Over developed male breasts can make simple things, like wearing a tight shirt, seem impossible.  Gynecomastia is relatively common in teens and most of the time symptoms disappear quickly as adolescence ends.  For others though, the shame and humiliation continues into adulthood.

There are several potential causes:

• puberty
• steroid abuse
• obesity
• tumors
• genetic disorders
• chronic liver disease
• side effects of many medications
• castration
• Klinefelter Syndrome
• Gilbert's Syndrome
• aging

When gynecomastia is caused by obesity, weight loss can reduce the condition but for many it will not eliminate it.  For all other causes, surgery is the only known physical remedy. Once a man's physical appearance is changed he needs to move to address any lingering psychological effects. Hopefully, corrective surgery will resolve most of these concerns but for some it will not and therapy will be needed.

If you're considering male breast surgery, this outline will give you a basic understanding of the procedure when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect.  It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on the individual patient and the surgeon.  Dr. Walker is more than happy to clarify any misunderstandings, please contact her office with any questions or concerns you may have.

For men who suffer from gynecomastia, the weight of excess breast tissue causes the breasts to sag and stretch the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). In these cases the position and size of the areola can be surgically improved and excess skin may be reduced.

Step 1 - Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure.

Step 2 - Liposuction
When the primary cause of gynecomastia is excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques alone may be used.

Step 3 - Excision
When glandular breast tissue or excess skin needs to be removed, excision is recommended. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference.

In some cases gynecomastia is treated with both liposuction and excision.

Setp 4 - See the results
Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover and realize the fulfillment of your goals.

If you have more questions about male breast surgery, take a look at our resources and education section.

This procedure is a good option for you if:

• You are physically healthy and of relatively normal weight
• You have realistic expectations
• Your breast development has stabilized
• You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too large

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

Surgical correction of gynecomastia is best performed on:

• 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