breast procedures
Gynaecomastia – Male Breast Reduction
What is Gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia is a medical condition characterised by the enlargement of male breast tissue. In the majority of cases there is no known cause, and despite being a common condition, it is not frequently discussed.
Why Have a Male Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery can be beneficial for men who are concerned about their appearance. This surgical procedure involves the removal of breast tissue and, in severe instances, excess skin.
Most teenage boys experience a certain level of breast enlargement that affects either one or both breasts. However, as they enter early adulthood, less than 10% of them continue to experience this issue. As men age, the incidence of breast enlargement increases, with approximately 30% (1 in 3) of older men being affected.
Rarely, breast enlargement can be attributed to medications used for conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and prostate cancer, as well as drugs such as marijuana and anabolic steroids. Certain diseases like liver failure and some cancers, as well as rare congenital abnormalities, can also cause breast enlargement.
During your initial consultation, your surgeon should rule out these potential causes. Your surgeon will also require additional information about your overall health, chest size and body shape, previous chest surgeries, any bleeding tendencies, and healing capabilities. Some of these factors can be influenced by smoking, alcohol consumption, and various medications.
How is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?
The breast consists of two main components: glandular tissue, which is firm and dense, and fatty tissue, which is soft. The proportion of glandular to fatty tissue can vary from person to person, and in cases of gynaecomastia, there may be an excess of both.
If the breast enlargement is primarily due to an overall increase in fatty tissue, the usual treatment is liposuction. This procedure involves sucking out the excess tissue through a small tube inserted via a 3-4mm incision.
In cases where excess glandular tissue is the main cause of breast enlargement, it may be necessary to surgically cut out the tissue using a scalpel. This procedure will result in a scar, typically around the edge of the nipple. The excision can be performed alone or in combination with liposuction.
In instances where there is a significant amount of tissue and skin to be removed, larger incisions may be required, resulting in more noticeable scars.
Our Doctors
Michael McBride FRCS (Plast)
