Male Breast ReductionAbout The Procedure
Male breast reduction is a very common cosmetic procedure among men who have enlarged breasts, a condition known as Gynecomastia. This condition can start in adolescence and may persist throughout adulthood.
This condition can also develop in older men due to steroid abuse, weight gain, hormonal imbalance, or the side effects of certain medications. Male breast reduction surgery can correct the problem of enlarged breasts. Male breasts can be reduced with the help of liposuction as well as surgical removal of breast tissue.
Procedure Description
Excess breast tissue or fat can be removed with liposuction, excision, or a combination of both. The remaining excess skin can be excised.
Best Candidates for Male Breast Reduction
Candidates for Male Breast Reduction surgery must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. Surgery may be discouraged for obese men, or for overweight men who have not first attempted to correct the problem with exercise or weight loss.
Men who drink alcohol in excess or smoke marijuana are usually not considered good candidates for surgery. Alcohol and marijuana, along with anabolic steroids, may cause gynecomastia. Patients are first directed to stop the use of these substances to see if the breast fullness will diminish before surgery is considered an option.
Length of the Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery usually takes one to three hours, depending on the extent of the procedure.
Anesthesia
The procedure is usually done under a general anesthesia but can be done with sedation and local anesthesia.
Inpatient or Outpatient?
Male Breast Reduction surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis.
Possible Side Effects
Possible side effects associated with Male Breast Reduction surgery include discomfort, swelling, and transient altered nipple sensitivity.
Recovery
Drains may be placed at the time of surgery and can be removed in the office after two to five days. Patients may be instructed to wear a compression vest for two months to aid in the skin re-draping process. After Male Breast Reduction surgery, patients can resume most activities within two weeks, and should be able to perform chest exercises and heavy lifting by eight weeks.
Duration of Results
Male Breast Reduction surgery results are typically permanent.
Risks
Risks include infection, skin injury, excessive bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and excessive fluid loss or accumulation. The procedure may also result in noticeable scars, permanent pigment changes in the breast area, or slightly mismatched breasts or nipples. If asymmetry is significant, a second procedure may be performed to remove additional tissue.
Cost
Expect to pay $2,500 to $5,000 for Male Breast Reduction.
Scars
Most of the time Male Breast Reduction surgery can be performed through limited incisions that leave inconspicuous scars.
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