Is a male breast reduction for gynecomastia the same as a female breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty)? How are they different?
There are several ways to treat gynecomastia. Liposuction is the simplest way.
Sometimes liposuction has to be combined with a small direct excision of tissue that can be performed throught a small incision along the border of the areola.
Sometimes, if there is alot of excess skin, such as for massive weight loss patients, then similar incisions as a female breast reduction can be performed, but they are really very different procedures.
The goals for male breast reduction typically include a flatter, more muscular appearance to the chest, whereas with female breast reduction we typically want more projection and perkiness.
Most male breast reductions involve some sort of liposuction, and in many cases, that is all that is necessary. Sometimes we also need to perform an open "subcutaneous mastectomy" with incisions around the nipples. This helps to remove some of the remaining breast tissue which cannot be suctioned. On the other hand, when a man has hanging breasts, this may not be enough. In those cases, I typically perform a visor style breast reduction which leaves scars under the curve of the chest (accenting the Pectoralis muscle), and leave a scar around the nipple as well. In my opinion, this looks more natural than the old fashioned mastectomy scar that has been recommended by many.
Good Luck,
Dr. Sterry
