What is male breast reduction?
Gynecomastia is the condition responsible for the enlargement or overdevelopment of breast tissues in men.
The term “gynecomastia” strictly refers to excess breast glandular tissue, however men with breast enlargement due to fatty deposits (pseudo-gynecomastia) may have a similar presentation. Both conditions may lead to excess skin.
Breast enlargement commonly occurs in males during puberty. Most cases are temporary and self-limiting, but in a minority of cases, breast enlargement does not resolve. Gynecomastia can also be caused by medications, marijuana use, anabolic steroids, and other medical conditions.
Male breast reduction, or gynecomastia surgery, is the surgical intervention for removing excess fat, excess breast tissue or excess skin in males.
Dr. Azzi has co-authored a book chapter on gynecomastia and on the various treatments of this condition (see reference below).
Who is the right candidate for breast reduction surgery (gynecomastia surgery)?
If you have excess breast tissue, fat or skin, you may be an ideal candidate for breast reduction surgery (gynecomastia surgery).
A thorough medical examination must be performed to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Workup for medical causes is sometimes necessary before proceeding with surgery (blood work, referral to an endocrinologist or urologist, etc.)
What does the procedure consist of?
The male breast reduction procedure is normally performed in an outpatient setting using general anesthesia or local anesthesia.
If there is minimal glandular (breast) tissue and excess skin, liposuction alone may be sufficient to treat gynecomastia. Patients who have significant breast tissue, liposuction is combined with a small incision below the areola to surgically remove the excess gland. Breast tissue is firm and can’t be properly aspirated with liposuction alone.
In severe cases with excess skin, additional skin excision under the breast is required to remove the redundant skin and achieve the desired aesthetic look.
To get more information, please refer to the before/after picture gallery courtesy of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons). We also invite you to refer to this video on Gynecomastia surgery (Click on the “Male Breast” tab and then “Gynecomastia Surgery”).
How much does a gynecomastia procedure cost?
The cost of a gynecomastia procedure generally depends on the treatment plan that is developed for you and on the severity of your presentation. During the consultation, Dr. Alain Azzi will perform a physical exam and will discuss your specific needs. A member from our patient care coordination department will subsequently provide you with the details of the cost of a gynecomastia procedure in Montreal.
Call us today to book a consultation.
We offer in person and virtual plastic surgery consultation.
1-Cugno S, Azzi A. ‘Congenital Breast Anomalies’, in Farhadieh R (ed.) Plastic Surgery: Principles & Practice 1e. Elsevier, chapter 37