Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)

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Gynecomastia treatment from an experienced surgeon

It’s estimated that gynecomastia, a condition that causes enlarged male breasts, affects over 40% of adult men. If you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable because of excess tissue on your chest, we want you to know that you have options. Male breast reduction, or surgery to remove this excess tissue, is an effective, lasting way to restore a flatter, more masculine chest.

Bellevue cosmetic surgeon Dr. Alex Sobel is highly experienced in male chest contouring procedures and has helped hundreds of men in the Seattle area address the effects of gynecomastia and regain the confidence they deserve.

What causes gynecomastia?

Typically, gynecomastia is the result of a hormonal imbalance that results in the development of excessive glandular breast tissue. It can also be caused by genetics or lifestyle factors; in many of these cases, it is excess fatty tissue rather than breast tissue. Gynecomastia can affect one or both sides of the chest and can range from mild to severe. In many cases, gynecomastia has no known cause, making it particularly difficult with exercise, medicine or supplements.

What to expect from male breast reduction surgery

There are several different approaches that Dr. Sobel uses for male breast reduction surgery, depending on a patient’s concerns, anatomy, and goals. During your consultation, Dr. Sobel will discuss with you the best options to achieve your personal goals.

Liposuction to treat gynecomastia

For patients with less extensive gynecomastia, particularly those who mainly have excess fat on the chest, liposuction alone can often achieve the desired result. With this option, Dr. Sobel will make one or two tiny incisions, hidden in the armpit and/or the natural edge of the areola. Through these incisions, he can remove the excess fat and sculpt a more natural, aesthetically pleasing chest shape using a very thin, hollow instrument called a cannula.

Tissue excision

If you have significant excess glandular tissue, stretched skin, or a larger amount of fat to remove, surgical tissue removal may be the most appropriate course of action. With this approach, Dr. Sobel will usually make incisions along the areola edge and remove the excess tissue, tightening the skin and raising the nipple/areola complex if needed. While incision length will depend on the the extent of the reduction, Dr. Sobel takes care to make incisions as short as possible.

In many cases, Dr. Sobel can achieve the best results by combining liposuction with tissue excision. This allows him to remove each type of tissue in the precise amount needed to achieve a natural result while sculpting an improved shape to both sides of the chest.

How long is recovery after male breast reduction?

You will need to rest at home for several days after surgery, avoiding any strenuous activity. Patients are typically ready to return to a desk job in as little as 3 days and may gradually resume exercise after two to three weeks. Pain isn’t usually an issue, but most patients experience some level of soreness for a couple of weeks. You will be instructed to wear a compression garment for the first few weeks to help control post-operative swelling and help your results heal optimally.

Is male breast reduction the right option for me?

If you suffer from gynecomastia despite a healthy lifestyle, male breast reduction surgery can help you address the issue and feel better about the way your chest looks in and out of clothing. The best way to find out whether you are a good candidate for the procedure is to meet with an experienced, qualified cosmetic surgeon. As a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Sobel is fellowship trained in all aspects cosmetic surgery for men and can help you make an informed decision about your options.

Contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation

Areas served:

• Bellevue
• Seattle
• Kirkland
• Redmond