Male Breast Correction (Gynecomastia)
All men have some breast tissue associated with the nipple and areola to various degrees. In some men, there is an abnormally enlarged amount of breast tissue and the areola may also be wide and prominent. This may take on the appearance of a female breast and can be difficult to hide in clothing and when shirtless. This can occur at any age. The condition may result from hormonal sensitivity, aging, heredity, obesity, and the use of certain medications or drugs. Gynecomastia is often associated with emotional distress and may negatively affect self-confidence. In severe cases, there may be excess, droopy skin, and a widening and enlargement of the areola. Stable gynecomastia, in the absence of a medically determined cause, is treated with surgery.
The surgery chosen depends on the amount of breast tissue and fat, the grade of gynecomastia, and the degree and quality of redundant skin. Surgical excision may be combined with liposuction to sculpt and remove excess fat. It is important that the surgeon is experienced in these techniques to avoid overly removing tissue and creating a hollowed-out or unnatural appearance to the chest.
Surgical Correction of Gynecomastia:
- Liposuction: Reserved for men with a predominance of excess fat and good skin elasticity
- Keyhole: Removal of breast tissue through a small incision around the areola
- Periareolar/Areola reducing: Breast tissue is removed through the keyhole approach and the areola is made smaller to create a masculine-appearing areola
- Double incision with pedicled nipple or nipple graft: The breast tissue is removed through an incision in the crease under the breast to contour the scar along the edge of the chest muscle. The nipple may remain attached to preserve circulation or placed as a skin graft along the lower outer edge of the chest muscle.
