What is Male Breast Reduction Surgery (Gynecomastia surgery)?
Various factors such as lifestyle, eating habits, certain medications, agricultural practices, and the natural ageing process could potentially contribute to the development of enlarged male breasts. Both weight gain and hormonal fluctuations (often linked with obesity), in addition to alcohol and substance use, contribute to higher rates of gynecomastia.
Male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that addresses enlarged or overdeveloped male breast tissue. The surgery involves removing excess glandular tissue and fat from the chest area. Depending on the patient’s breast condition and goals, a liposuction, surgical excision, or both can be performed. As the treated area heals, the breasts become flatter and firmer.
Understanding gynecomastia
Gynecomastia tends to be most prevalent among adolescent boys and men aged 50-70. While young boys can develop gynecomastia, the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends waiting until the body or breast tissue has fully developed and stopped growing before considering gynecomastia surgery.
Understanding the triggers of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can stem from a complex interplay of factors, each contributing to its development, including:
Obesity and Hormonal Shifts
Obesity is associated with excess body fat, which can accumulate in the chest region. Hormonal balance plays a crucial role. While testosterone is the “male” hormone and estrogen is its “female” counterpart, both exist in all genders. The body’s equilibrium of these hormones must align within a typical range for each gender. Hormonal imbalances can lead to varying outcomes, such as excess hair in women or enlarged breasts in men.
Illnesses and Health Conditions
Certain health issues can contribute to or directly cause gynecomastia. Conditions like obesity, chromosomal disorders, kidney failure, tumors, cirrhosis, malnutrition, hypogonadism, and hyperthyroidism have known links to the development of enlarged male breasts.
Medications and Altered Hormone Levels
Some medications may lead to gynecomastia as an unintended side effect. Steroids, antibiotics, heart medications, AIDS medication, anti-androgens, antidepressants, and ulcer medications are among these medications. It’s crucial to discuss the possible connection between your male breast condition and any prescribed medications with your medical team.
Substance Use and Alcohol Consumption
Substance abuse, including alcohol consumption, poses various health risks, including the development of gynecomastia. Alcohol can alter hormone levels, BMI, and fat-to-muscle ratios, potentially contributing to enlarged breasts in males. Narcotics like marijuana, amphetamines, methadone, and heroin have also been associated with gynecomastia.
How is gynecomastia diagnosed?
The enlargement of male breast tissue characterises Gynecomastia. It is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history assessment, and additional tests. During the examination, a doctor will assess the size and firmness of the breast tissue, as well as any pain or tenderness. They may also ask about factors like medications, family history, and any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to gynecomastia. In some cases, blood tests or imaging studies might be recommended to rule out other potential causes and ensure an accurate diagnosis of gynecomastia.
Why men choose male breast reduction surgery for gynecomastia
Some reasons why men choose this surgical option include:
- Relief from physical discomforts associated with enlarged male breasts: Enlarged breasts can lead to discomfort and physical limitations, affecting daily activities and exercise. Surgery may help alleviate these discomforts.
- More masculine chest appearance: Gynecomastia can disrupt the shape of the chest, leading to a less masculine appearance. Male breast reduction surgery reshapes the chest by removing excess glandular tissue and fat.
Suitable candidates for surgery
Male breast reduction surgery (gynecomastia surgery) is designed to address enlarged breasts in men. During your consultation, your specialist plastic surgeon will assess your overall health and expectations. In general, you are a suitable candidate for the procedure if:
- You have excessive breast tissue.
- You are experiencing physical discomfort, including pain or sensitivity, due to enlarged breasts.
- The size of your breasts is affecting your daily activities or exercise routine.
- You will commit to a healthy lifestyle after male breast reduction surgery, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the results.
- You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
- You are a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery.
Before undergoing male breast reduction surgery, it’s recommended to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in gynecomastia treatment. They can assess your individual condition, discuss your goals, and provide personalised recommendations.
Reasons for male breast reduction
Male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is chosen for different reasons. Here are some:
- Physical comfort: Enlarged breast tissue can cause discomfort, pain, and sensitivity. Gynecomastia surgery can alleviate these physical issues, allowing you to engage in activities without discomfort.
- Increased mobility: After the removal of excess breast tissue, you may notice an improvement in your mobility. Engaging in exercises or sports can also become more comfortable.
- Body symmetry: Male breast reduction surgery can change symmetry. The procedure can also make the chest more masculine by removing excess breast tissue.
- Permanent results: Once the excess breast tissue is removed, the results of male breast reduction surgery are generally permanent. However, you will need to commit to a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle to maintain the results.
Gynecomastia surgery procedure
- Male breast reduction surgery alters the breast shape and removes excess fat and tissue through surgical incisions and/or liposuction.
- You will be put under general anesthesia, and tiny incisions will be made underneath the folds of your breast.
- With a liposuction approach (either on its own but more often combined with surgical reduction of redundant skin), a small cannula is inserted into the area to break up the fat cells in the breast tissues whilst removing them using suction-assisted technology.
For more information about the surgical aspects of male breast reduction, visit our gynecomastia surgery page.
One of the reasons why men choose male breast reduction surgery is because results are typically permanent.
Male breast reduction surgery permanently removes excess glandular tissue and fat from your breasts. Once the excess tissue and fat are removed, they do not come back. However, it’s important to keep in mind that factors such as ageing, significant weight fluctuations, and hormonal changes can affect the appearance of your breasts.
Surgery can help reduce, firm, and change the appearance of your chest area.
Surgery for gynecomastia can be performed in two key ways, which can also be done simultaneously.
- The first way is by male breast liposuction, but this is not always suitable for all patients.
- The other consists of breast tissue excision, which is usually required if there is a lot of excess skin along with fat and glandular tissues
Depending on your breast condition and goals, your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
