Tag Archives: Ask Dr. K

Ask Dr. Kassabian: Men Getting Breast Reduction Surgery? 

I have been wanted to discuss this for some time and figured no better than now with Father’s Day just around the corner. This month I will discuss the topic of men receiving Breast Reduction Surgery. Well, it is more common that you might think.

Many men feel embarrassed or insecure by enlarged breasts, technically known as Gynecomastia. About 50 percent of all men have excess localized fat or excess glandular tissue in their breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, gynecomastia accounts for more than 65 percent of all male breast disorders. So we can see, enlarged breasts in men affects a significant portion of our population, so stigmas can be put to rest with the realization of these numbers and advances in Male Breast Reduction Surgery.

I would like to note that just because a male may have “larger than average” breasts, does not mean he has Gynecomastia. Some men and boys store fat on their chests, giving the appearance of breasts. This is called Pseudogynecomastia and may go away with diet and exercise. Although not as severe as Gynecomastia, one may seek further treatment after diet and exercise have proven futile in eradicating the fat pockets.

Although not a serious medical problem, Gynecomastia can cause physical pain and inflict emotional distress and can be seen in both men and young boys.  In fact, up to 65 percent of 14-year-old males have enlarged breasts, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. 90 percent of these cases will see the excess breast tissue disappear within 3 years, largely due fluctuations in sex hormones during puberty. In older men, gynecomastia often results from the decreasing levels of testosterone, which occurs naturally during the aging process. Men also experience an increase in body fat with age and a resultant rise in estrogen, adding to the condition.

Now that we can see how common the occurrence of enlarged breasts in men is, gynecomastia or not, we can explore treatment options.

Liposuction and Laser Liposuction are the most viable solutions for such a common condition, both with minimal recovery time. Here, a small incision is made and a hollow tube (cannula), attached to a pump, is inserted and used to suction the excess fat out.

In more severe cases, an Excision procedure may be performed, in which the surgeon will remove the excess glandular tissue, fat and skin from the surrounding area around the areola and from the sides and bottom of the breast. Depending on their severity of each case, the incision size will vary, but with proper post-surgery care, scarring can be minimized significantly.

Male Breast Reduction Surgery is most often performed on an out-patient basis and is complete in a matter of hours with very little downtime following. Each case is different but one aspect remains constant, enlarged breasts in males is common, easily treatable and most importantly, nothing to be ashamed of.

For more information or to discuss options for you, please contact me at info@liftmd.com or 310-285-0400.

Sincerely,

Dr. Garo Kassabian

Lift MD Aesthetics® by Dr. Garo Kassabian

436 N. Bedford Dr. Suite 301 Beverly Hills, Ca 90210

310-285-0400

http://www.liftmd.com