MALE BREAST REDUCTION
Gynecomastia is a medical term that originates from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” This condition is far more common than many realize. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of the male population. It may affect only one breast or both. Certain drugs such as anabolic steroids, alcohol, marijuana, as well as medications containing estrogen may cause enlarged male breasts. Certain medical conditions including cancer and impaired liver function may also be a contributing factor. It is widely accepted that a large percentage of cases derive from unknown sources.
Men of any age who are healthy and emotionally stable are considered good candidates for male breast reduction surgery. The best candidates are those who have firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body’s new contours. In some instances, surgery may be discouraged for overweight men who have not tried an exercise and diet regimen prior to surgery.
We offer gynecomastia surgery in Chicago, gynecomastia treatment, gynecomastia plastic surgery, male breast surgery, male breast reduction surgery in our best plastic surgery clinic equipped with gynecomastia surgeons, male breast reduction surgeons in in Chicago, Barrington, Oak Brook, Orland Park.
We also provide breast explant surgery in Chicago.We also provide breast explant surgery in Chicago.
Enlarged male breasts can be reduced by liposuction and/or by cutting out excess glandular tissue. The procedure for male breast reduction takes an average of two hours, usually on an outpatient basis, using general or local anesthesia. If excessive glandular tissue, fat and skin are present, it will be removed.
Surgery may be performed alone or in conjunction with lipoplasty, where the suction device will typically be inserted through the existing incisions. For the removal of excess fatty tissue alone, liposuction may be all that is needed; in such cases, scars will be small and barely visible.
Results are permanent, although subsequent obesity can create a gynecomastia-like effect. Some of the benefits of surgery include a firmer, flatter, more contoured chest that may give the male patient a boost in self-confidence. There is little downtime, and you may return to work within one week usually, unless you are involved in strenuous activities.
There will be scarring around the nipple of the breast (areola) from this procedure but it will fade over a period of time and be less visible. There will be some post-operative bruising, swelling, and burning sensation that may occur. To assist with the healing process, the patient will wear an elastic pressure garment for 3-6 weeks and must avoid exposing scarred areas to the sun for at least six months.
Other considerations include temporary numbness or a lack of sensation that could last up to a year. Infrequent complications may include infection, skin damage, fluid accumulation, bleeding, and scarring or pigment changes. While rare, post-operative asymmetry is always a possibility. A second procedure may be needed to remove additional tissue.
Dr. Dhaval Patel is an accomplished Double Board Certified Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, who is skillful enough to restore your youthfulness which has been lost with the effects of aging & gravity. He is the man behind the famous Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery.
Recovery timeline
Male breast reduction recovery timelines vary, with most significant progress in the first 1-2 weeks, allowing a return to work and light activity while wearing a compression vest. Full recovery takes longer, around 3-6 months, to fully resolve swelling and bruising and see final results. Key steps include pain management, wearing a compression garment, avoiding strenuous activity, and focusing on rest and a healthy lifestyle.
Immediate Post-Op (First Few Days)
- Pain & Swelling: Expect pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with medication.
- Compression Vest: Wear a compression vest to control swelling and help the skin retract.
- Activity: Limit activity to light walking and rest. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and heat exposure.
- Showering: You may be permitted to shower after the first day, but avoid baths, hot tubs, and saunas.
- Sleep: Sleep with your upper body elevated for the first week.
1-2 Weeks Post-Op
- Return to Work: Most patients can return to work during this period, depending on their job’s demands.
- Activity Level: Continue to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
2-6 Weeks Post-Op
- Resuming Exercise: Patients may be able to resume light exercise and more normal physical activities after this period, but heavy activity is still restricted.
- Decreased Swelling: Swelling and bruising will gradually subside.
2-6 Weeks Post-Op
- Resuming Exercise: Patients may be able to resume light exercise and more normal physical activities after this period, but heavy activity is still restricted.
- Decreased Swelling: Swelling and bruising will gradually subside.
1-6 Months Post-Op
- Final Results: Significant healing continues, with bruising and swelling resolving completely over several months.
- Full Recovery: You can typically resume most activities, including strenuous exercise, after this time frame, as advised by your surgeon.
have a question?
Quick answers to questions you may have
What is male breast reduction surgery?
Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is a procedure that removes excess fat, glandular tissue, and sometimes skin to create a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour.
Is the procedure permanent?
Yes, the results are generally long-lasting as long as the patient maintains a stable weight and avoids factors (like steroid or drug use) that can cause recurrence.
Will there be visible scars?
Incisions are typically small and placed in inconspicuous areas. With proper healing, scars are minimal and fade over time.
Are there risks involved in male breast reduction?
Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, or changes in nipple sensation. Choosing a board-certified surgeon helps reduce these risks.
Am I a good candidate for male breast reduction?
Ideal candidates are healthy men with enlarged breasts that do not improve with diet or exercise. Non-smokers and those at a stable weight see the best outcomes.
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Other considerations include temporary numbness or a lack of sensation that could last up to a year. Infrequent complications may include infection, skin damage, fluid accumulation, bleeding, and scarring or pigment changes. While rare, post-operative asymmetry is always a possibility. A second procedure may be needed to remove additional tissue.
Dr. Dhaval Patel is an accomplished Double Board Certified Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, who is skillful enough to restore your youthfulness which has been lost with the effects of aging & gravity. He is the man behind the famous Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery.
