Male Breast Reduction

Male breast reduction for our Cleveland and Mayfield Heights-area patients can be attained discreetly from our experienced plastic surgeon. For many men, excess fat or glandular tissue in the breasts (gynecomastia) is a source of deep self-consciousness. Gynecomastia is a common condition among men; however there are effective surgical treatments that can be performed to eradicate it. Gynecomastia can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Obesity
• Age
• Use of anabolic steroids
• Use of medications containing estrogen
• Use of herbal testosterone additives
• Heredity

Dr. Jason Leedy is an experienced plastic surgeon who is highly adept at performing male breast reduction procedures for the treatment of gynecomastia. He assures all of his patients that their visit to his practice will be held in the strictest confidence.

If you think you may suffer from gynecomastia, please contact our Akron and Cleveland-area practice to schedule a consultation.

The Male Breast Reduction Procedure

There are two methods of male breast reduction that are commonly utilized. If it is determined that only fatty tissue is causing the appearance of large breasts, and the nipples are in relatively appropriate position, ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) alone can be an effective remedy. UAL involves using sound waves to break up fat deposits in the chest. Once the fat deposits are broken up, a thin metal tube is inserted into the treatment area to vacuum out the fat cells.

In cases where gynecomastia involves glandular tissue as well as fat and skin, Dr. Leedy will make small incisions either in the armpit or around the nipple and extract the excess. The remaining skin will then be lifted and tightened. Dr. Leedy may also use liposuction on the area in order to maximize results.

Male Breast Reduction Recovery

Common side effects of male breast reduction include temporary swelling, bruising, and numbness. Light activity can typically be resumed after a few days, but Dr. Leedy recommends that patients avoid strenuous exercise for at least two to three weeks. Barring weight gain and the use of medications that may cause gynecomastia to return, the results of male breast reduction are usually permanent.

Risks

There are risks to any surgical procedure, and male breast reduction is no exception. Some risks associated with gynecomastia treatment include:

• Reaction to anesthesia
• Fluid collection under the skin
• Blood collection under the skin
• Infection
• Skin or nipple numbness

Dr. Leedy will discuss all aspects of the procedure with you at your initial consultation. Complications are rare in this procedure, and Dr. Leedy will take every precaution to minimize any potential risk.