What is Gynecomastia?
Male breast reduction for enlarged breast tissue, also called gynecomastia, is designed to give the patient a flatter chest with a more masculine contour.
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How Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
Gynecomastia Procedure
Are You a Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?
Health Conditions and Gynecomastia
Explore Our Results
Preparing for Surgery
Recovery from Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Patient Safety Matters to Us
Confidence in Body Image A Masculine Chest
Gynecomastia FAQ
Expertise
How Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
Surgery to reduce the quantity of male breast tissue is usually done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia but can also be done with sedation and local anesthesia. Excess breast tissue and fat can be removed using either liposuction, excision (cutting the offending tissue out), or a combination of both. Excess skin may also be removed, particularly for men who require surgery after a significant weight loss. The surgery itself takes about one hour to complete. Our Denver gynecomastia surgery patients typically go home several hours after surgery to be cared for by a friend or relative.
Gynecomastia Procedure
Preparing for Surgery
To prepare your body for surgery, your most important job is to maintain good health by eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, getting proper rest, and engaging in a regular exercise routine. As with any surgery, it is vital that you are in good general health to reduce risk. Your medical history will be reviewed, along with the medications you take to help ensure the procedure is safe.
Recovery from Male Breast Reduction Surgery
The post-surgical symptoms include swelling, soreness, a tight sensation, and some pain in the breast area. These symptoms are easily managed with pain medication and diminish within a few days. A compression vest or chest wrapping is usually needed for a week or two after surgery. Light activities may be started in seven to ten days. Aerobic activities can often be resumed in about four weeks. The total result of the breast reduction surgery will be visible after about six weeks when the swelling has subsided.
Gynecomastia FAQs
Why Do Men Develop Gynecomastia?
When men develop an excess of breast tissue, it may be due to various factors, including:
- Hormone imbalance
- The use of certain medications
- Cancer treatments
- The use of recreational drugs
- Various health conditions that impact hormones
- The constant use of various herbal supplements
Is Insurance for Male Breast Reduction Available?
Male breast reduction may be covered by some, but not all, insurance carriers. Currently, we are not accepting new insurance patients. If you would like to seek reimbursement for the procedure, we are happy to provide you with the required medical codes for self-submission. We can assist you to obtain financing for this procedure. We are affiliated with companies that offer financing for cosmetic surgery.
Expertise
Among his many surgical credentials, Denver plastic surgeon Dr. Slenkovich has also written or edited several medical articles on breast reduction and gynecomastia. Many of his articles can be found on emedicine.com.
