Gynecomastia Reduction, also known as Male Breast Reduction, is a surgical procedure designed to correct enlarged male breasts by removing excess fat and firm glandular tissue. Gynecomastia Reduction is a short, outpatient surgical procedure that provides immediate and lasting improvements to chest contours, boosting self-confidence.
Top 10 Gynecomastia FAQs
1 – Is Gynecomastia Surgery the Only Way to get Rid of “Man Boobs”?
While mild cases caused purely by weight gain might respond to diet and exercise, true gynecomastia involves dense glandular tissue that usually requires surgery to remove. There are no medications or herbs that can remove developed breast tissue; however, there are many that cause it. Careful, surgical removal by an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon, is currently the best option for gynecomastia reduction yielding safe and predictable results.
2 – What is Gynecomastia Reduction Surgery?
Gynecomastia Reduction usually combines Liposuction to remove excess fat with Direct Glandular Excision to take out the firm tissue behind the nipple. The incisions are discussed next.
3 – Will Male Breast Reduction Leave Scars?
Surgeons utilize a combination of strategic placement and incisions to minimize scarring. Incisions are usually very discreetly placed, often hidden in the armpit and in the natural color change along the lower edge of the areola. Over time, these fade considerably, but may be raised and red initially. Scar treatments and topical measures can help speed the recovery.
4 – Am I a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Ideal candidates are physically healthy, non-smokers, at a stable weight and have realistic expectations. Gynecomastia should also be past the developmental stage, so that hormones have stabilized. Gynecomastia is common (2/3rds of young men), but for about half, the gland naturally reduces as adolescent hormone levels drop to adult levels. This can take 2-3 years.
5 – How Long is the Recovery After Gynecomastia Reduction?
Most men can return to sedentary desk jobs within a week. You will need to wear a compression vest for several weeks to minimize swelling and support the healing skin. Strenuous activity is limited for a few weeks after surgery to minimize swelling, soreness and the risk of bleeding.
6 – When Can I Exercise After Male Breast Reduction?
Light activity, such as walking, can typically be resumed immediately after surgery. You must avoid heavy lifting, strenuous cardio, and direct chest exercises for several weeks. The duration depends on the type of surgery you need, and your surgeon’s routine recovery protocol.
7 – Are the Results of Gynecomastia Surgery Permanent?
Yes, the results are generally long-term. Once the fat cells and glandular tissue are removed, they cannot grow back. However, future significant weight gain, certain medications, or steroid use can cause remaining fat cells to expand or tissue to redevelop.
8 – Can “Man Boobs” Grow Back if I Take Steroids?
Yes, taking anabolic steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs can cause gynecomastia to recur. Some life prolonging medications can also increase the risk of recurrence, so be sure to ask your physician about any medications you take. THC in Marijuana (Cannabis) can block gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), lowering testosterone production. If testosterone drops while estrogen remains steady, it can lead to the development of glandular breast tissue. Adolescents and men over 50 are at higher risk for developing gynecomastia.
9 – How Much Does Gynecomastia Reduction Surgery Cost?
The overall cost varies significantly based on geographic location (e.g., San Francisco Bay Area vs. national averages), the surgeon’s expertise, and whether the procedure requires general anesthesia. Most Plastic Surgeon’s offices will provide price ranges, but the exact cost is available at the time of consultation, after your case has been evaluated.
10 – How Do I Find a Qualified Plastic Surgery Near Me?
You want a qualified, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, who is experienced with male breast reduction. When searching for a surgeon locally or nationally, you can check credentials through the Aesthetic Society (formerly the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery-ASAPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or review physician profiles on the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
You can view a short, 5-minute video on my patient’s journey with Gynecomastia Surgery from initial consideration to consultation and completion, on my San Francisco Breast Gynecomastia Reduction Page and on the ASAPS’s web site here.
Gynecomastia Reduction Consultations
The decision to have Male Breast Reduction is one that men consider for months if not years before acting. If you want to learn how Gynecomastia Reduction can benefit you, give my San Francisco Plastic Surgery Clinic a call at (925) 943-6353. You can get your questions answered, and determine if you want to take the next step.
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