Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery reduces excess male breast tissue and reshapes the chest. The procedure may involve liposuction, glandular tissue excision, skin removal, or a combination of techniques.

Gynecomastia can range from mild puffiness beneath the nipple to more significant chest enlargement with stretched skin and enlarged areolas. Because the cause and tissue composition vary, surgery must be customized.

• Excess fat: May be improved with liposuction.
• Dense glandular tissue: Usually requires direct surgical excision.
• Loose or stretched skin: May require skin tightening or removal in more advanced cases.

The goal is not simply to remove volume. It is to create a smoother, flatter, and more natural-looking chest that remains balanced with the shoulders, abdomen, and overall frame.

Dr. Lovelace can evaluate whether the concern is primarily fat, glandular tissue, loose skin, or a combination.

The surgical plan depends on the amount and type of tissue, skin elasticity, chest proportions, areola size, and the degree of correction needed.

Liposuction

Liposuction may be used when excess fatty tissue contributes to chest fullness. Small incisions allow fat to be removed and the chest contour to be sculpted. It can be especially helpful for contouring the outer chest and creating smoother transitions.

Excision of Glandular Tissue

Dense glandular tissue cannot be removed effectively with liposuction alone. It is often located directly beneath the nipple and areola and may require excision through an incision placed near the areolar edge.

Skin Tightening or Skin Removal

More advanced gynecomastia, stretched skin, or major weight loss may require skin removal. The scar pattern depends on how much skin must be addressed and whether the nipple or areola needs repositioning.

Many patients benefit from a combination of liposuction and excision. Selecting the correct technique is important because liposuction alone may leave glandular fullness behind, while excessive tissue removal can create contour depressions.

Swelling, soreness, tightness, and bruising are common during early recovery. A compression garment is often used to support the chest and help control swelling.

• First few days Rest, take short walks, wear the compression garment as directed, and avoid lifting, pushing, and upper-body strain.
• First one to two weeks Many patients return to nonphysical work as swelling and bruising begin improving.
• Following weeks Light exercise is gradually resumed after clearance, while chest training remains restricted until approved.
• Several months Residual swelling decreases, scars mature, and the final chest contour becomes easier to evaluate.

Recovery varies based on whether surgery involved liposuction, gland excision, skin removal, or a combination.

Dr. Lovelace can explain expected activity restrictions based on the technique recommended for you.