Gynecomastia is the formation of male breasts and is believed to be apparent in as much as 65% of the male population. Excess breast tissue may be composed of fat, glandular tissue or a combination of both and can occur in one or both breasts. There can be also be excess sagging skin. Hormonal changes, increased age, certain drugs or medical conditions can cause gynecomastia. Surgical procedures remove fat, glandular tissue, or excess skin from the breast to produce a flatter, more masculine appearance.

Surgical treatment includes liposuction, excision of excess tissue or skin, or a combination of both. The procedure lasts from one to two hours and is usually performed under twilight anesthesia.

Recovery
Once completed, patients can expect temporary pain and swelling and are required to wear a compression garment for two to four weeks. Patients return to work in one week and limit strenuous activity for two to four weeks or more. Fading and flattening of scars takes three months to a year. Risks are minimal but include infection, bleeding, nipple sensation changes, poor scaring, skin puckering, contour irregularities or asymmetry.