What is Gynecomastia Surgery? Male Breast Reduction FAQs Answered

Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of breast tissue in men, can be a source of physical discomfort and emotional distress. Many men find that male breast reduction surgery offers a way to regain confidence and achieve a more traditionally masculine chest contour. 

Understanding the nuances of this procedure can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Here, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about gynecomastia surgery, including what it is, recovery time, cost, and more.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia can result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or underlying health issues. It often develops during puberty when hormones are in significant flux but can occur at any age. Understanding the cause is crucial as it determines the treatment approach. For many, surgery is a viable option when hormonal treatments do not yield the desired results or when the gynecomastia is particularly severe.

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery, commonly referred to as male breast reduction, is a procedure designed to address the overdevelopment of breast tissue in men. This condition, known as gynecomastia, can affect one or both breasts, often leading to emotional discomfort and self-consciousness. The surgery aims to restore a flatter, more traditionally masculine chest contour and can significantly improve an individual’s body image and confidence.

What Does Gynecomastia Surgery Involve?

The surgical approach for correcting gynecomastia depends on the degree of tissue enlargement and the composition of breast tissue and fat. The most common technique combines liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue with the excision of glandular tissue and excess skin to achieve optimal results. 

The objective is to create a chest that is both smooth and firm, enhancing the overall chest contours. Surgeons customize the procedure based on each patient’s unique body structure and the specific characteristics of their gynecomastia, ensuring that the enhancements appear natural.

Is the Surgery Painful?

While any surgical procedure can involve some discomfort, the pain associated with gynecomastia surgery is generally manageable. Patients are provided with pain relief medications to help control any discomfort experienced in the immediate postoperative period. 

The intensity of pain is often less than what many anticipate, and significant relief usually occurs within the first week after surgery. Adhering closely to the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, including guidelines on activity levels and pain management, is crucial for a smooth and less painful recovery.

How Long Does it Take to Recover From Gynecomastia Surgery?

Recovery varies by individual but generally involves several stages. Initially, you will need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support the new chest contour. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks, provided their job does not involve heavy lifting or strenuous activity. Full physical activities can usually resume within a month, and most swelling subsides within the first few weeks.

How Long to Wear Compression Vest After Gynecomastia Surgery

After gynecomastia surgery, wearing a compression vest is an important part of the recovery process. Typically, surgeons recommend that patients wear a compression garment for about 4 to 6 weeks. This helps to reduce swelling, minimize the risk of fluid accumulation, and support the new chest contour as it heals.

The exact duration can vary based on the extent of the surgery and individual healing rates. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines regarding how long you should wear the vest, including how often and under what circumstances you can remove it temporarily. Following these instructions closely is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring a smooth recovery.

Can Gynecomastia Come Back After Surgery?

Gynecomastia can potentially recur after surgery, although this is not common if the underlying causes are addressed effectively. Recurrence depends on several factors, including hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, or the use of certain medications or substances known to cause gynecomastia, such as steroids or drugs that affect hormone levels.

It’s important to maintain a stable weight, manage health conditions that could affect hormone levels, and avoid substances that can lead to gynecomastia to minimize the risk of recurrence. It’s also crucial for patients to follow their surgeon’s advice and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery and hormonal status.

How Much Does Gynecomastia Surgery Cost?

The cost of gynecomastia surgery can vary widely depending on several factors including the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s expertise, and geographic location. Generally, prices range from $4,000 to $8,000. Most practices, including Perimeter Plastic Surgery, offer financing solutions to help you get your dream body sooner rather than later.

This estimate typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room facilities, and any post-surgery garments required. It’s important to discuss all potential costs with your surgeon during the consultation to get a clear and comprehensive understanding of the financial commitment involved.

Is Gynecomastia Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Coverage for gynecomastia surgery by insurance is not straightforward and depends heavily on the insurance provider and specific policy terms. Most insurers categorize the surgery as cosmetic, hence not covered. 

However, if a patient can prove that the procedure is medically necessary — for example if the gynecomastia is causing severe pain or other significant health issues — some insurers may consider covering part or all of the surgery costs. Documentation from medical evaluations demonstrating the health-related reasons for the surgery will be crucial in these cases. You’ll need to directly contact your insurance provider to understand the specific terms and possible coverage.

Schedule Your Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation 

Male breast reduction surgery offers a significant transformation for those affected by gynecomastia, not just physically but emotionally and psychologically. Understanding the procedure, recovery, and expected outcomes is key to making an informed decision. 

If you’re ready to take the first step toward newfound confidence, Dr. Mark Franklin Deutsch — voted Atlanta’s #1 plastic surgeon of 2024 — and his team at Perimeter Plastic Surgery are happy to help. Dr Deutsch is double-board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of General Surgery renowned for his excellent level of care. 

Contact us online or call 404-255-0886 to learn more and receive a male breast reduction consultation from our award-winning team today!