Gynecomastia

Q: How can I tell what the results will look like?

Our practice offers the Vectra 3D Imaging technology , which uses a patient’s real photo to simulate “after” photos. Few practices have this system, and it is the best way to see exactly what your results will look like before opting for surgery. Your doctor can manipulate the reduction with incredible detail, which can help patients decide if they would benefit from other procedures (like liposuction) in addition to a male breast reduction.

Gynecomastia is a medical condition in which men develop excessive breast tissue that looks like “male breasts.” This is usually caused by a malfunction in the endocrine system and is most common in boys who are entering puberty. In fact, almost 70 percent of boys in this age group show signs of gynecomastia to some degree and it is often temporary. An imbalance in hormone levels is usually the cause of gynecomastia in adult males, and is brought by an endocrine system malfunction where there is an abnormal amount of androgen and estrogen quantities in the body. Men need specific ratios of androgen and estrogen levels for proper development, and when this ratio is not balanced gynecomastia can occur.

In some cases, gynecomastia does not go away by itself. Hormones are a major cause of gynecomastia, which is why it often initially presents in both newborns and teenagers, and in temporary cases gynecomastia “reverses” within two years. An overactive thyroid gland can also be a cause of gynecomastia, and can affect boys and men of all ages. Although male breasts are not painful, the mental and emotional distress gynecomastia causes can be severe. A male breast reduction can remove excess male breast tissue.

There are several benefits to a male breast reduction, including:

Enjoying immediate results
An increase in confidence
Being able to comfortably go shirtless, wear tight shirts, and being confident in intimate relationships
Removal of male breasts can improve social health

Gynecomastia is almost always caused by hormonal imbalances or thyroid issues. In rare cases it may be caused by an underlying condition such as testicular cancer. Our surgeons at will identify the root cause of your gynecomastia before recommending any surgical treatment.

Frequenty Asked Questions

How can I tell what the results will look like?Lily2020-04-29T13:06:56-07:00

How can I tell what the results will look like?

Our practice offers the Vectra 3D Imaging technology, which uses a patient’s real photo to simulate “after” photos. Few practices have this system, and it is the best way to see exactly what your results will look like before opting for surgery. Your doctor can manipulate the reduction with incredible detail, which can help patients decide if they would benefit from other procedures (like liposuction) in addition to a male breast reduction.

What if the severity of the gynecomastia is mild?Lily2020-04-29T13:03:23-07:00

What if the severity of the gynecomastia is mild?

In mild cases of gynecomastia and in adolescent boys, gynecomastia may be managed with diet and exercise. Male breast size is known to reduce with routine exercise coupled with a natural reduction of excess hormones that is common in teenage boys. However, grown men with mild gynecomastia who are not successful with exercise may benefit from a male breast reduction procedure.

Will there be scars from a male breast reduction?Lily2020-04-29T13:04:38-07:00

Will there be scars from a male breast reduction?

Incisions for a male breast reduction are generally small and short, making them nearly invisible to the naked eye. It is rare for a breast lift (the removal of excess skin) to be coupled with a male breast reduction, and this approach is generally reserved for patients who have lost a large amount of weight. Breast lifts do usually require longer incisions than a breast reduction.

Are there any additional procedures that complement a male breast reduction?Lily2020-04-29T13:06:00-07:00

Are there any additional procedures that complement a male breast reduction?

Some men opt for liposuction to further reduce their chest size by removing excess adipose tissue. A procedure similar to a breast lift can remove excess tissue and contour the chest to achieve a more masculine appearance. This procedure requires an incision at the lower part of the areola followed by the removal of glandular tissue and skin.

See What People Are Saying

Patient Reviews

“I am so appreciative of her [Dr. Geoghegan] and her caring staff. They took the time to really help and were absolutely wonderful! So thankful I was recommended to her and will definitely be back in the future! I am THRILLED with the results!”

“I finally felt comfortable after meeting Dr. Stutman. He was calm and comforting throughout the process.”

“Dr. Geoghegan is absolutely amazing! I’ve been a patient a little over a year and couldn’t imagine going to anyone else.”

See What People Are Saying

Patient Reviews

“I finally felt comfortable after meeting Dr. Stutman. He was calm and comforting throughout the process.”

“Dr. Geoghegan is absolutely amazing! I’ve been a patient a little over a year and couldn’t imagine going to anyone else.”

More Information on Male Breast Reduction

The timeline for recovery will depend on the patient, the amount of tissue removed, and whether any additional procedures such as removal of skin and liposuction will be performed.

A compression garment should be worn to reduce swelling and bruising. Complete results are seen in approximately three months post-surgery, however patients will begin to see results immediately after the procedure.

Just like any other surgery, it’s important to have someone you trust taking care of you for the first few days after the procedure. Depending on the nature of your work, you may be able to return to some aspects of your daily life within a week of the procedure. Strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 4 – 6 weeks.

Your team at Spectrum Plastic Surgery will provide you with a personalized recovery timeline prior to your procedure.