Male Breast Reduction
Breast reduction for men, or gynecomastia, is a surgical procedure that is not often talked about but affects nearly 50% of the male population.
Gynecomastia is a condition resulting in overdeveloped breast tissue in men. It is common in men of all ages. Gynecomastia may be caused by hormone changes, heredity, or the use of certain medications.
At your consultation, one of the plastic surgeons at The Centre, P.C. will review your medical history, examine your chest and recommend solutions. In very rare cases, your plastic surgeon may recommend a mammogram to rule out the possibility of breast cancer and to check the composition of the breast. Gynecomastia cost between $6,500-$7,500.
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery, contact the experienced and compassionate staff at The Centre, P.C. to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
After your consultation, your plastic surgeon will determine which procedure will effectively aid in the reduction of your chest. If the gynecomastia is due to excess glandular tissue, the plastic surgeon will need to remove the tissue through a small incision around the areola (the colored area around the nipple). If the gynecomastia is due to excessive fatty tissue, your plastic surgeon may recommend liposuction to reduce the size of your chest.
Liposuction will require a small poke hole incision that will allow insertion of a small hollow tube called a cannula to suction the excess fat from the area. In the event that both glandular and fatty tissues are excessive, your plastic surgeon may use a combination of techniques in order to achieve optimal results. Once the tissue is removed, the area is closed and wrapped firmly. You will also wear a compression garment for a period of about 4 weeks.
Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help minimize discomfort. Swelling will resolve within 3 months. You will be up and moving within a few days but be sure to check with your plastic surgeon before resuming your normal activities.
In some cases, the amounts of fat tissue and glandular tissue are overly excessive requiring that excess skin be removed, and incisions be made larger. Small drain tubes may be inserted beneath the skin to drain excess fluid. These drains are typically removed after 5-7 days.
Rarely, insurance companies will pay for gynecomastia. When trying to have your surgery covered by your insurance company, we will need to submit photos along with a predetermination letter. Your insurance company will determine whether they deem your surgery is medically necessary. Each insurance company has different policies.
Whether your gynecomastia is treated with liposuction, excisional surgery, or both, you will have scars after surgery. However, they both become almost imperceptible over the course of 12-18 months. Liposuction incisions are tiny and fade beautifully over time. Excisional surgery, meaning skin or tissue was removed, typically leaves a scar around the areola. This scar also heals very well over time. The Centre, P.C. also provides patients with silicone scar strips and gel to help scars mature faster.
Breast and nipple hypersensitivity or numbness may occur after surgery and last to up to a year or longer. In rare cases, this is permanent.
As with all procedures, there is always a possibility of certain risks and complications. Noticeable scars can occur along with pigmentation changes and a slightly asymmetrical chest. Very rare complications include bleeding, infection or an adverse reaction to anesthesia or medications. This is why it is vital to share all of your medical history, including past surgeries, medications, allergies, and so on. You can reduce these risks by following your surgeon's instructions closely.