Male Breast Reduction FAQ

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is overly large breast in men. It can occur on just one breast or both breasts. A breast reduction (gynecomastia surgery) is performed to alleviate the problem. This is done by removing excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to correct the problem.

Who is a good candidate for gynecomastia surgery?

The best candidates for gynecomastia surgery are men who have one or both breasts that are enlarged. Gynecomastia can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, disease, or certain drugs so it is best if the breast development is stabilized and the cause of the underlying problem is identified.

Where is the scar from gynecomastia surgery?

The scar for gynecomastia surgery depends on which technique is used to address the problem. Sometimes liposuction can be done to correct excess fatty tissue. If glandular tissue or skin needs to be removed the incision will be longer. Sometimes both techniques are used. Dr. Sood will determine which technique is best for you.

What are the possible risks of a breast reduction?

Potential risks include bleeding, infection, seroma, pain, scarring, numbness, asymmetry, loss of sensation in the nipple, partial or total loss of nipple or areola, fat necrosis, and need for additional surgery. Dr. Sood will discuss these risks further at your consultation.

How long is breast reduction surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is usually 1-2 hours depending on the size of your breast.

What is the typical recovery time for breast reduction surgery?

This procedure can be done as an outpatient or as an overnight stay. You will be sent home on pain medicine and antibiotics. You may have surgical drains in place on each breast. You will be placed in a compression garment that will need to be worn following your procedure. Please check with Dr. Sood how long this should be worn. You will need to be off work for 1-2 weeks dependent on the type of work you perform. You should not do any strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks following this procedure.

When do I return for a follow up visit?

You will need to be seen the next day as well as a week after surgery. From there Dr. Sood will determine when you need to follow up.

How long before I can return to work?

Most patients are able to return to work in 1-2 weeks depending on the work requirements.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most activities of daily living can be resumed within a couple of days. You will be given a 10 pound lifting restrictions for the first few weeks following surgery. It is important to get up and move around within a day of surgery to help decrease the chance of developing a blood clot. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about 4-6 weeks or until Dr. Sood has given you clearance.

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.