Gynecomastia Treatment / Male Breast Reduction
Men can occasionally develop excessive fat and glandular tissue on their chest resulting in male breast enlargement. This medical condition, referred to as gynecomastia, can be a source of physical discomfort and low self-confidence. The latest surgical techniques, however, make it possible to manage this problem with significant improvement in appearance. Male breast reduction surgery can remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to tighten and flatten the areas, and restore a natural shape to the chest. Dr. Robert Schlenker, an extensively trained and board certified plastic surgeon, offers a number of advanced procedures to correct this issue with long-term results. Dr. Schlenker is committed to helping patients effectively address this concern and enhance their overall well-being.
Explore Topics On This Page:
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia affects men of all ages and can be caused by multiple factors, including an imbalance of hormones, medications, drug and alcohol abuse, genetics, and certain medical problems. If temporary fluctuations in hormone levels are responsible, more commonly found in teenage boys during puberty, this condition will usually resolve on its own within a couple of years. Most of the time gynecomastia is due to a genetic predisposition, in which case surgical treatment will be required to correct the problem.
There are two types of gynecomastia which can result in feminization of the male breast. True gynecomastia can be more symptomatic and is characterized by an enlargement of both fatty tissue and abnormal glandular breast tissue. In pseudogynecomastia, which tends to occur in overweight patients, there is only excess underlying fatty tissue present. Male breast reduction surgery is a highly individualized procedure, and each of these conditions requires a different treatment plan. During your initial consultation, Dr. Schlenker will evaluate the severity and extent of the gynecomastia, and recommend the best surgical approach based on your specific needs and goals.
What are the treatment options for gynecomastia?
There are several different treatment options available depending on the type of gynecomastia and amount of breast enlargement. If no dense fibrous breast tissue is present and the skin quality is good, liposuction alone can be used to remove the unwanted fatty tissue and reduce the size of the breasts. In true gynecomastia, a minimally-invasive male breast reduction procedure is usually performed to remove both excess fatty tissue and glandular breast tissue. This technique combines liposuction and direct gland excision through a short incision placed along the lower portion of the areola (pigmented area around the nipple).
In the most severe cases of oversized male breasts, excess skin may need to be removed which will require additional incisions on the chest. If necessary, enlarged nipples and areolas can be re-positioned and reduced in size. Additional liposuction of adjacent areas, including the armpits and lateral chest, can also be performed to provide additional shape and definition to the chest. Each approach has specific advantages, and Dr. Schlenker will review all of the options with you and decide which surgical procedure offers the best outcome while minimizing the visibility of any scars.
How long will recovery after gynecomastia treatment take?
The length of recovery will be different for each patient depending on the surgical techniques used and the amount of excess tissue removed. Most patients are able to resume work and non-strenuous activities within a week of their procedure, and they are advised to avoid heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks. Dr. Schlenker will provide post-operative instructions for the different phases of the recovery process, and medication will be prescribed to help manage any pain and discomfort. Swelling and bruising in the treated area is normal, and these effects will gradually improve over time. While some changes will be immediately visible after surgery, it may take several months for swelling to resolve, skin tightening to occur, and final chest shape to develop.
For more information about gynecomastia and its treatment options, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schlenker.