Gynecomastia or Male Breast Reduction

Gynecomastia is a benign disorder that to some degree can affect many males at some point in their life. The term gynecomastia refers to a feminization of the male breast as a result of an enlargement in its size by the growth of the small amounts of breast tissue normally present in all males. Adolescents will often find a small lump of breast tissue beneath their nipple. Although this often justifiably causes a degree of concern, it is most usually benign and will resolve without treatment. When it does not go away or increases in size that it is noticeable through t-shirts or on the beach, consultation for evaluation and possible correction is appropriate.

The surgical approach for correction of gynecomastia is most commonly through a periareolar incision extending from 3 o’clock to 9 o’clock. Hard breast tissue must be removed through an open surgical procedure that at times can be supplemented by liposuction. Gynecomastia can rarely be corrected by liposuction alone. Patients who have extreme enlargement of their breasts may require excision of skin, as well as removal of the underlying breast tissue. This can require additional scarring on the skin around the breast.

The procedure can be performed under a local anesthesia supplemented by intravenous sedation in an accredited outpatient facility. Normal activities can be resumed by 3 weeks after the procedure. Breast cancer can occur in males, although with a much lower incidence than in females. The incidence of any lump in the male breast that persists or increases in size should be evaluated by a physician.

The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only after a personal consultation. The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Please e-mail us at infoplstc@RothausMD.com or call us at 212.737.0770 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rothaus