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Breast Reduction - Male

Gynecomastia is a condition that affects 40 to 60 percent of men. It is a term for overdeveloped breasts in men. One or both breasts may be affected. There is no known cause in the majority of cases.

Breast reduction surgery for gynecomastia can help. This procedure involves removal of fat and glandular tissue, and possibly skin, from breasts resulting in better contour of the upper body.

Your initial consultation with a qualified physician will determine if you are a candidate for the surgery. The procedure is discouraged for overweight men who have not attempted to correct the problem through diet and exercise. Alcohol and anabolic steroids may cause this condition and the patient is directed to stop the use of these to diminish their effects before a determination can be made on surgery. Your surgeon will determine the best surgical approach to suit your needs.

This surgery is usually performed on outpatient basis and can be performed under general or local anesthesia. New liposuction techniques have made it possible to perform the surgery under local anesthesia in 1 to 2 hours. An incision is made either around the areola or under the arm. Excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed from the breast. If the problem is caused by excessive fatty tissue, liposuction will likely be used to remove excess fat. In some cases skin may be removed and a drain inserted to remove excess fluids. To reduce swelling, you may be required to wear a compression garment for about a week. You will begin walking around the day of surgery and can return to work in 1 to 2 days following surgery. Stitches will be removed in one to two weeks. Physical activity will be restricted for approximately four weeks to avoid blows to the chest area.

When this surgery is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and minor. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there are risks. You will be provided an informed consent sheet during your consultation. We strongly encourage each patient to carefully review these risks and discuss them with your surgeon prior to proceeding with surgery.

Gynecomastia surgery can enhance your appearance and self-confidence. Prior to, in preparation for, and during your postoperative period the surgeons and staff of The Face & Body Center will be available to discuss any questions you may have by calling 866-939-4999 or 939-9999 in the Jackson Metro Area.