How Does Gynecomastia Surgery Work?

Do you feel uncomfortable wearing fitted shirts and avoid activities like swimming because of large male breasts? Breasts large enough to affect your confidence are called gynecomastia. This condition can develop for many reasons, but it can keep you from enjoying your favorite activities and make you feel self-conscious. Gynecomastia surgery removes excess breast volume and shapes a flatter, more masculine chest. 

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the scientific term for enlarged male breasts. Many factors contribute to this condition. One of the most common causes is hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty. Many young men develop gynecomastia during puberty, and it may or may not go away. Other causes include obesity, genetics, medical conditions, and recreational or prescription drugs. Dr. Greenberg and his team will work with you to understand the factors contributing to your issue.

How Does Gynecomastia Surgery Work?

Dr. Greenberg may perform male breast reduction in several ways. If most of your excess breast volume comes from fatty tissue, liposuction can effectively remove it. Breast tissue will often require excision, and many men will benefit from a combination of the two. The procedure may also reposition your areolas to the appropriate placement on your chest. 

Only a consultation and physical examination will allow Dr. Greenberg to plan your gynecomastia surgery. He will explain the details of your procedure, including where you will have incisions and the techniques he will use. 

What is Recovery Like After Gynecomastia Surgery?

Some bruising and swelling usually occur after gynecomastia surgery. A compression garment will help control swelling and support the area while it heals. If your job does not require much physical activity, you can often return to work after about a week. When you can resume your exercise routine depends on the details of your procedure. 

Scars from gynecomastia surgery will look red after surgery. However, they will fade to pink and then be closer to your natural skin tone over the following months. You will receive instructions on how to minimize the appearance of any scars you may have after the procedure.

Am I a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?

Male breast reduction is performed on healthy adults who have achievable goals and are bothered by enlarged breast tissue. Good candidates for the procedure find that the appearance of their chest affects their confidence and activities. The underlying medical causes for your gynecomastia should be determined before the procedure. 

What Results Will I See With Gynecomastia Surgery?

Swelling in the chest will begin to resolve after the first week. You will notice immediately that your chest looks more masculine, but swelling can take several weeks to resolve and allow you to appreciate your full results. Most people find that gynecomastia results last a lifetime. However, factors like weight gain or medical conditions may affect these results over time.

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about gynecomastia surgery, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Scott A. Greenberg and his team at Winter Park Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Winter Park, FL (serving the Central Florida area). (407) 644-3137

*Individual results may vary