Breast Reduction for Men

Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia Surgery) in San Diego

Do you shy away from wearing tight shirts or showing off your torso? Have you been unable to firm up your chest, despite your best efforts in the gym? Trust us, you’re not alone—but those feelings of insecurity stop today. You have the power to sculpt your dream chest with gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction, in San Diego, CA.

When we think of plastic surgery, we often think about women first. But men deserve to feel amazing about the way they look, too! In the warm, sunny climate of Southern California, you may feel like your whole lifestyle is constricted by your lack of confidence in your chest. Often, a male breast reduction can play a huge role in helping you leave those self-image issues in the past. With the help of our board-certified plastic surgeons, confidence is just a consultation away.

What Is Gynecomastia?

You might think gynecomastia is a rare condition by the name alone. But it’s actually extremely common among men of all ages. Here are some facts you should know:

• The word “gynecomastia” is a medical term that means “woman-like breasts.”
• According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 40% to 60% of men are affected by some level of gynecomastia.
• While some men experience gynecomastia as a result of medication or illness, most cannot identify a direct cause.

This condition, marked by the appearance of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin on the chest, is often the result of a mix of weight gain, genetics, and testosterone imbalances, making it notoriously difficult to improve with diet and exercise alone.

What To Expect at Your Male Breast Reduction Consultation

Once you decide a male breast reduction is right for you, start by making an appointment with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. During this consultation, you will:

• Meet personally in consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon
• Have your concerns examined and discuss the specifics of the recommended procedure
• Receive information and materials that help you in the decision-making process
• See before-and-after pictures of real people like you
• Get a specific written quote detailing all the costs

After you schedule your surgery, you’ll attend an individual “pre-op” appointment to discuss all surgical aspects and risks so you’re fully informed and prepared for the big day.

How Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Male breast reduction surgery is performed using general anesthesia in our QUAD A-accredited surgical suite. You’ll be monitored by a board-certified anesthesiologist from start to finish.

Liposuction for gynecomastia is relatively simple. Your surgeon will make a very short (½ inch or less) incision in an area that is easily hidden, such as:

• Along the edge of the areola
• In the fold under the breast
• In the axilla (underarm area)

Then, your surgeon will suction excess fat from under the skin. In more severe cases, your surgeon may recommend surgical removal of the breast tissue. This requires an incision on the chest wall.

Both types of surgery usually improve any existing asymmetry. Like women’s breasts, the size of each male breast might be slightly different in size and shape, and your surgeon will do their best to correct any differences.

What Is Male Breast Reduction Recovery Like?

When you have a cosmetic procedure performed under general anesthesia, it’s important that you plan for recovery time and limit your activities. Here’s a bit more about what you can expect.