending surgeon, days or weeks before the actual procedure.
Reduction techniques include breast reduction through liposuction, breast reduction with tissue excision, or both. When done by a skilled and knowledgeable surgeon, this procedure is quite safe and yields great results.
Average Cost
$5,450
Price Range
$1,400 to $9,500
The technique used for male breast reduction surgery depends largely on what's causing the breast enlargement.
Upon evaluation, the surgeon will identify the cause and decide on the most appropriate technique to use. An accumulation of fatty deposits will require liposuction, which can take out all the fats but not totally flatten the chest. This involves the insertion of a cannula through several incisions around the breast and nipple area. The cannula is then moved in a controlled motion to loosen the fat. After which, these excess fats will then be removed with the use of vacuum suction.
With a Subcutaneous Mastectomy, breast tissues are removed through an incision pattern that is determined depending on the surgical preference and specific condition. This technique is recommended in cases where glandular tissues need removal to correct gynecomastia. With the incision done usually around the areola, the skin is left intact with minimal scarring on the periareolar area.
Skin shrinkage after surgery more often happens to younger patients, and the most common approach is the Webster incision, which extends around the bottom half of the areola.
There is also what is known as the 'pull-through technique' which goes well with patients that have highly elastic skin. In this method, a small incision is made at the base of the breast where the glandular tissue is carefully pulled out after liposuction.
In severe cases where there is a lot of loose skin, resectioning the skin and moving the nipple are needed.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction is also gaining popularity as it makes breast liposuction much easier and effectively works on its own or in combination with other types of breast surgery.
Post-treatment
Like any other type of surgery, some pain and discomfort are expected after the procedure, but these are just parts of the healing process and should go away in a few days. Medications may also help, as well as rest and a healthy diet.
Most patients are up and about and ready to get back to work a week after surgery. During follow-up consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patients and decide if they are well enough to go back to their normal activities.
Immediately After Surgery
We understand you may want to change your plans due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its health implications.
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All surgeries and procedures carry some amount of risks. With breast reduction surgery, the risks and possible complications are as follows:
Who are the best candidates for gynecomastia?
Young boys, adolescents, elderly men, and those who are obese are all prone to the development of large breasts.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is often caused by hormone imbalances in boys. This happens when there is more Estrogen than Testosterone in the body. Because estrogen is a female hormone, one side effect of this is the development of large breasts in boys. Some medications may also contribute to the development of gynecomastia such as antibiotics and anti-androgens.
In elder males, gynecomastia can happen as a result of obesity or certain medical conditions. In addition to this, alcohol and substance abuse and addiction can also cause enlargement of the breasts.
How long do I need to stay in the hospital?
You will need to spend 1-2 days in the hospital after surgery. After which, you may go home with after-care instructions. You also need to come back for a follow-up consultation after one week, so that the surgeon can check the incision site, and evaluate your recovery.
How long is the recovery period for male breast reduction surgery?
Most of the minor side effects should resolve in 1-2 weeks, and full recovery is expected between 6-12 months.
Will I be awake during male breast reduction surgery?
Before surgery, you will be administered general anesthesia, and this will render you unconscious during the entire procedure.
How much scarring would there be after a male breast reduction?
The amount of scarring varies depending on each case, the technique done, and the patient's individual ability to heal. Having skilled surgeons performing the surgery, and religiously adhering to after-care instructions also help minimize the appearance of visible scars.