Are You a Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

Few rarely discuss this common condition, but its effects lead many patients to deal with a lack of self-confidence, inability to go shirtless, embarrassment, and an emasculated sentiment. It may surprise you, but overdeveloped male breasts, also known as gynecomastia, affects 40 to 60% of men.

Depending on the condition, one or both breasts may be affected, and in the majority of cases, no known cause can be discerned. Whatever its cause, overdeveloped male breasts can often be a great source of shame and embarrassment for sufferers. If you are dealing with gynecomastia, then the good news is that you may be a candidate for male breast reduction!

What is Gynecomastia?

To gain a better understanding of whether you are a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery, it is optimal to understand what gynecomastia is. Some may think that gynecomastia is simply excess fat due to being overweight, but this is simply not true. Gynecomastia is caused by excess breast tissue due to a sensitivity to female hormones or imbalance of sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) in the body. No amount of exercise or weight loss will reduce the breast enlargement issues, and in this case, surgery may be required to resolve it.

When to Get Male Breast Reduction

Frequently, those suffering from overdeveloped male breasts may feel awkward and embarrassed having their chests exposed. Thankfully, male breast reduction surgery can easily correct this condition and give the chest area a more masculine appearance. Breast enlargement in males may affect newborn babies, boys in the midst of puberty, and older men, but most cases resolve themselves with time.

If you think you may be dealing with gynecomastia, there are a few symptoms and signs to look out for. Swelling and tenderness in one or both breasts are common symptoms. It is also common for the area of skin surrounding the nipple, AKA areola, to increase in diameter while the chest tissue looks symmetrical. Swelling, breast tenderness, nipple discharge, or any combination of the aforementioned symptoms may be a sign that it is time to schedule an appointment with a physician to discuss your options.

How the Surgery Works

For mild cases, liposuction may be all that is needed to resolve this condition. More moderate cases may require an incision will need to be made around the edge of the areola to extract firmer breast tissue from underneath the nipple. Liposuction may also be performed throughout the chest to achieve any other desired results. In more extreme cases, skin may be necessary to be excised and the nipple relocated. Once surgery is completed, swelling, bleeding, mild scarring, and minimal pain or discomfort can be expected, but should diminish within a few days or weeks. Most surgeries must allow 2 days of downtime, as needed, and many patients are back to work within a week.

Although most cases are not considered serious, increased confidence, peace of mind, and quality of life are reason enough to undergo treatment for the condition. If you think you may be a good candidate for male breast reduction, schedule your consultation today.

About T.A.P.S.: Tampa Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery, better known as T.A.P.S., prides itself on bringing a personal touch to their practice. That’s just one of the reasons they are considered a leading plastic and cosmetic surgery practice in the Greater Tampa Bay area. Spearheaded by Dr. Joseph M. Brown, the physicians at T.A.P.S. combine years of education, experience, and clear communication skills to bring you the results you desire.