Male Breast Reduction: Lowering Confidence Two at a Time

Beach season is upon us, which can only mean one thing for men suffering with gynecomastia- swimming with your shirt on. Gynecomastia, more commonly referred to as “man-boobs”, is not uncommon, as it is estimated to affect somewhere between 40%-60% of the male population. So take a second gents, lift up your shirts and have a long, hard look. If you see something sagging, male breast reduction could be for you!

If you’re afraid of taking your shirt off this beach season, you may want to consider male breast reduction. Unless the beach in question is Coney Island, in which case, who cares if you have man-boobs? Have a Coney Dog and relax.

What is it?

But what exactly does gynecomastia correction surgery entail? First and foremost, it is wise to get a mammogram or breast x-ray prior to surgery, which can rule out any serious, albeit unlikely, causes of gynecomastia such as breast cancer or tumors. Generally, male breast enlargement is due to either excess glandular tissue in the chest or excess fatty tissue in the chest.

In cases where glandular tissue is the primary cause, a small incision will be made around the edge of the areola or somewhere under the arm. From there, the surgeon will extract not only unnecessary tissue, but also excess fat and skin from around the nipple, as well as the bottom and sides of the breast in question. In cases where fatty tissue is the culprit, liposuction may be the only procedure needed. In which case, a small incision is made around the areola or somewhere in the armpit so that a cannula (a tube that drains fluids) can be inserted to suck out the fat.

Who needs it?

If you are feeling self-conscious about your gynecomastia, which in Greek roughly translates to the not-so-subtle “woman- like breasts”, then maybe male breast reduction will work for you. However, if you are feeling self-conscious because you are a 13-year old boy going through puberty, the best idea is to wait it out. Though gynecomastia is common during puberty, it is generally a passing phase that will correct itself over the course of a few months. So hang in there young men, don’t let those Greek jerks get you down by comparing you to women.

Gynecomastia can stem from several different factors, the most obvious being obesity. However, other causes include genetic disorders, side effects from medication, chronic liver disease, aging, and steroid use. Drugs or medication that enhance estrogen or inhibit testosterone synthesis are generally the ones that produce gynecomastia, although drugs as common as alcohol, marijuana, and valium may also contribute to your “woman- like breasts” physique.

The best candidates should be healthy, emotionally stable men of any age. It is ideal that the patient has firm, elastic skin so that it will reshape to the body’s new form. In some cases, surgery may be unnecessary, especially if your condition of gynecomastia is due to lifestyle preferences. If you are obese, for example, simple exercise and weight loss will minimize body fat, which may in turn decrease fatty tissue within the chest. Likewise, if you drink alcohol in excessive amounts or smoke a lot of marijuana (we’re talking High Times subscriber level) it may be best to cease consumption for several weeks to see if any reversal signs of gynecomastia occur.

Benefits

There is a significant difference in before-and-after pictures (check it out online if you’re into that sort of thing). Not only is the surgery permanent, but it is fairly simple and in the most common cases, involves only one incision that is generally well-disguised either on the edge of the areola or under the arm.

However, the biggest benefit is the boost in confidence, seeing as how a lack of confidence is the primary reason why most men get breast reduction surgery in the first place. Get ready to seek out friends who throw lots of pool parties.

Risks?

If you are being treated by a qualified plastic surgeon (i.e. not some guy you met behind Safeway) then complications should be rare or minor at best. However, surgery of any kind can be risky. Possible risks include infection, skin injury, excessive bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia and excessive fluid loss or accumulation. Noticeable scars are possible (especially when major breast reductions are involved) as well as permanent pigment changes around the breast and slightly asymmetric nipples. Temporary effects may include a numbness of the breast or loss of sensation, which could potentially last up to a year.

If you’re afraid of taking your shirt off this beach season, you may want to consider male breast reduction. Unless the beach in question is Coney Island, in which case, who cares if you have man-boobs? Have a Coney Dog and relax.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.

If you are considering male breast redutcion, check out the following links to find specialists in your area: