Excessive male breast tissue, or gynecomastia, is actually quite common, affecting an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. One or both breasts may be affected and can be caused by an abnormal amount of breast tissue, excess fat, or certain drugs or medical problems. The condition has nothing to do with female traits, but can still cause one to be self-concious and lower self-esteem.

The Procedure

Depending on the candidate, breast tissue can be reduced with either surgical excision or liposuction. If surgical excision is required, fat and/or glandular tissue is excised and removed from the breasts. In some cases removal of excess skin is also necessary. A small incision is made just under the areola resulting in minimal scarring. In many cases, liposuction techniques alone may be used. A small incision in made below the breast fold or under the areola and excess fat is removed through a cannula by vacuum suction. With both approaches, the result is a firmer, flatter chest.

The best candidates for this type of surgery are those with firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body's new contours. Obese or overweight men should first attempt to reduce breast size with exercise or weight loss.

Recovery: What to Expect

Patients can usually return to work within a couple of days depending on the type of work performed, and can immediately begin walking daily. Any stitches will be removed one to two weeks after surgery and swelling should be gone within six weeks.

Link to Male Breast Reduction Photos