Gynecomastia Definition:  Gyne refers to female, and mastia refers to the breast. Gynecomastia is strictly a male disease and is any growth of fatty and glandular tissue in the male breast. Enlargement of a man’s breasts is usually due to hormone imbalance or hormone therapy.

Male breast reduction surgery, also referred to as gynecomastia surgery or gyne surgery, is a cosmetic procedure to correct enlarged male breasts.

Anesthesia Type: Local or general depending on the severity of the case & whether or not other procedures are being combined with the gynecomastia surgery.

Facility Type: In-office surgical suite for local anesthesia, outpatient surgery center for general anesthesia

Recovery Time: 3-4 days to begin driving and return to work (work not requiring heavy lifting), one month to resume all activities.

What to Expect During Recovery: Swelling, bruising, discomfort, soreness, asymmetric healing, must wear a compression vest for a few weeks to help with healing.

Deciding to Have Gynecomastia Surgery –

Considering surgery of any kind is something that should never be taken lightly. The best place to start is to become educated about the entire surgical process. The more informed you are, the better capable you are of making the best possible decision. We encourage you to read the information we have provided on this page about gynecomastia surgery, followed by contacting our office to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Hurvitz at his , office.

During your consultation, it is important to share your goals and expectations from male breast reduction surgery. This will help Dr. Hurvitz understand your motives and determine if your expectations are realistic.  Dr. Hurvitz will review your health history and examine your chest to see if you are a candidate for gynecomastia surgery. If so, he will outline the procedure, or combination of procedures, necessary to obtain optimal results. Dr. Hurvitz will also discuss the risks associated with male breast reduction surgery, as well as what to expect during the healing process. One of his knowledgable and friendly staff will provide you with a detailed surgery quote and answer any remaining questions you may have.

About Gynecomastia and Male Breast Reduction Surgery –

Gynecomastia can cause emotional issues, extreme embarrassment, and lack of self-confidence.  Some men will avoid certain physical activities, social events, and intimacy to hide their condition. They will even go to great lengths to wear clothing that masks their man boobs. Gynecomastia can occur during puberty as a result of hormonal changes. It is quite common for teenage boys to experience some gynecomastia symptoms, however these symptoms usually subside on their own. Adulthood gynecomastia onset could be due to hormone therapy, marijuana use,  steroids, alcohol, certain drugs and medications, certain health conditions or natural hormonal changes.  The Mayo Clinic provides further detail here.

Gynecomastia is Characterized By –

• Excess localized fat
• Excess glandular tissue development
• Sometimes excess breast skin
• Presence in one or both breasts
• Breasts can be tender or even painful at times.

Male breast reduction surgery varies depending on the severity and type of gynecomastia. The condition can be as minor as “puffy nipple “or as severe as a C or D cup breast with significant sag. Each patient will be thoroughly evaluated by Dr. Hurvitz along with this recommendations for gynecomastia correction.

Common Gynecomastia Treatment Options – (one or more of these may be necessary to obtain a good result)

• Liposuction of fatty tissue
• Excision of glandular tissue
• Skin excision
• Breast lift
• Nipple/Areola repositioning

Procedures Frequently Combined with Male Breast Reduction Surgery –

Liposuction of the abdomen and/or flanks

Tummy Tuck