Today’s male breast reduction procedures can achieve dramatic results for men with gynecomastia. There are two primary techniques used during a male breast reduction: liposuction and excision. So how do you know which is right for you? First, it is important to understand that the procedures are not interchangeable, as each targets a specific type of breast tissue.
Liposuction:
Liposuction can provide excellent results for men with mild to moderate amounts of fatty tissue along the breasts, restoring a masculine chest. Using a small tube (cannula), the surgeon will place several tiny incisions under the arm. From here, fat tissue is gently removed until the desired chest contour has been achieved. Liposuction is mildly invasive, requires little recovery time, and scarring is easily concealed. However, liposuction cannot address glandular tissue beneath the nipple and areola. Nor does it resolve unwanted, lax skin, which can sag after the unwanted tissue beneath is eliminated.
Excision:
As glandular breast tissue can form a complex network below the nipple and areola, it will require surgical removal. In most cases, a small incision along the outside border of the areola is sufficient for the surgeon to remove excess glandular tissue. Excision can reduce a large volume of glandular tissue and excess skin, significantly improving moderate to extreme gynecomastia, re-contouring the chest and nipple. Minor scarring around the areola is common following an excision procedure although it is normally well hidden in the natural curvature of the chest.
The Combination of Liposuction and Excision:
Most cases of gynecomastia involve a mix of glandular and fatty tissue. For this reason, a combination procedure, using both liposuction and excision, may be required for the best possible results. The only way to find out which technique will work best for you is to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon. After a quick physical assessment, a personalized gynecomastia treatment plan can be established using liposuction, excision, or both.
Dr. Paul Vitenas is Houston’s leading cosmetic surgeon and gynecomastia correction specialist. Over the last 25 years, he has developed a set of innovative techniques to reduce enlarged male breasts in the least invasive manner possible, to restore a flat, pleasing chest. Aside from traditional surgical methods, Dr. Vitenas also uses CoolSculpting, for noninvasive fat elimination, to improve the appearance of gynecomastia.
Contact Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery at (281) 668-7370 to schedule your gynecomastia consultation with Dr. Vitenas. If you are not in the Houston area, speak with a patient coordinator or see our Contact Us page to learn more about our online consultation process.