Gynecomastia Faq

1. Am I a Good Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

Men that are in good health and have large, overdeveloped breasts or fatty chest may be considered for male chest reduction. It is also important to have good skin elasticity so that it may tighten as needed. Obesity, if an issue, will need to be addressed before surgery is considered.

2. Why Is VASER LipoSelection A Good Option for Male Breast Reduction?

Traditional liposuction was often inadequate due to the glandular and fibrous nature of the tissue. VASER LipoSelection gently melts the tissue before suctioning it out leading to less tissue damage, less bruising, and an easier recovery. There is also superior skin tightening with VASER LipoSelection leading to a smoother and tighter contour and less need for skin removal after the male breast reduction procedure. At Boston Cosmetic Surgery Center, Dr. Edwin Ishoo serves gynecomastia patients from the greater Boston and South Shore area as well as all of New England with the most advanced technology available to give a more masculine appearance to the chest.

3. How Is Male Chest Reduction Performed?

Most commonly, Dr. Ishoo performs this procedure with VASER Liposelection and liposuction alone. Sometimes there is a small bud of glandular tissue that cannot be removed with suction alone. In this instance, a small incision is made around the nipple to remove the tissue. In very rare instances incisions are made to remove large amounts of excess skin.

4. What Is the Cause of Gynecomastia?

Most commonly, Gynecomastia occurs when there is a decrease in the amount of the hormone testosterone compared with estrogen. Several factors can change the hormone balance, including:

• Natural hormonal changes
• Marijuana use
• Alcoholism
• Medications, such as anabolic steroids
• Certain health conditions

However, majority of men do not have true gynecomastia or breast glandular tissue enlargement; the most common cause of male chest enlargement is lipodystrophy or fatty tissue build up. These men are excellent candidates for treatment with minimally invasive approach using VASER Liposelection and liposuction.

5. What Will My Recovery Be Like After Male Breast Reduction?

A compression garment that is easily hidden under your clothes is worn for 2-4 weeks. Patients can usually return to work by the third day. Pain is easily controlled with oral medication. Exercise can usually be resumed two-three weeks after the surgery. Strenuous upper body exercises can usually be started about four weeks after surgery.

6. What Will My Scars Be Like After Male Breast Reduction?

When VASER LipoSelection is the only treatment, scarring is almost negligible and usually not noticeable after about six months. The incision that is placed around the nipple when suction alone is not adequate also heals very well and with time is not noticeable. Only in rare instances when extra skin is excised are there any long scars.

7. How Much Does Male Breast Reduction Cost?

Usually health insurance does not cover the cost of gynecomastia surgery. At the end of your complimentary consultation, you will be given a quote that will itemize the cost of male breast reduction.