What is male breast reduction?
Male breast reduction is a surgical procedure which can improve the appearance of an enlarged male breast, a condition known as Gynecomastia. This excess fat, breast tissue, and skin may be removed to create a firmer, flatter appearance.
What causes Gynecomastia?
While all men have some breast tissue on their chest, at times it can grow larger and become more noticeable. This can be caused by carrying extra weight, hormonal changes (occurring in puberty and again later in life), endocrine gland dysfunction, and certain medications.
Who may experience Gynecomastia?
While Gynecomastia is prominent in adolescent and older men, due to hormonal changes, it is possible for extra breast tissue to occur at any age.
When is a male breast reduction necessary?
Often, Gynecomastia will resolve on its own, especially in adolescents. When the condition lasts more than 12 months, it may be more likely to require surgical intervention to remove the excess tissue. At your consultation, Dr. Vitenas will discuss your Gynecomastia options and the necessity for surgery.
Who is a good candidate for male breast reduction?
Male breast reduction candidates should be in overall good health, with no active disease or pre-existing conditions, and with realistic expectations of the surgical experience. The cause of Gynecomastia should be determined, if possible, prior to surgery.
What should I expect during a consultation for male breast reduction?
During your consultation for male breast reduction, Dr. Vitenas will review your complete medical history, discuss your goals, and answer your questions about Gynecomastia. You will be able to review pre-op and post-op photos of previous male breast reduction patients. At this time, Dr. Vitenas will also discuss your possible surgical outcomes, and all details of the procedure including the technique, recovery, risks, costs, and financing options.
How is a male breast reduction performed?
Male breast reduction is done on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia, usually taking between one and two hours. Using liposuction, the excess breast tissue will be removed through several very small (1cm) incisions. For a larger volume of glandular tissue and skin, Dr. Vitenas will use extraction to sculpt and re-contour the chest. A combination of both liposuction and tissue extraction is often used.
Where does Dr. Vitenas perform male breast surgery?
Dr. Vitenas’ male breast reduction procedures are performed in one of his two, private operating suites at the Houston Surgery Center. Located in the same building as Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, the Houston Surgery Center is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare (AAAHC).
What should I expect immediately after surgery?
There may be some minor bruising after surgery; this will subside in just a couple of days. Swelling will appear over the first few days after your procedure and can continue for several weeks. Compresses and support garments may help reduce some of the swelling.
Is a male breast reduction painful?
After your procedure, there may some aching in the chest. Dr. Vitenas will prescribe appropriate pain medications to keep you comfortable during this time.
How long is the recovery from a male breast reduction?
Recovery from male breast reduction surgery usually takes about two weeks, depending on a patient’s health conditions and the surgery technique. You will be ready to return to work or school in about a week, sometimes less. After two weeks, light exercise can begin, and more strenuous activity can be resumed after one month.
When will I see my surgical results?
Some results will be evident over the first couple weeks, as the swelling begins to subside, but your final results may take up to 6 months. You may continue to notice improvements in the chest contour for up to 12 months after your procedure, as the body finishes healing.
Will I experience any scarring with a male breast reduction?
The incisions are normally made around the areola or under the arm, masking the appearance of scars. With the appropriate post-operative scar management, your male breast reduction scarring will be minimal.
What are the risks or possible complications of male breast reduction?
The potential risks or complications associated with male breast reduction may include bleeding, infection, hematoma, and delayed wound healing.
If I have a male breast reduction, will my Gynecomastia return?
If you suffer from hereditary Gynecomastia, the surgical results will be long lasting. However, if the cause of Gynecomastia remains, such as certain medications or a hormonal imbalance, the residual breast tissue may again grow.
Will insurance cover the cost of my male breast reduction?
Surgery for Gynecomastia is not generally covered by insurance. To assist with costs, Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery takes a variety of payment methods, such as cash, money order, and all major credit cards. We are also happy to offer 12 month, interest free financing for your procedures through CareCredit.