Male Breast Reduction

Breast reduction surgery for men, also called gynecomastia surgery, is performed to reduce breast size in men and to flatten and enhance the chest contours. In more severe cases, the excess breast tissue may cause sagging and stretching of the areola. In such cases, the position and size of the areola can be surgically improved.

WHAT IS GYNECOMASTIA?

Gynecomastia is a condition of overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men, which can occur at any age. This condition can be caused by hormonal changes, heredity, obesity or certain drugs. It can cause emotional discomfort or distress and can impair self-esteem.

Medications that can contribute to or cause gynecomastia include spironolactone, digitalis, cimetidine, alcohol (chronic), marijuana and ketoconazole.

CHARACTERISTICS OF GYNECOMASTIA:

• Excess localized fat
• Excess glandular tissue development
• Occasional excess breast skin
• Can present unilaterally or bilaterally

GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY AT THE OUR CLINIC

Dr. Zelken uses different surgical techniques to perform male breast reduction surgery, depending on the underlying cause of male breast enlargement. During your consultation, Dr. Zelken and his staff will evaluate your health and any pre-existing conditions or risk factors, perform diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause, examine your breasts and take measurements, discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment. The consultation is the best time to ask any questions you may have.

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

You may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery if:

• Your condition cannot be corrected through alternative treatments
• You do not have a life-threatening illness or condition that may impair healing
• You are a non-smoker and non-drug user
• You have a positive outlook and a goal in mind for improving the symptoms of gynecomastia
• You are physically healthy and of relatively normal weight
• You have realistic expectations
• Your breast development has stabilized
• You feel your breasts are too large

HOW IS BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY FOR MEN PERFORMED?

There are various techniques used for gynecomastia surgery, such as liposuction, excision or a combination of both. Every case is different, and your options will be discussed during consultation to decide the best course of action.

In men whose gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be the better option. In the liposuction technique uses the insertion of a cannula – a thin, hollow tube – through several small incisions, the cannula is then moved back and forth to loosen the excess fat, which is then removed via vacuum suction.

The excision technique is commonly used in cases where glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to correct the gynecomastia. Excision may also be necessary if the areola is reduced or the nipple is to be repositioned to a more natural contour.

RECOVERY AFTER GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

Like many other medical procedures, there is a recovery period. Dressings or bandages are applied to the incisions and an elastic bandage may be used to minimize swelling. Drains may also be temporarily inserted under the skin to drain any excess fluid. You will be given specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site or drains, any medications to take or apply and when to follow up.

CAN WE TRY SCARLESS GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY?

Absolutely. In most cases, a small incision underneath the areola allows Dr. Zelken to remove any glandular tissue that may be present (hard painful nodules). The rest is done with liposuction, in most cases. If there is redundant skin, the skin is typically excised directly and closed. However, in milder cases, BodyTite RFAL technology may be used to “shrink wrap” your skin and Dr. Zelken can show examples of what these results look like during your consulation.

READY FOR A CONSULTATION?

If you’re considering a Breast Reduction Surgery for Men or have further questions about the procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us or schedule a consultation with Dr. Zelken. We’re located at 1617 Westcliff Drive in Newport Beach, CA, and we can be reached at (949) 432-4730. We serve patients from across the world — we have a Mandarin Chinese-speaking physician — as well as clients in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine and Laguna Beach, California.

FAQ

ARE THERE ANY RISKS INVOLVED?

As with any procedure, there are risks involved. Deciding to have gynecomastia surgery is a personal decision, and you should weigh the benefits against the risks. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks and potential complications.

Some risks and potential complications include:

● Reaction to anesthesia

● Bleeding/Hematoma

● Blood clots

● Breast asymmetry or shape irregularities

● Changes in nipple sensation

● Damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles and lungs

● Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications

● Fat necrosis

● Fluid accumulation

● Infection

● Pain

● Poor wound healing

● Scarring