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Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia Surgery)
An attractive chest for men often involves a chiseled or defined pectoral area. A soft, feminine chest shape can be a source of embarrassment for men who suffer from gynecomastia. This medical condition, caused by a hormone imbalance, can affect males of all ages and creates the appearance of enlarged breasts. Dr. Ip will help you develop a gynecomastia treatment plan to restore a firm, masculine chest contour.
The Benefits of Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Developing glandular tissue is the primary hallmark of gynecomastia, which is what can cause a breast-like shape. Glandular tissue is a direct result of a hormone imbalance or is a side effect of some medications. Excision techniques can be implemented during your male breast reduction to remove glandular tissue, restoring the shape of your chest.
Fatty tissue accumulation around the areolas can create a puffy, breast-like chest appearance. Excess fat may or may not be accompanied by glandular tissue. While a medical condition may be the cause of your fat accumulation, an unhealthy diet, using steroids, or abusing drugs and alcohol can result in excess breast tissue.
Glandular tissue and excess fat can rob your chest of its masculine definition. This can be a source of embarrassment, which may prevent you from feeling confident in your appearance. By treating your excess glandular tissue and/or fatty tissue, we can restore a more attractive chest look that will make you feel more comfortable with your body.
Dr. Ip Will Guide You
through the decision-making process so that you can achieve the look you love.
Your Male Breast Reduction Options
- Excess fat is removed from around the areola
- The incisions are placed around the outer edge of the chest
- A cannula is inserted into the incisions, and a sweeping motion breaks up the fat buildup
- The loosened fat is removed using gentle suction
- Excision is considered a more aggressive approach
- This treatment removes glandular tissue and fat deposits
- Small incisions are placed along the chest, particularly around the areola
- Excess tissue is trimmed away from the surrounding area
- The remaining skin is repositioned to maintain a natural contour along the chest
- An endoscopic technique is considered less invasive and requires more minimal downtime
- Smaller and fewer incisions can be used with an endoscopic technique
- This technique can remove all of the glandular tissue and is often combined with liposuction to achieve the best contour possible
Recovery
Immediately following your surgery, you will experience bruising and swelling around your chest. A specialty compression garment should be worn to help minimize excess swelling. It is important to carefully follow your postoperative instructions to ensure quality healing and the best results possible.
Diet is an essential factor in your healing process. It is necessary that you provide your body with the essential vitamins and nutrients it needs to heal following your surgery. Your diet should consist of protein, healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits. However, a diet of soft foods may be ideal immediately following your surgery because of the side effects of the general anesthesia. A detailed list of healthy, nutrient-packed foods will be provided before your surgery.
Patients will be required to limit their physical activities following their procedure. You will need to rest for several days after surgery. Most patients return to work two weeks after their procedure. You can resume your regular exercise routine sometime between four and six weeks post-surgery. You shouldn’t smoke for at least six weeks after your procedure.
You will be prescribed medications to take on a routine basis following your surgery. KEFLEX® and CIPRO® (ciprofloxacin) are antibiotics used to prevent infection. Flexeril™ and Valium® are muscle relaxers used to reduce discomfort. Pain medication may also be used to relieve any additional discomfort you may feel during your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Patients preparing for breast reduction surgery should quit smoking six weeks before their surgery. You shouldn’t take any blood-thinning medications for two weeks prior to your procedure. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of nutrients. Do not eat after midnight the day of your surgery.
A: Male breast reduction surgery is performed using a general anesthetic. This is to ensure patient comfort and safety during the procedure.
A: Male breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure and typically takes two hours to perform.
A: You will provide Dr. Ip with your health history, inform him of any medications or supplements you are taking, and tell him the results you expect from your procedure. Dr. Ip will assess the causes of your male breasts to determine which technique(s) will meet your needs.
A: Patients see a noticeable improvement in their chest contour immediately following their surgery. However, postoperative swelling may mask your final results. Once the swelling subsides after six weeks, your final, permanent results will become apparent. Male breast reduction surgery provides long-lasting results, but you should address the primary cause of your gynecomastia to prevent its return.