When most people think of breast reduction surgery, they think of a surgery that is exclusively for women. However, men can have breast reduction surgery too.
According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, 40% of breast reduction surgeries are now performed on men.
So, what is male chest reduction surgery, what causes the growth of breast tissue in men, and how can New Birkdale Clinic help when it comes to men’s breast reductions?
What causes the growth of male breasts?
Male breasts are often informally referred to as ‘man boobs’ or ‘moobs,’ although the official medical term is gynaecomastia. Gynaecomastia causes breast tissue to grow in men and boys, meaning the chest swells and becomes larger than usual.
Gynaecomastia is caused by a hormone imbalance. Men produce both testosterone and oestrogen, the latter being a hormone that promotes breast growth. If levels of testosterone decrease, or levels of oestrogen increase, this can cause male breast growth.
Boys going through puberty may experience gynaecomastia; this typically clears up as they get older and their hormones stabilise.
Older and overweight or obese men can also experience gynaecomastia. This is because older men produce less testosterone, while overweight and obese men produce more oestrogen.
Men on medication that can affect hormone levels (for example, steroids) may also experience gynaecomastia.
There are two different types of gynaecomastia: ‘pure glandular’ and ‘mixed.’ Pure glandular gynaecomastia is caused by an excess amount of fibrous breast tissue, while mixed is caused by a combination of fibrous breast tissue and fatty tissue.
If you think you have gynaecomastia, we advise seeing your GP first. They’ll be able to identify the underlying cause and help recommend a plan of action.
What is male breast reduction surgery?
Male chest reduction surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic.
The exact surgery you receive depends on whether you have pure glandular or mixed gynaecomastia.
With pure glandular gynaecomastia, an incision is made in the nipple, and the fibrous breast tissue is cut out. With mixed gynaecomastia, incisions are made in the armpit and liposuction is also carried out to remove excess fatty tissue.
This results in a flatter, smoother chest.
Most male chest reduction surgery is performed as a day case, although there may be some circumstances where you must be kept in overnight.
You’ll need to recover at home for one week and avoid exercise and physical activity for between three to six weeks after the surgery.
How much is men’s breast reduction surgery?
Male breast reduction surgery is generally unavailable on the NHS, meaning you will need to go to a private clinic to have the surgery done.
Our cost for gyno removal surgery costs from £5,895. The cost of the surgery depends on whether you are getting breast tissue removed, or both breast tissue and fat removed.
When you attend a consultation with us, we’ll determine which type of surgery will provide the best results.
Are there any other ways you can reduce ‘man boobs’?
Are there any other options if you don’t want chest reduction surgery?
If you have mixed gynaecomastia, diet and exercise can help reduce the appearance of male breasts, although it won’t get rid of them entirely. This is because there is still underlying fibrous breast tissue that is causing the problem.
Some men think they have gynaecomastia, but it’s all excess fat rather than breast tissue. This is referred to as ‘pseudo-gynaecomastia’ and can be eliminated by following a healthy lifestyle.
As gynaecomastia is caused by a hormone imbalance, your doctor may prescribe medication to see if this helps.
Male breast reduction surgery at the New Birkdale Clinic
Whether you are looking for male chest reduction surgery or female breast reduction surgery, you need to work with a clinic that is safe, ethical, and has the expertise you need.
We will work with you to determine if breast reduction surgery is the right option, and carry out the procedure at our CQC-registered hospital. With our team of expert surgeons, you’re in the safest of hands.
Contact us today to arrange your consultation and take the first step towards a confident new you.
The post Can Men Have Breast Reduction Surgery? appeared first on New Birkdale Clinic.