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What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is abnormally enlarged breast tissue in men. The term comes from the combining forms gyneco-, which is female, and masto, which is breast—both from the Greek. Gynecomastia surgery exists to address this issue specifically.


What Causes Gynecomastia?

It is not uncommon and develops in approximately 70% of adolescent boys, with about 75% of cases resolving without treatment in about two years after the condition develops. There are also certain diseases and medications, as well as dysfunctions of the endocrine and metabolic systems that can cause the condition. The normal reduction in testosterone production that comes with aging can result in gynecomastia. Many older men notice they are developing an excess of breast tissue and choose to undergo surgery to smooth and firm the upper chest.

Man with white shirt unbuttoned

What is Male Breast Reduction?

There are certain medications that may prove effective in reducing the size of the breasts, depending on the cause, but surgical procedures are the most effective and longest-lasting treatments for gynecomastia. There are two procedures that may be used:

  • Cosmetic surgery: A surgical procedure in which a small incision is made, followed by our plastic surgeon removing any extra breast tissue. With the removal of tissue, the breast becomes smaller and flatter, which can change the position of the nipples. In such instances the surgeon may also need to move the nipple or the dark area around it (the areola), as well. If the Webster Incision is used, the incision is made beneath the areola and will be invisible once healed.
  • Liposuction: A treatment in which the extra fat is suctioned from under the skin. This has less risk of nipple distortion but, for many men, it is only used as in combination with cosmetic surgery. A very small incision is made (5 mm) at the edge of the nipple so the excess fatty tissue can be extracted with gentle liposuction.

Dr. Sadrian's male breast reduction surgery in La Jolla can take as little as one hour but more commonly takes closer to two hours.

What is the cost of a male breast reduction?

Male breast reduction costs between $8,000 and $11,000, which includes all fees associated with your surgery. However, this price is an estimate, as the cost may vary based on your unique physical features, which surgical technique is used, and other factors.

To help make your procedure more easily available, we provide financing with PatientFi, CareCredit, and Alphaeon.

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Recovery from Male Breast Reduction

If you have an excess of glandular tissue and fat to be removed, the incision will be larger and the recovery a bit longer. Also, quality of your skin and your natural healing ability are factors in how well and quickly the scars heal.

On average, most patients can resume their daily routines within two or three days. Moderate exercise can typically be resumed with two to three weeks.

Why Choose Dr. Sadrian for Male Breast Reduction in La Jolla

As a Board-certified plastic surgeon with almost two decades of experience, Dr. Sadrian has successfully performed gynecomastia surgery in La Jolla many times. His experience, combined with his keen eye for aesthetics and balance, Dr. Sadrian can be trusted to carefully and correctly perform this important surgery, so you can once again feel comfortable in your own skin.

FAQ Gynecomastia

Are you one of the many men who struggles with an excess of breast tissue? Are you tired of wearing loose clothing or trying to hide the condition? At Sadrian Plastic Surgery, we are here to help. Read our answers to common questions to help you understand what to expect.

How long can I expect the results of male breast reduction to last?

While the surgical procedure is meant to provide permanent results, this can be altered by a number of health, life and lifestyle changes, such as gaining or losing weight, a change in the amount or type of exercise you do, certain medical conditions or the ingestion of drugs that affect testosterone levels.

How long does male breast reduction surgery take to complete?

Typically, this surgery requires only about one to two hours to complete, based upon what is required for the individual patient. Some may only need liposuction, while others need to have glandular tissue removed. As with every surgical procedure we perform, we never rush, and take all the time needed to create a firm, smooth, masculine upper chest and arguably the best results in male reduction La Jolla has to offer.

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