Male Breast Reduction

Some men and even adolescent boys may struggle with excess breast tissue on their chests, which may be embarrassing and difficult to hide. In the DFW area, many of these men can turn to plastic surgeon Dr. James Ward for male breast reduction surgery at USMD Hospital in Arlington.

When Is Male Breast Reduction the Right Choice?

For men who deal with excess breast tissue, male breast reduction surgery may be the only means of correction. Though some changes in lifestyle, hormones or drug use may improve the condition, Dr. Ward offers the procedure to those who lack alternatives. Male breast reduction combines skin and tissue tightening techniques with liposuction to create a more masculine chest.

To undergo male breast reduction surgery to correct gynecomastia, you must be at a stable, healthy body weight and be a non-smoker. Dr. Ward may first ask you to undergo a medical evaluation to determine the possible causes of your gynecomastia to see if lifestyle changes may correct the condition.

How Male Breast Reduction Creates a Flat Chest

Before beginning the surgery, which will last at least one hour, Dr. Ward's board certified anesthesiologist will administer a local anesthetic with sedation or a general anesthetic. Making incisions that will be hidden in your underarm or around your nipple areola, Dr. Ward will remove the excess glandular tissue with a scalpel. If fatty tissue must also be removed, Dr. Ward will use a small tube called a cannula to liposuction it out. If a large amount of tissue is removed, Dr. Ward may also need to remove skin in order to ensure good contour. He will then close any incisions with stitches.

Post-Operative Steps: What to Expect

After male breast reduction, your chest will be wrapped in gauze and you will wear a compression garment to aid in healing. Swelling, bruising and pain are likely and Dr. Ward will prescribe medication to help you manage pain. After a week or two, your stitches will be removed, but you must avoid exercise for about three weeks. Later exercise will ensure a lasting result, though it may be up to three months before that is apparent. If you maintain a healthy lifestyle, the results of male breast reduction surgery will be permanent.

Some possible complications following male breast reduction may include infection, scarring, excessive bleeding, or changes in pigment. Dr. Ward can explain the likelihood of these adverse events during your consultation.

We encourage you to contact plastic surgeon Dr. James Ward's Arlington USMD office to learn about male breast reduction. To schedule a consultation, please call (817) 861-0505.