Male Breast Reduction

Gynecomastia, or excess tissue and fat in the pectoral region, can be a source of extreme self-consciousness for men. In fact, it can even lead to depression and severe lack of self-esteem. Fortunately, male breast reduction surgery can address this and eliminate extra fat and tissue in the breasts for a flatter appearance in the chest. Board-certified plastic surgeon Daniel C. Mills, MD offers private, effective treatment for gynecomastia that can help you attain your goals.

Please contact us to schedule a confidential consultation for male breast reduction and gynecomastia treatment at our Laguna Beach, Orange County, California practice.

• Gynecomastia
• Gynecomastia Symptoms
• True Gynecomastia Vs. Pseudogynecomastia
• Male Breast Reduction
• Male Breast Reduction Benefits
• Male Breast Reduction Procedure
• Male Breast Reduction Recovery
• Male Breast Reduction Scars
• Male Breast Reduction Cost

What Is Gynecomastia?

Typically beginning in adolescence, gynecomastia affects 40 to 60 percent of men. The condition appears when excess fat, skin, and in some cases, glandular tissue, accumulates in the breasts and makes them appear larger. Possible causes of gynecomastia include:

• Obesity
• Genetics
• Use of anabolic steroids
• Klinefelter or Gilbert’s Syndrome
• Liver function problems
• The natural aging process
• Use of herbal testosterone additives
• Certain prescription medications and medications that contain estrogen

Dr. Mills can meet with you in a private consultation to discuss all aspects of treatment for gynecomastia. He will be happy to answer all of your questions, and help you determine if male breast reduction is the right procedure for your needs.

What Are the Symptoms of Gynecomastia?

The primary symptom of gynecomastia is the development of enlarged breasts, whether due to excess glandular tissue and/or excess fatty tissue. This can result in excess skin among the breasts as well, leading to stretched tissues and sagginess. In some cases, the shape of the breasts may also appear asymmetrical. Gynecomastia can also cause the breasts to feel somewhat painful and tender in some individuals. In addition to the physical symptoms of gynecomastia, the condition can cause a number of emotional effects in some cases, resulting in extreme feelings of self-consciousness and even contributing to feelings of depression. Fortunately, advanced treatment options are available to correct the effects of gynecomastia and provide a successful solution to this very common condition.

True Gynecomastia Vs. Pseudogynecomastia

There is some variance over the definitions of the term “gynecomastia;” however, the general acceptance of how the condition is defined falls under two separate categories: true gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia. True gynecomastia typically indicates the presence of enlarged breasts in men that is caused by excess glandular tissue. In some cases, excess fatty tissue may accompany excess glandular tissue in patients with true gynecomastia. Pseudogynecomastia usually represents cases where the breasts are enlarged primarily because of excess fatty tissue alone. Ultimately, the aesthetic result is often similar regardless of the specific type of gynecomastia that is present. Dr. Mills offers treatment for both true gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia that can effectively address the condition.

What Is Male Breast Reduction?

Male breast reduction surgery is a procedure designed to directly address the effects of gynecomastia and reduce the size of the breasts. The surgical approach varies among the exact nature of gynecomastia in each individual. For those with excess glandular tissue (true gynecomastia), surgical excision and recontouring of the area is typically the most ideal technique. Liposuction may also be utilized for those with a combination of excess glandular tissue and excess fat in the breasts. For patients with pseudogynecomastia, liposuction may be all that’s necessary to provide optimal results. During the initial, confidential consultation, Dr. Mills will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best approach for your specific needs.  

What Are the Benefits of Male Breast Reduction?

The potential benefits of male breast reduction are numerous for individuals who suffer from gynecomastia. Advantages of this procedure include:

• Removal of excess tissue and/or fat for a flatter, smoother chest
• Long-lasting outcomes
• Improved comfort in certain types of clothing
• Less self-consciousness when removing clothing
• Enhanced self-esteem

What Does the Male Breast Reduction Procedure Involve?

The male breast reduction procedure typically begins with an incision made around the areola (the dark-skinned region around the nipple). Excess fat, tissue, and/or glandular tissue will be removed from the breasts, and liposuction may be used to eliminate extra fat. In cases of gynecomastia where the problem is being caused primarily by excess fat accumulation, Dr. Mills may need only to perform liposuction to achieve the desired results.

Male breast reduction surgery can be performed as an outpatient under general anesthesia. The entire procedure usually takes under two hours to complete.

What Can I Expect During the Male Breast Reduction Recovery Process?

Some bruising and swelling can be expected after male breast reduction; however, these side effects can be managed with medication. A compression garment may be necessary after surgery to aid in the recovery process. Heavy lifting and/or strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks following male breast reduction surgery. Most patients can resume normal daily routines just a few days after the procedure.

How Noticeable Are the Scars After Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

The visibility of scars following male breast reduction surgery will depend on which techniques were utilized and the extent of treatment necessary for the best results. For those who are treated with liposuction alone, the incisions are typically quite small and can often be placed in relatively inconspicuous areas, leading to very minimal signs of scarring. Those who have excess glandular tissue and excess skin removed may have lengthier incisions; however, scarring from incisions can often be minimized in these cases as well. Although some degree of scarring is inevitable, Dr. Mills works diligently to lessen the appearance of scars, and they will likely fade to some degree over time.

What Is the Cost of Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

The ultimate cost of male breast reduction surgery varies from patient to patient, depending on the customized treatment plan and the individual’s specific needs. While the American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates the average cost to be in the $3525 range, this figure typically represents the surgeon’s fee only and not associated fees such as those involving the operating facility, anesthesia, the complexity of the procedure, and other expenses. Once you have had the initial consultation with Dr. Mills, a member of our staff will produce an estimate of the total cost of the procedure and go over it with you. Our practice accepts a variety of payment methods, and we work with a number of reputable healthcare lending agencies that offer convenient financing plans for qualified applicants. We will be happy to assist you in finding the best option for your needs and your budget.

Male breast reduction surgery is a very effective procedure to reduce the effects of gynecomastia and help you enhance your self-esteem. Please contact Dr. Mills for more information on gynecomastia and male breast reduction surgery.

For additional information on body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and the many other treatments available from Dr. Mills, please visit our main website at www.danmillsmd.com.