Don’t Be a Boobie: Male Breast Reduction

If you suffer from gynecomastia, it does not make you any less of a man. However, so many men who have excess breast tissue feel that way. If you feel self-conscious due to your “man boobs,” you might want to look into a male breast reduction surgery.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition where a man will develop extra tissue in the breasts. Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal changes, genetics, drugs (especially steroids), and obesity. Although it seems abnormal and strange, up to 50% of all men are affected by some form or degree of gynecomastia. It can happen at any age, although if it occurs during puberty there is a chance that further changes will help the problem resolve itself.

What Is the Procedure Like?

First, the doctor will need to diagnose your gynecomastia and then treat the root cause. If the hormonal imbalances or other problems are not treated (or at least found out) before the surgery, the extra tissue could simply recur after the surgery.

Male breast reduction is very similar to female breast reduction surgeries. It can include liposuction, where your fat is broken up and then sucked out through a straw-like cannula. Other methods include simply cutting out extra tissue. This excision technique requires a fairly large incision to be made by the areola or the armpit. It is through this cut that the doctor can remove fat and reshape your body. Most operations actually use a combination of excision and liposuction to provide you with the best possible results.

The surgery requires a couple days of down time. Your stitches will be removed in about a week, but you will need to be very careful during that first week. You will have plenty of medication for the pain, and you will likely be confined to your bed or at least very little activity. Your doctor will give you other specific instructions, such as the wearing of compression garments.

If you are tired of hiding your unmanly chest with a oversized t-shirt and have the money to pay for gynecomastia surgery, why wait? Get a smooth chest as soon as you can.