Breast reduction for men (Gynecomastia)
Breast reduction is not a subject that is often associated with men, but this condition is actually quite common. The medical term gynecomastia means "woman-like breasts." Other names for enlarged male breasts are "man boobs", "moobs" or "man breasts". This condition in one or both breasts affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. While certain drugs and medical conditions can contribute to breast overdevelopment, most cases do not have a known cause (medically termed "idiopathic gynecomastia").
Breast reduction surgery can address this problem for men who feel self-conscious about their appearance. The male breast reduction procedure is desiged to removes fat and/or glandular tissue from the breasts, and, rarely, excess skin. The result is a flatter, firmer chest consistent with masculine body contour. As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, healing and final results are very individualized.
If you think you are a candidate for gynecomastia correction, this information will help you to understand the procedure. Scheduling a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon that has significant experience with this type of surgery is the best way to have your personal circumstances addressed and all of your specific questions about male breast surgery answered.
Male breast reduction surgery can be performed on men of any age who are in good physical and emotional health. The best candidates for this surgery have firm skin with sufficient elasticity to adapt to the body's improved contours.
Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to this condition. Overweight men should first attempt to correct their enlarged male breasts with weight loss and exercise. Obese men will not be ideal gynecomastia surgery candidates. Also, men who drink alcoholic beverages to excess or regularly smoke marijuana should stop their use of substances which may have caused their enlarged breasts. The same is true of anabolic steroids. In these cases, it is best to see if the breast fullness diminishes before surgery is suggested.
All surgery, even an elective procedure, has elements of risk and uncertainty. Choosing a board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience with this kind of surgery minimizes this, but complications may occur, which may include infection, skin injury, excessive bleeding, excessive fluid loss or retention, and adverse reaction to anesthesia. In Dr. Blau’s experience, a second procedure is rarely necessary to revise the results. There may be temporary loss of breast sensation or numbness after the gynecomastia procedure which may last for several months or even a year. Swelling should subside within six months.
As with all cosmetic surgery, results will be rewarding if expectations are realistic. As with any surgery, there are some risks which your doctor will discuss with you.
The following male breast reduction before-and-after photos will give you a sense of the results Dr. Blau has achieved in gynecomastia surgery. However, each patient is unique and previous results are not a guarantee for individual outcomes.
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