Male Breast Reduction

Kirkland plastic surgeon Dr. Gavin Dry performs male breast reduction to enhance the contour of a man’s chest, removing excess fat and glandular tissue that creates an unwanted feminine appearance. The surgery is sometimes called “gynecomastia correction,” as it corrects this common but bothersome condition that affects both young men and mature gentlemen.

What is Male Breast Reduction?

Male breast reduction is a relatively simple procedure. The surgery can be done using liposuction or a combination of liposuction and surgical skin removal, depending on the severity of the patient’s conditions/symptoms.

Is Male Breast Reduction Right for You?

Gynecomastia is the most common reason men choose breast reduction surgery.  The exact cause of this problem is not known, but most physicians believe it is linked to hormonal changes in the body. Doctors have linked Gynecomastia to factors such as impaired liver function, low testosterone levels, estrogen containing medications and steroids.

Before considering male breast reduction, your plastic surgeon will recommend that you investigate possible causes of Gynecomastia to determine if they can be resolved with the help of a physician.

For many individuals, cosmetic surgery is an appropriate solution to the problem. If you are bothered by excess breast tissue and would like to discuss the options in male breast reduction, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dry in Kirkland.

What Happens During Male Breast Reduction?

The first step in the procedure involves a physical examination to determine the composition of your breast tissue. Excess tissue is often a combination of fat and glandular tissue, both of which can be removed during male breast reduction surgery.

Dr. Dry makes small incisions around the nipple, allowing access for surgical excision and liposuction to remove the unwanted tissue. The operation typically requires one hour with the patient under local or general anesthesia.

How Will I Look and Feel After Male Breast Reduction?

After surgery, you will probably feel sore and tired and experience some swelling and bruising in the chest. Dr. Dry can prescribe medications to help manage pain during this time.

Your chest will be wrapped in gauze and a special compression garment, which should be worn as instructed. Most patients return to their normal routine in one week, but postpone exercise fro about three weeks. Scars will be noticeable during the initial recovery period, but eventually flatten out and blend in (but remain permanent). Dr. Dry will remove stitches within two weeks and monitor your recovery during follow-up visits.

Do you have questions about male breast reduction? Get answers from a board certified Seattle areas plastic surgeon. Contact the office of Kirkland plastic surgeon Dr. Gavin Dry to learn more about male breast reduction.