Breast Reduction – Men (Gynecomastia)

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” An estimated 40 to 60% of men are affected by gynecomastia.  Male breast reduction surgery is performed by Dr. Epstein to eliminate fatty or glandular tissue from this area, which improves the shape and contour of the chest by making it flatter and firmer. Male breast reduction surgery can be combined with other body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or multiple areas of liposuction.

How is male breast reduction surgery performed?

Male breast reduction surgery is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our fully accredited surgical facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. There are several different treatment options depending on your particular case. If the male breasts are primarily caused by fatty tissue, Dr. Epstein will use liposuction to remove unwanted localized deposits of fat cells from the area. Liposuction uses a cannula inserted into the skin through a tiny incision to eliminate these fat cells. The chest is then re-sculpted into a more appealing contour.

If the gynecomastia is caused by glandular disorder, a surgical incision would be the preferred option. An incision is placed on the lower part of the areola or in the underarm area. Excess glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes skin are cut away from the breast. This can be performed alone or combined with liposuction.  This procedure takes approximately 1-2 hours, but may vary depending on the complexity of the case.

What to expect during the recovery period:

• Discomfort, bruising and swelling are normal and can be controlled with medication
• A compression garment must be worn up to 3 weeks post-surgery
• May be some numbness in the areas treated, which can last up to 1 year
• Return to light activities and work 3-5 days post-surgery
• Resume full activities 4 weeks post-surgery

In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques.  An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.