Gynecomastia, or “man boobs,” can be devastating to a man’s self-confidence. Gynecomastia surgery is a way to permanently reduce the appearance of male breasts for a flatter, more masculine chest.
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Sometimes called male breast reduction, gynecomastia surgery is a procedure that reduces the appearance of enlarged breast tissue or fat on the chest. Gynecomastia has many different causes, including:
- Hormonal changes
- Genetics
- Overweight
- Medication or drug use
Sometimes, gynecomastia has no clear cause. Most men experience gynecomastia at some point (typically during puberty) which then goes away. For some men, gynecomastia does not go away, and surgery is the best solution.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Right for Me?
Gynecomastia surgery is best for men who are bothered by the appearance of enlarged breasts and who feel embarrassed in situations where it’s common to remove their shirt. If there’s no underlying cause of gynecomastia or it doesn’t subside on its own, then you may be a good candidate for surgery. You should also be in good overall health, at a healthy and stable weight, non-smoking, and have no medical conditions that might impair your recovery.
Your Gynecomastia Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery can be performed using general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation (Dr. Trupiano will decide the right option for you during your consultation). To begin, Dr. Trupiano will create incisions and then perform one of the following techniques on the underlying tissue:
- Surgical excision (best for enlarged breast tissue)
- Liposuction (best for stubborn fat)
In some cases, a combination approach might be used. Dr. Trupiano will also reposition and reduce the areolae and nipples if needed. Once complete, your incisions are closed, and you can return home.
Gynecomastia Surgery Results and Recovery
Gynecomastia surgery typically requires 3-6 weeks of recovery, based on your surgical procedure. During this time, you’ll be given a surgical compression vest to wear as much as possible. This is to help reduce swelling and fluid build-up, and to help the skin adhere to the new contours. You should avoid strenuous activity and exercise until otherwise indicated by Dr. Trupiano. It’s normal to experience swelling and bruising at the surgical site, but this begins to subside within 2-3 weeks. It can take a few months for your final results to settle in, but you can enjoy long-term results with gynecomastia surgery as long as you maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Schedule a Consultation
Gynecomastia surgery can be a life-changing procedure for many men. To learn more about your options, schedule a consultation with one of America’s Top Breast Surgeons, Dr. Trupiano. You can reach our Troy, MI office by calling or filling out our online form.
Gynecomastia FAQs
Can you get rid of gynecomastia without surgery?
Can gynecomastia grow back after surgery?
Can thyroid problems cause gynecomastia?
Does gynecomastia go away with weight loss?
Does gynecomastia surgery leave scars?
How can gynecomastia be prevented?
How long do you have to wear a compression garment after gynecomastia?
What causes gynecomastia in males?
What is the best treatment for gynecomastia?
Is gynecomastia surgery painful?
