Gynecomastia
In-Depth Guide

Gynecomastia (in pop culture sometimes referred to as “man-boobs” or “moobs”) is a medical term that describes the condition of enlarged or overdeveloped breasts on a man. Gynecomastia affects approximately 40 to 60% of men. It can affect just only one side or both. While certain medications, drugs, or medical problems can cause breast development in men, the majority of cases do not have a known cause.

The correction of gynecomastia (also called a male breast reduction) is a surgical procedure that reduces breast size, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer and with a more masculine contour.

Gynecomastia surgery does the following:

• Removes unwanted excess breast tissue in men
• Restores a more normal shape and contour for a masculine chest

Please call our office to find out the cost of gynecomastia surgery.  By dividing the cost of the surgery into manageable monthly payments, financing plans can put this surgery within the reach of many people who may have thought otherwise.

Correction of gynecomastia usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of work required.

Depending on the severity of the gynecomastia, various techniques can be performed. When there is only minimal excess breast tissue, liposuction can be performed through tiny incisions.

Men with larger breasts or the presence of more distinct bulges will require the breast tissue to be cut out. The actual location of the incision is variable depending on the location and size of the breast tissue. The incisions are usually made strategically in a place where it is inconspicuous, either on the edge of the areola (the darker skin area around the nipple) or in the under arm area. Major reductions that require removal of large amounts of skin and tissue may require longer, less hidden, incisions.

After the incision is made, the excess breast tissue and skin are removed. The chest is carefully sculpted as much as possible to improve the contour. Once the incisions are closed, gauze and a compression bandage or garment are applied to help with the healing.

After surgery, your chest will be bruised, swollen and uncomfortable for a few days after surgery. Any discomfort you feel can be controlled with medications.

Because of the swelling and bruising from the surgery, you may wonder at first if there has been any improvement at all. Continue to wear the compression bandage or garment to help reduce the swelling. The swelling will be significantly decreased in a week or two, but it may take a few months before the final results are apparent.

Most patients are back to work or school in 3 to 10 days. Although it is important to walk, you should avoid strenuous activity, including bending, jogging, heavy housework, sex, or any activity that risks a blow to the chest. It will take about a month before you’re back to all your normal activities.

Complications are usually rare but can occur after any surgery.

Bleeding

You can decrease the risk of bleeding after surgery by carefully following our instructions and avoiding any strenuous activity, lifting, pulling and pushing after the surgery.

Asymmetry

Asymmetry means differences in appearance between the left and right sides.  Most asymmetries are present before the surgery because it is very common to have differences between the two sides in regards to size, shape, appearance and amount of excess skin.

Contour Irregularities

Although every effort is made to give a smooth contour, sometimes contour irregularities will exist.  A lot has to do with the way the tissues heal after the surgery and how much scar tissue develops in the weeks after the surgery.

Q: How much time is required for the correction of gynecomastia?
A: The surgery requires approximately 1-3 hours. As with all surgeries, the amount of time needed varies from patient to patient.

Q: Is it an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
A: Outpatient.

Q: What are some common side effects?
A: Common side effects from correction of gynecomastia include temporary swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort.

Q: What is the recovery time?
A: Most patients are able to return to work or school in 3 to 10 days

Q: How long do the results last?
A: The results from the correction of gynecomastia are permanent. However, the appearance of the chest can change from weight fluctuations, aging, certain medications or drugs, and other medical problems.

Our surgeons would love to meet and go over everything you need to know about gynecomastia surgery with you. Just give us a call at 951-699-9201 or use the link below. We look forward to meeting you soon!