Gynecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Reduction)

Male Breast Reduction – Gynecomastia Surgery in Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ

Gynecomastia is the medical term to describe an enlargement of breast tissue in males. It may be due to an abnormal condition associated with a metabolic disorder or as a side-effect of medication. In older males, it may be due to a decrease of testosterone production. Gynecomastia is a frequent cause of low self-esteem and embarrassment but is not physically harmful. It may occur unilaterally or bilaterally. The symptoms and presentation of gynecomastia are secondary to excessive estrogen in the body. This is often the result of a ratio increase between estrogen to androgens.

Gynecomastia Surgery Before & Afters

Categories and grading system of gynecomastia severity:

  • Grade I: Minor enlargement, no skin excess
  • Grade II: Moderate enlargement, no skin excess
  • Grade III: Moderate enlargement, skin excess
  • Grade IV: Marked enlargement, skin excess

How do we treat Gynecomastia?

A thorough examination and investigation is necessary to look for medically reversible causes of gynecomastia. It is very important to be near your ideal weight before considering male breast reduction. Weight loss can alter the condition in cases where obesity is the cause. Losing weight, however will not reduce the glandular component. In the absence of a medically treatable condition, a surgical procedure such as liposuction or male breast reduction surgery are the only effective treatment. The majority of men with gynecomastia have both breast tissue and fat.

The treatment generally depends on the severity and the density of the tissue. Traditional liposuction alone may remove the fatty tissue. However, when the tissue is dense, ultrasound-assisted liposuction will help break up the tissue. In some cases, however, surgical excision is necessary. Surgical approaches primarily include subcutaneous mastectomy, and/or liposuction-assisted mastectomy. Enlarged and dilated areolae may be corrected at the time of this surgery.

What to expect after treatment?

Excellent results are expected with gynecomastia surgery performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Complications may occur but are rare. The most common complications are recurrence or scar indentations.. Most patients who have this surgery are very happy with the results and regret not exploring surgical options sooner. Most patients return to work within a few days when liposuction alone is required, or within 1 week, when excision is necessary.

Contact DeVito Plastic Surgery Center in Scottsdale to schedule your consultation.

Call our office at

480.889.3000