Half of all men experience gynecomastia, A.K.A. enlarged male breasts, at least once in their lifetime. It is a surprisingly common problem, and when it affects you, it can be a real hit to your self-confidence. Fortunately, male breast reduction surgery, A.K.A. gynecomastia surgery, can improve everything that you hate about unsightly male breasts.
Gynecomastia surgery will most often include:
- Liposuction of the chest to sculpt and reduce excess fat
- Removal of breast buds that are often painful and palpable
- Reduction of both enlarged and protruding areola
- Tightening of loose skin with both internal and external technologiesHaving a more masculine chest appearance is the number one goal of this surgery. This improvement will have an amazing effect on your self-confidence, both with or without clothes. Most importantly, it will free you of insecurities that have been holding you back in life. Check out the FAQs below. They answer some of the most commonly asked questions we get in our clinic regarding gynecomastia surgery.
Gynecomastia Frequently Asked Questions
How important is it to be close to a manageable weight before gynecomastia surgery?
Although it is not a requirement to be at your goal weight before gynecomastia surgery, it is recommended. Losing or gaining a substantial amount of weight after having gynecomastia surgery can drastically change your results.
Where will I have scars after gynecomastia surgery?
There are two common locations for gynecomastia scars. The most common approach places the incision around your areola only. This tends to heal very well, and the scar is not visible in the long term. In more severe cases of gynecomastia, when breasts are large and very droopy, incisions are placed both along the base of the chest and around the areola.
Are there any ways to reduce male breast size without surgery?
Diet and exercise can drastically reduce the size of enlarged male breasts, especially in those who are obese. Discontinuing recreational drug use can also help. Since hormonal imbalances can also lead to this condition, a workup and treatment with a hormone specialist may often be recommended as an alternative.
Should I wax or shave my chest before gynecomastia surgery?
No. You should hold off on waxing or shaving your chest at least two weeks before and six weeks after surgery, as shaving can increase your chance of getting an infection from surgery. It can also negatively affect the healing of your scar after surgery.
How long does male breast surgery take?
Gynecomastia surgery takes 2-3 hours to complete. It is usually performed in the office setting and with you awake.
Why is it important is it to remove breast buds?
The removal of breast buds is one of the most important steps of this surgery because it ensures the most complete results and decreases the risk of recurrence.
Listen to episode #17 of our podcast, Beauty and the Surgeon, where we dig deep into this common problem and its solutions (listen below).
Beauty and the Surgeon
Beauty and the Surgeon is an educational and empowering podcast that delves into all aspects of cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, beauty, fitness and personal health. Dr. Jason Martin is a renowned board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Aspen and Denver, Colorado.
Listen to Episode 17: ‘Gynecomastia’ below!