Gynecomastia, which is the overdevelopment of male breasts, affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It can be the result of hormonal imbalance, obesity, certain drugs or heredity, and can affect one or both breasts.

Candidates for male breast reduction are men who have large or sagging breasts that make them feel physically and/or emotionally uncomfortable. Breast reduction can be performed on men who are at a stable weight; are in good health, both physically and emotionally; do not smoke; and are not overweight.

Male Breast Reduction Procedure

If the enlarged breasts are caused primarily by excessive fatty tissue, the tissue is typically removed with liposuction, during which a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) is inserted through extremely small incisions, and then moved back and forth to loosen excess fat, which is suctioned out using a vacuum or a cannula-attached syringe. The incisions are made around the lower halves of the areolas or in the underarms.

If the enlarged breasts are caused primarily by excess glandular tissue, a larger incision is required. Incisions are made to allow for tissue to be removed. Severe gynecomastia, with significant excess skin, requires repositioning the areolas/nipples and excising excess skin. Sutures are used to close the incisions, which are then bandaged, and the area is typically covered by a compression garment. Larger excisions will require a drain for up to a week.

Recovery from Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Patients typically return to work within a week. Light aerobic exercise can be performed after a week, but strenuous activities should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.

Risks of Male Breast Reduction