Breast Reduction for Men

Gynecomastia is an endocrine system disorder causing overly-developed or enlarged breasts in men. This often sensitive topic is not uncommon for men and can easily be corrected by our cosmetic specialists through surgery, liposuction or both.

As with any surgery, breast reduction surgery has risks, like infection, pain and bleeding. Your cosmetic surgeon will discuss all the possible risks and benefits with you before you decide to have breast reduction surgery. At Henry Ford, our cosmetic experts are highly trained and use the most advanced surgical techniques to help you look and feel your best.

About gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is generally most noticeable in men with massive weight loss, during puberty or later in life in response to hormonal changes.

You may develop enlarged chest tissue after losing a significant amount of weight, especially after bariatric surgery. Skin does not retract after you lose fat, so excess skin lays on your chest. The skin can be unattractive, uncomfortable and you skin can begin to breakdown from moisture and irritation.

If you develop enlarged breasts during puberty, generally your chest will decrease in size in your 20s. If you still have overly-developed breasts during your late teens, we can correct your gynecomastia with hormone control or weight loss. However, for the vast majority, it will not likely resolve if still present after puberty.

When you are older, the development of breast tissue or chest fat deposit is in response to normal hormone changes. Once you develop gynecomastia at this age, it is unlikely to resolve.

If the development of breast tissue is asymmetric, painful or associated with nipple discharge, this could be a sign of something more serious. You should not ignore these symptoms and should contact your physician immediately.

Frequently asked questions

Will I develop large breasts again after breast reduction surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is generally permanent but with aging, any significant weight gain or loss, the use of steroids, hormones or marijuana, can cause changes to your appearance. Therefore, you may prefer to undergo surgery at a later date to help maintain your appearance throughout life.

Will my scars be noticeable after surgery?

Your scars will appear under your nipple areola and blend-in well. The more skin you have removed, the longer the scars. Your scars can easily be covered with a tank top.

Will my insurance cover this surgery?

Breast reduction surgery for men can be covered by insurance under specific criteria. Unilateral surgery may be covered for significant asymmetry or pain. Removal of a mass or bump may be covered by insurance, however mass removal will not correct the entire deformity. 

Will I lose nipple sensation after my breast reduction surgery?

It depends. In most cases you will not lose nipple sensation after this surgery. However, if you have gynecomastia and have had massive weight loss, then your nipples may be too low or in the wrong position. To fix your nipple position, the nipple will have to be moved when your excess skin is removed, causing a loss in nipple sensation.

Can men get breast cancer?

Yes, men can have breast cancer, however, there is no correlation between gynecomastia and male breast cancer. If you notice a painful, firm bump or mass on your chest contact one of our certified surgeons for a consultation. This is covered by your insurance.