Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia or enlargement of male breast tissue is a common condition in men of all ages. Causes include weight gain, hormonal changes and use of steroids and specific drugs. The condition is resistant to diet and exercise and can cause discomfort and difficulty with self-esteem. Some patients can be treated with liposuction alone with minimal scarring. Those with more excessive, thicker breast tissue may require liposuction in combination with skin reduction and tightening.

Prior to surgery we conduct a physical assessment and review medical history for any signs of underlying medical causes of breast enlargement. You and your doctor determine the best course of treatment to achieve desired results.

Recovery

Surgery is generally performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery varies according the extent the procedure. A compression garment is worn for the first week. The compression garment may need to be worn longer for optimal results and this will be determined and discussed with you by our surgeon. Breast and chest swelling will increase over the first few days, and then subside over the next week. In most cases, swelling and discoloration resolves in two weeks. Patients generally return to work and moderate activity in week. Running and lower-body activity can resume in two weeks or so. Upper-body activity can increase gradually. Patients undergoing liposuction only without excision of breast tissue may regain full arm and torso motion in two to three weeks. Those with the excision of breast tissue as well may take a month to six weeks to resume heavy lifting and full upper-body movement.

To view before and after photos

For more information about gynecomastia surgery