Gynecomastia Surgery

The overdevelopment of male breasts (gynecomastia) affects an estimated 40%-60% of men at some point during their lifetime. This condition may create physical as well as psychological issues for men who suffer from breast tissue excess. Dr. Hutchinson, a Fellowship trained, board certified plastic surgeon in NYC, is dedicated to offering the very best results for men by creating a more sculpted and masculine-looking chest using state-of-the-art techniques.

Want to be Self Assured and Confident?

Men with large or sagging breasts can feel both physically and emotionally uncomfortable, often refraining from engaging in certain activities because they are self-conscious about their appearances. Gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction surgery) aims to reduce male breasts, thereby restoring a better contour to the chest and helping the patient to feel more comfortable, self-assured, and confident.

What Causes Male Breasts?

Increased body fat
Hormonal fluctuations
Unstable weight
Certain types of drugs

Candidates For Gynecomastia Surgery

A good candidate for male breast reduction surgery is any man who feels uncomfortable due to enlarged breasts. The procedure can be performed on men of all ages from adolescence onwards who are in good physical and emotional health.

The best candidates for male breast reduction surgery have excellent skin tone so that it will reshape well to their body’s new contours. It’s also important for male breast reduction surgery candidates to have realistic expectations for the procedure.

Gynecomastia can afflict over half of teenage boys, although in the vast majority of cases, the condition will resolve on its own. For those adolescent boys in whom it persists, it can cause significant embarrassment and social anxiety. Surgery to correct gynecomastia in teenagers yields immediate and permanent results, and is especially beneficial for their psychological well-being.

Dr. Hutchinson will discuss surgical options during the consultation and determine the best treatment plan for each patient.

Dr. Hutchinson is a wonder doctor. Super smart, and I feel so comfortable with her. I highly recommend her!

NYC Plastic Surgery Patient

Gynecomastia Surgery Details

Male breast reduction surgery is usually performed under sedation or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Several techniques can be utilized in male breast reduction, depending on the extent of the procedure. The surgery typically takes one to two hours.

If the enlarged breasts are primarily caused by excessive fatty tissue, liposuction can be performed through tiny incisions to remove the excess fat. The incision is usually made around the edge of the areola or within the underarm. If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause of the enlarged breast, the tissue will need surgical excision in addition to liposuction.

In more extreme instances — when very large amounts of fat or glandular tissue have been removed — excess skin may remain that has not reshaped well to the new contour of the chest. In these cases, the excess skin may have to be removed as well. The incisions are then closed using sutures and are covered with surgical dressings. The chest is usually wrapped to minimize swelling and assist with recovery.

Recovery and Risks

Following male breast reduction surgery, patients will experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort. This discomfort usually dissipates after a few days and can be reduced with prescribed medication. To help reduce swelling, an elastic pressure garment should be worn for about two weeks, and at night for several weeks afterward. Swelling and any skin discoloration from bruising most often subsides within the first two weeks.

Stitches that need to be removed will be taken out at one of your post-operative follow up appointments within that time frame, whereas absorbable sutures will gradually disappear on their own. We encourage you to walk around on the day of your gynecomastia surgery. You can expect to return to work in approximately one week, and you may also begin light aerobic exercise after two weeks. More strenuous activities can be gradually resumed as your body fully recovers from surgery.

As with all surgical procedures, there is a small risk of complications after male breast reduction surgery. Although rare, these include infection, bleeding, fluid accumulation, unsightly scars, and changes in skin pigmentation. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Hutchinson will discuss your goals and expectations, details of the procedure, and post operative management for a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson in surgical attire

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's consultation room in Upper East Side

Male Breast Reduction with Dr. Hutchinson

Olivia Hutchinson, MD, is a board certified aesthetic plastic surgeon who has been delivering superb results to patients of Manhattan’s Upper East Side and beyond for over two decades. She is known for exceeding her patients’ expectations and providing the highest level of care for each individual patient. You will benefit from the utmost privacy and patient centered care, whether you are seen in consultation at her high-end office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side or prefer using the exclusive concierge service. Dr. Hutchinson’s patients highly value her honesty, skill, excellent judgment, knowledge, and experience. If you’re considering male breast reduction surgery and you’d like to book a consultation, contact us online or call us at (212) 452-1400.