Male Breast Reduction: End the Embarrassment

Gynecomastia is the medical term used to refer to enlargement of breast tissue in men. There can be a variety of causes, from medications to hormone imbalances to simple obesity, but the result is generally the same: embarrassment and insecurity. Plastic surgeons across the country and around the world offer breast reduction surgery for men. Male breast reduction can help you regain your confidence in the bedroom and on the beach.

The procedure for male breast reduction is very similar to the version for women. It is done under general anesthesia with small incisions placed under the armpit if possible in order to keep them easily hidden. The surgeon then removes the fat tissue and extra skin tissue from within the chest wall. He or she may use liposuction or dissection techniques. The exact type of procedure they choose to perform will depend on the patient and the extent of gynecomastia. In larger patients, extra time may be necessary in order to create natural skin folds and ensure the nipple is in an appropriate location on the chest wall.

As with any invasive surgery that involves general anesthesia, there is a set of particular side effects that any patient should be aware of. There are risks with use of the medications that sedate patients and may cause dangerously unavoidable consequences. Other risks of this type of procedure include infection, asymmetry, poor or delayed wound healing, as well as blood clot or bleeding disorders. There will be a mild to moderate amount of pain and swelling during the recovery period that is normal. However, you should immediately report any increase in pain or inflammation to your doctor. This may indicate an infection that should immediately be treated to prevent it from spreading into your bloodstream and throughout your entire body.

Recovery from male breast reduction surgery is generally quick, simple, and painless. Your surgeon may prescribe certain tight-fitting compression garments to wear around your chest for a few days or a week in order to minimize swelling and keep the new tissues in place. You may also be prescribed a round of antibiotics or a certain amount of pain medication. You will probably be advised that you can return to work within a couple of days. However, you should be sure to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Take it easy on your body and give yourself time to heal.

Male breast reduction surgery may be the type of operation you are looking for if you are a man with overly large breasts and feel self conscious about the way you look. Plastic surgeons can complement a large amount of weight loss or stubborn fat tissue with a simple operation. Discuss any medications or potential hormone imbalances with your doctor before seeking this type of surgery. The fix for your gynecomastia may be simpler than you think.