Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

What Is Gynecomastia?

The abnormal development of breast tissue in the male can cause what we call gynecomastia. Breast tissue makes up both fatty and glandular tissues. Often, diet and exercise may improve the contour of the breast, by reducing the amount of fatty tissue, we will have to surgically remove the glandular tissue.

Gynecomastia Correction

Gynecomastia correction is a procedure that improves the contour of a man's chest and flattens an overdeveloped or enlarged breast, referred to as Gynecomastia. This condition can be a source of embarrassment, leading some men to try and conceal the condition often preventing a man from removing his shirt in public or going swimming.

Causes of Gynecomastia

There are a number of physiological causes of Gynecomastia, including impaired liver function, drugs containing estrogen, anabolic steroids, alcohol, and marijuana; although in the majority of cases, we may not identify a specific cause. Prior to treatment, Dr. Duboys will perform a thorough medical history to address any underlying physiological cause. We encourage men who are overweight to lose weight prior to considering surgery.

Male Breast Reduction Procedure

Dr. Duboys will make an incision in an inconspicuous location around the areola. Through the incision, Dr. Duboys will remove glandular tissue, fat, and skin. We can make smaller reductions to reduce residual fatty tissue with liposuction alone and an incision of less than a quarter of an inch. Contouring of the male chest is next performed with liposuction and direct excision. However, if the individual has lost a significant amount of weight requiring a larger reduction, we may require additional incisions. The patient will then wear a surgical compression garment for 1 week followed by an Under Armour garment for 4-6 weeks.

Where Is Male Breast Reduction Performed?

Dr. Duboys typically performs the surgery in his fully certified in-office surgical suite. This state-of-the-art operating room is fully approved by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities a convenience that is another solid reason to trust  Dr. Duboys & Associated Plastic Surgeons & Consultants, PC.

Gynecomastia Results

After surgery, Dr. Duboys will bandage the area and a compression garment placed.  Frequently, we will insert a drain that we will remove painlessly several days later. Bruising and swelling are normal and usually resolve within a few weeks. It can also take several weeks for the skin to contour around the newly created foundation. A small scar remains, but this too fades with time.

Recovery from Gynecomastia

Following the procedure, patients can expect to return to work within 5-7 days and resume all activity 6 weeks post-operatively.

Schedule a Consultation

During your consultation with Long Island Plastic Surgeon Dr. Duboys, he will perform a thorough examination and medical history, looking for potential medical causes of Gynecomastia. If Dr. Duboys finds a cause, then he will address it prior to surgery. Dr. Duboys will also answer questions and explain details of the procedure. Call (631) 423-1000 to schedule a consultation today!