Breast enlargement in men is quite common and often a cause of concern and embarrassment. Men with this condition may avoid swimming and stay away from situations in which they have to remove their shirt. The condition occurs quite commonly and can affect up to 50% of men at some time in their life. The cause of the breast enlargement is usually not known, but a variety of diseases and medications can cause it.
The majority of the time, gynecomastia (male breast reduction)can be treated with liposuction. Dr. Koenig uses a combination of ultrasonic liposuction and tumescense liposuction to treat the fibrous nature of the tissues in patients with male breast reduction procedures. Rarely incisions need to be made around the nipple to remove tissue that liposuction cannot remove. If there is a huge enlargement of the breasts, skin may need to be removed.
After the male breast reduction surgery, the patient is required to wear a vest that applies gentle pressure to the area treated to aid healing and prevent fluid accumulations. There is moderate pain after the male breast reduction procedure which improves rapidly over the first 24 - 48 hours. Most men return to work within a week of their breast reduction procedure and can resume full activity in 3 weeks.
Complications can occur with male breast reduction surgery, although they are uncommon. Bleeding, infection, and skin irregularities may occur. These problems are uncommon and the vast majority of patients who have surgical treatment for gynecomastia are pleased with their result.