What is A Male Breast Reduction?
When performed on a man, breast reduction is a method to treat what is called gynecomastia. A breast reduction eliminates excess breast tissue. While simple liposuction is usually adequate, if the breasts are greatly enlarged, a surgical excision of the excess tissues is done followed by removing the extra skin to create a masculine chest appearance.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the presence of enlarged male breasts, most often due to a hormone imbalance. It can also be caused by obesity, certain medications, weight loss, aging, and/or anabolic steroid use. You may be surprised to learn that this embarrassing condition is fairly common, affecting approximately half of adolescent boys and up to 70% of men between the ages of 50 and 69 years of age, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Most teen boys will outgrow their gynecomastia. Adult men, however, most often need surgical intervention, as it usually will not disappear on its own. Board certified NW Indiana plastic surgeon Dr. Gus Galante has many years of experience treating Valparaiso and Schererville gynecomastia patients.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Male Breast Reduction?
The best candidates for gynecomastia treatment are healthy adolescent boys or men who have already been cleared by their physician to identify and treat any underlying health concerns that may be the cause of their enlarged breasts.
How is a Male Breast Reduction Performed?
There are two choices for surgical gynecomastia treatment. If there is only a small amount of tissue and the skin appears supple enough to “shrink” after the procedure, liposuction is generally adequate. For men with more severe breast enlargement, removal of the breast tissue and excess skin is another option.
As with all my plastic surgery procedures here in NW Indiana, a Male Breast Reduction is performed in an accredited same-day surgery center where you’ll receive personalized care and attention.
Recovery from Male Breast Reduction
Most of our NW Indiana gynecomastia patients recover quickly from their procedures. Liposuction involves very small incisions that are closed with steri-strips, while a more invasive breast reduction will involve sutures. Most patients wear a supportive vest that encourages skin tightening and prevents fluid collection while the breasts heal. Dr. Galante will advise you about exercise during your short recovery period.
If you or someone you care about is bothered with excess male breast tissue, call us at 800-721-3244 to schedule a private examination and consultation or complete this online form. At the end of your consultation, you will understand the best procedure for your situation and details of all associated expenses. Our plastic surgery practice has financing programs in place, so if you are interested in budgeting your gynecomastia treatment over time, please ask us about that.
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