The occurrence of enlarged breasts in males is more common than most people think. Gynecomastia, or enlarged breasts, is common in adolescent boys, older men, and overweight men. It is understandable that gynecomastia impacts the men who suffer from it, both emotionally and socially, especially given societal ideas of what the male body should look like.
Many men who suffer from gynecomastia attempt to hide or ignore the condition. For these individuals, male breast reduction surgery may offer a solution.
When to Consider Male Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia, of which an absolute cause is unknown, as an indication for male breast reduction surgery, can be identified by the following:
- Excess breast tissue - combination of fat and glandular tissue
- Sensitive or tender chest tissue
Your Male Breast Reduction Procedure with Dr. Albear
The procedure itself takes about 2 hours, but Dr. Albear may ask that you receive a general check-up to better understand what may have caused your condition. Additionally, he may recommend that you have an MRI or mammogram so that he can get a sense for the composition of the breast.
Before and After Male Breast Reduction, Tampa FL area
If your Dr. Albear needs to focus mostly on removing glandular tissue, then he may use excision when performing your breast reduction. However, if he needs to remove fat and glandular tissue, then he will likely use both liposuction and excision. For the excision approach, Dr. Albear may make the incision under the arm, or the areola, through which he will remove the glandular tissue and fat. Next, liposuction will be conducted by using the same incisions used for the excision. Dr. Albear inserts a cannula, or thin tube, into the incision and removes the fat by way of a vacuum.
If Dr. Albear decides that only liposuction is needed, then he will make a small incision; again, either around the edge of the areola or under the arm.
What Happens After Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Most men are back to work within 1 week following breast reduction. It is not uncommon to experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, conditions that can be managed with pain medication. Dr. Albear will go over aftercare instructions specific to you and your surgery.
If you would like to learn more about male breast reduction surgery, please contact Pasco County plastic surgeon Dr. Albear's Wesley Chapel office. His plastic surgery practice is conveniently located to serve the greater Tampa Bay area.
