Male Breast Reduction

Is gynecomastia surgery right for me?

Gynecomastia surgery candidates include:

• Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments
• Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing
• Non-smokers and non-drug users
• Men with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving the physical symptoms of gynecomastia
• Men who are physically healthy and of relatively normal weight
• Men who have realistic expectations
• Men whose breast development has stabilized
• Men who are bothered by the feeling that their breasts are too large

Adolescents may benefit from surgery, although secondary procedures may be needed in the future should breast development continue.

Where are the incisions made during a gynecomastia surgery?

Your gynecomastia surgery can be achieved through a variety of techniques. Dr. Vartany will discuss the procedure that will provide you with the most satisfactory results.

Liposuction Technique
In cases where gynecomastia is primarily the result of excessive fatty tissue, liposuction techniques alone may be used. This requires the insertion of a cannula, a thin hollow suction tube, through several small incisions.

Excision Technique
Excision techniques are recommended where glandular breast tissue or excessive skin must be removed to correct gynecomastia. Excision is also necessary if the areola will be reduced or the nipple will be repositioned to a more natural male contour. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference.

In some circumstances, a combination of both techniques may be used. Dr. Vartany will review your options and determine what will be the best option for your specific needs.

Are there additional instructions for my gynecomastia recovery?

After your gynecomastia surgery is complete, dressings or bandages will be applied to your incisions. An elastic bandage or compression garment may also be used to minimize swelling and support your new chest contour as it heals after surgery. You will need to wear your garment for 2-4 weeks after surgery.

Small, thin tubes with drains attached may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect. If drains are necessary for your procedure, they will need to be emptied twice daily. A form will be provided for you to log the amount of fluid being drained from each side, both morning and night. Your drains will be removed in the office once the fluid output goes down. This is generally 3-5 days after surgery.

You may not shower while your drains are in place.

If you do not have surgical drains, you may take a shower three days after surgery. Once you have showered, replace your compression garment immediately back on and keep it on, day and night, for two weeks after surgery.

You may not sleep on your stomach for 4-6 weeks after surgery.

It is extremely important that you limit the use of your arms for 10-14 days after surgery. Do not extend your arms over your shoulder level.

You may not drive a vehicle until you have been permitted to do so.

How much time should I take off of work?

You will need to allow between 7 to 10 days off from work or school for this procedure due to swelling and discomfort.

What are some procedures that may complement gynecomastia?

• Abdominoplasty
• Liposuction