The term “gynecomastia” refers to excess male breast tissue. It is a common condition and always presents with an abundance of chest fat mixed with varying amounts of breast tissue. When only a small amount of breast tissue exists and the problem is primarily related to excessive fat, liposuction alone usually provides a satisfactory result. However, when breast tissue is a significant contributor to the breast volume, a combination of liposuction and direct excision of the breast tissue becomes necessary. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Eric Okamoto, can reduce the effects of gynecomastia with male breast reduction procedures designed to help you achieve your goals.

Gynecomastia Treatment Candidates
Gynecomastia Treatment Benefits
Gynecomastia vs. Pseudogynecomastia
Male Breast Reduction Recovery
Gynecomastia Treatment Scars

Am I a Candidate for Gynecomastia Treatment?

Men who notice excess fat and/or tissue in the chest area may be candidates for male breast reduction. The development of breasts in men (gynecomastia) is often due to a hormonal change or imbalance, leading to the growth of breast tissue in the area. Some men may suffer from a similar condition, called pseudogynecomastia, which is an accumulation of fat in the chest area. Both pseudogynecomastia and true gynecomastia can be treated with male breast reduction, although pseudogynecomastia typically only requires liposuction. In a consultation, Dr. Okamoto can conduct a thorough examination and determine which approach can best resolve your concerns.

What Are the Benefits of Gynecomastia Treatment?

Male breast reduction has many advantages for those who suffer from gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia. These benefits can include:

Improved confidence
Elimination of excess glandular tissue in the chest region
Removal of fatty tissue in the chest
Excision of loose, excess skin in the chest area
Elevated and/or reshaped nipple-areola complex

Many of Dr. Okamoto’s patients have reported that the improved contour to their chest following male breast reduction has helped them gain self-esteem and confidence, especially during activities that do not require them to wear a shirt, such as water sports.

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What Are the Differences Between True Gynecomastia and Pseudogynecomastia?

True gynecomastia involves the development of excess glandular tissue or breast tissue, but some men may experience a buildup of fat in the chest area, which can look very similar. If excess glandular/breast tissue is not present, the condition is referred to as pseudogynecomastia. Thankfully, the cause of enlarged male breasts does not determine whether or not gynecomastia treatment can be performed. Dr. Okamoto can help restore a more masculine contour to the chest, regardless of whether it is stubborn fat or the development of excess breast tissue that is causing your concern. Surgical tissue removal is required to perform male breast reduction for patients with true gynecomastia, but Dr. Okamoto can often achieve the desired result with liposuction alone when treating pseudogynecomastia.

What Can I Expect During Male Breast Reduction Recovery?

Most patients are able to return to certain daily activities a few days after male breast reduction has been performed. Some mild bruising and/or swelling may occur, but should diminish shortly over time. To assist with the healing process, some patients may need to wear a compression garment post-operatively for a few days. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery.

Will I Have Scars from Gynecomastia Surgery?

Although scarring should be expected after male breast reduction, Dr. Okamoto is careful to place surgical incisions in a way that helps ensure your scars can be less noticeable, once healed. If liposuction alone is needed to perform the procedure, incisions are typically very small. These incisions tend to heal well and are often barely noticeable after they have fully healed. When glandular tissue removal is necessary, Dr. Okamoto generally places an incision along the outside border of the areola, enabling the scar to blend well with the darker color of the areola, once healed. Taking care to follow the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Okamoto can also encourage proper healing so that scars can become less visible over time. In the end, though, most patients feel that the benefits afforded by gynecomastia surgery outweigh the concern of any noticeable scarring.

Contact Dr. Eric Okamoto

For more information, or to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss male breast reduction and gynecomastia treatment, please contact Dr. Eric Okamoto.

*Individual results may vary

Gynecomastia – Male Breast Reduction