Male breast reduction (Gynaecomastia)
Gynaecomastia or prominent male breasts, commonly referred to as ‘man boobs’, can be a distressing condition and is very common, affecting 40 to 60% of men at some time in their lives. Most cases have no cause but it is important to rule out hormone problems and in cases affecting only one breast, the rare problem of male breast cancer. Being overweight can contribute but diet and exercise alone may not eliminate gynaecomastia. Some keen gym regulars may actually exacerbate the condition whilst attempting to improve their chest aesthetics.
How could Male Breast Reduction benefit me?
Whatever its cause, gynaecomastia is often embarrassing for men which can knock body confidence and result in a lack of self-esteem. A reduction will create a flatter, firmer and more contoured chest. Male breast reduction is an operation designed for men who would like to reduce this excess breast tissue.
Our specialist plastic surgeon can:
- Enhance the contours of chest
- TIghten loose skin
- Lift and reposition nipples
- Improve asymmetry
- Help to increase body confidence
This may help embarrassment, emotional distress, low self-esteem and problems with intimacy.
Find out more
Male Breast Reduction Consultation
An initial consultation will give you the opportunity to talk to your Consultant Plastic Surgeon about why you want surgery and what result you would like to achieve. Our surgeon will examine your chest and skin carefully. A full medical history will be taken to assess your suitability for surgery and your options will be discussed. You will need blood tests to rule out any disease as a cause.
The best treatment for you will depend on the size and type of your gynaecomastia. Liposuction or surgery may be advised.
To achieve the best results, breast reduction surgery can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, for example liposuction elsewhere or Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
Male Breast Reduction Procedure
Male breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and takes between one and two and a half hours.
If only liposuction is required then small cuts are made on each breast to allow excess fat to be sucked out witha a metal tube.
If surgery to cut out the gynaecomastia is needed then incisions are carefully made which normally follow the curve of the areola (the darker skin around the nipple). If there is a lot of excess skin it may need to be removed with additional incisions below or to the side of the areolas or below the breast. Excess tissue is then carefully removed to create a firmer more contoured chest and the nipple is repositioned to define your new profile.
After a breast reduction operation there will be some scarring, but this will be minimised as far as possible by our specialist plastic surgeon.
Male Breast Reduction Recovery and Aftercare
After a breast reduction operation you can usually go home the day after surgery.
An appointment with a nurse will be made around ten days after surgery to check your dressings and wounds. It is important to keep your dressing dry to allow the wounds to heal.
Some swelling is normal and will settle over the first few months.
It is usually possible to return to work after the first week or two although if your work involves heavy activity it is advised to avoid this for 6 weeks. Sport and heavy exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks. You should wear a supportive sports vest for 6 weeks.
Follow up appointments will be scheduled to check on your progress.
The effects of gravity, hormones or weight gain in the future can impact the results of male breast reduction.
Risks associated with Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Although the risks are unlikely, it is very important to weigh these up against the benefits of the surgery. A consultation with your surgeon will help you to choose the right procedure and discuss any possible complications.
For further information on the procedure please visit the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) website here.
Before/After Pictures
