Breast

Male Breast Reduction

Gynecomastia, often called “man boobs” can be an embarrassing condition for men. It is characterized by excess glandular tissue and localized fat, resulting in enlarged or over-developed breasts in men. For patients who suffer with this condition, Dr. Christopher Schaffer at Schaffer Plastic Surgery in Birmingham performs male breast reduction surgery to reduce breast size, flatten chest contours, and create a more masculine-looking chest.

Causes of Gynecomastia

Men of any age can develop gynecomastia. It is triggered by a decrease in the amount of testosterone in relation to estrogen. The cause could be anything that reduces or blocks the effects of testosterone or increases estrogen.

Causes of enlarged breasts in men include:

  • Natural changes in hormone levels: This condition is common during puberty, in which case it typically resolves on its own within 6 months to 2 years. It is also prevalent in the 50 to 69 age group, affecting at least 1 in every 4 men.
  • Medications: Gynecomastia may be a side effect of certain types of medication, including heart medicine, anti-anxiety drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, heartburn medications, antibiotics, and chemotherapy.
  • Health conditions: Certain health conditions that affect hormonal balance can cause gynecomastia, including hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), kidney failure and cirrhosis of the liver.

Procedure for Male Breast Reduction

Male breast reduction surgery may be performed with liposuction, excision or a combination of both techniques. When the problem is caused by excess fatty tissue, liposuction alone may be sufficient to create a more masculine appearance of the chest. With advances in liposuction technology, techniques today are far less invasive with faster, easier recovery than in the past.

In a male breast reduction liposuction procedure, small incisions are made on each side of the chest, usually either within the armpit or along a portion of the areola. Excess fatty tissue is removed through these incisions using thin hollow tubes known as cannulas to sculpt a natural-looking, more masculine chest contour.

Surgical excision techniques are used when excess glandular tissue and skin must be removed to correct the problem. Excision is also necessary to reduce or reposition the nipple or areola. Incisions are typically placed around the edge of the areola or in the natural creases of the chest.

Male Breast Reduction Cost

Schaffer Plastic Surgery accepts CareCredit, a healthcare credit card designed for your health and wellness needs. It's a way to pay for the costs of many treatments and procedures and allows you to make convenient monthly payments. Apply today.

Benefits of a Male Breast Reduction Surgery in Birmingham

For patients with gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery can have both physical and emotional benefits. The procedure can correct enlarged, saggy male breasts and allow the pectoral muscles to look firm and trim. Instead of buying over large shirts to attempt to hide the problem, patients can wear clothes that fit after the surgery.

As for emotional benefits, you will no longer suffer the embarrassment of having larger male breasts and all this condition brings, physically and personally. You can take your shirt off in public without feeling self-conscious, and generally have a higher level of confidence in your appearance. Get in touch with Schaffer Plastic Surgery to learn more about male breast reduction in Birmingham, AL.