Men with visible or overdeveloped chest tissue often face a number of emotional and psychological difficulties in their daily life. While many people assume gynecomastia is purely a cosmetic concern, the condition can affect far more than just appearance. Men with overdeveloped breast tissue often struggle with self-confidence, low self-esteem, embarrassment in social or intimate situations, and even anxiety or depression. Gynecomastia surgery is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat and breast tissue in men to restore a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by enlarged male breast tissue. Contrary to popular belief, the appearance of overdeveloped chest tissue is very common and can develop due to hormonal imbalances, genetics, weight fluctuations, the use of certain medications, or lifestyle factors such as steroid use.
While the condition is medically harmless, gynecomastia can cause significant self-consciousness, discomfort, and emotional distress. Fortunately, gynecomastia surgery — commonly known as male breast reduction — can provide effective and permanent improvements. During male breast reduction, board-certified Wichita plastic surgeon James Shaw, MD removes the excess glandular and fatty tissue causing noticeable male breasts. The goal is not only to reduce overdeveloped tissue, but also to create natural-looking chest contours that are proportionate to a patient’s physique.
Beyond the physical benefits, many men experience a profound boost in confidence and body image following gynecomastia surgery, often feeling more comfortable engaging in activities like swimming, exercising shirtless, or wearing form-fitting clothing. For men seeking a more masculine chest, gynecomastia surgery offers an effective, lasting solution to correct enlarged breasts and achieve a more defined appearance.
Who is a Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Good candidates for gynecomastia surgery are men who experience excess breast tissue, fullness, or puffiness in the chest/nipples that does not improve with dieting, exercise, or weight loss. While the condition can affect men at any age, candidates should generally have:
- Excess glandular and fatty tissue in the chest causing puffiness
- Good general health with no unmanaged medical conditions
- Realistic expectations about the final results
- A willingness to not smoke or quit smoking before and after surgery
While overdeveloped breasts affect both teenagers and adults, some cases of gynecomastia resolve after puberty. For those who contend with gynecomastia into adulthood, male breast reduction can help.
How is the Male Breast Reduction Procedure Performed?
Gynecomastia surgery is designed to address the excess glandular tissue and fat deposits that create a fuller chest appearance in men. The outpatient procedure typically utilizes general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of surgery. In order to achieve a flatter, more defined chest contour, any excess fat is removed using liposuction. When firm glandular tissue is present, Dr. Shaw performs surgical excision to resculpt the chest into a smoother, more masculine contour. In situations where both fat and glandular tissue contribute to the appearance of male breasts, both techniques are combined to produce the best aesthetic outcome. Once the chest has been reshaped, the incisions are closed with fine sutures placed in a way that encourages minimal, inconspicuous scarring. A compression garment is applied immediately after surgery to support the new chest contour and assist in reducing swelling.
What Can I Expect From the Recovery Period After Gynecomastia Surgery?
Recovery from gynecomastia surgery is typically relatively quick and tolerable. Patients can expect mild swelling, tightness, and soreness during the first few days, which are easily managed with medication and the support of a compression garment. Most men feel comfortable returning to work or light activities within several days, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be postponed for a few weeks to maximize the healing process. Swelling continues to diminish over the first month, and the chest becomes more defined as the skin naturally contracts. By six weeks, most patients can resume full activity, and final results usually become visible within three to six months as the chest settles and scars fade.
At Shaw Plastic Surgery, Dr. James Shaw and our team are committed to helping men in Wichita and beyond reclaim their confidence and a more masculine body image. Contact Dr. Shaw today for more information or if you’re ready to book a consultation.