High Definition Male Breast Reduction in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Gynecomastia is common, but it is also very treatable. A simple surgical procedure called male breast reduction can remove this unwanted tissue and restore masculine contours to your chest appearance. Take your shirt off without feeling embarrassed and hop in the pool without hesitation. Contact Dr. Tiffany Ballard, and Dr. Pramit Malhotra to learn more about male breast reduction in Ann Arbor, MI.
Insider Tips from the Surgeons at Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery
Treating breast development in men often requires a multi-faceted approach.
We often combine liposuction (to remove fat) with surgical excision (to remove glandular tissue). Most men with breast development have a section of fibrous tissue under the nipple. This tissue won’t go away with weight loss. Treating both the excess fat and the fibrous tissue delivers a masculine chest contour.
Most men will develop breast tissue at some point during their lifetime.
Having breast tissue as a man doesn’t mean you’re overweight or unhealthy. We see this condition in every type of man, including athletes and bodybuilders. In fact, most men will develop breast tissue at some point during their lifetime.
Loss of nipple sensation is common after this procedure.
Loss of nipple sensation is common after this procedure. Most of our patients find the increased confidence offsets any loss in sensation.
We use high definition techniques.
We use high definition techniques to define the lateral border of the chest muscle.
We typically use a drainless technique or rubber band technique instead of a large drain.
Before 
After 
Before 
After What Causes Breast Development in Men?
Most men will experience breast development during their lifetime. This condition is very common. In fact, an estimated 70% of male teens experience unwanted or excess breast tissue. It is most common in newborn males, teens, and older men, although it can occur at any age.
Gynecomastia is a complex condition with many potential causes. Some factors that may contribute to the development of breast tissue in men include:
- Hormonal changes
- Medication – including anti-depressants, some antibiotics, AIDS medications, heart medications, ADHD medications, chemotherapy, and anxiety medications.
- Street drugs – including marijuana, heroin, and amphetamines
- Steroid use medical conditions – including kidney failure, thyroid problems, malnutrition, liver problems, and hypogonadism
- Herbal products – including products that contain tea tree or lavender oil
If you have unwanted breast development, talk with your doctor. Some men find the issue resolves itself when underlying medical conditions are treated, medications are adjusted, or lifestyle changes are made. If these don’t provide the desired level of correction, surgery is an effective solution for this common problem.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
Our patients are very satisfied with the results of their male breast reduction. We’d love to discuss the many benefits of this procedure with you at a consultation.
Potential benefits include:
- Feel more confident in your chest appearance
- Freedom to wear more clothing styles including tight and fitted tops
- Create a masculine chest contour
- Reduce or eliminate teasing
Our patients tell us that the surgery changes how they feel about themselves. They love being able to participate in water and outdoor activities without worrying about their chest appearance.
Options For Gynecomastia Treatment in Michigan
There are many options for male breast reduction. Talk with one of our plastic surgeons to receive personalized advice about the most effective option for you. At Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery, we use advanced techniques to ensure best results. Our surgeons perform many male breast reduction procedures and are highly experienced in creating a customized surgical plan for each patient.
Puffy Nipple or Areola
Removing the glandular tissue under the nipple will often resolve puffiness in the nipple or areola. Liposuction is rarely needed.
Liposuction
In rare cases, liposuction can produce a good result for male breast reduction. Most of the time we combine liposuction with glandular resection.
Glandular Resection + Liposuction
The fibrous tissue behind the nipple is removed and liposuction is performed to contour and shape the chest area.
Male Breast Reduction with a Lift
Moderate to severe gynecomastia may require skin removal. We typically use a peri-areolar incision (around the areola) to remove skin while minimizing visible scarring. Glandular tissue is removed and liposuction may be performed to create masculine chest contours.
Two-Stage Surgery
Some patients benefit from a two-stage surgery. First, the glandular resection and liposuction are performed. Then, we wait for the skin to contract and tighten. After healing, any excess skin that remains is removed, either in an operating room or using local anesthetic at our clinic.
Some surgeons may use other techniques for male breast reduction, including a full breast reduction with a horizontal scar. This procedure leaves significant scarring. We’ve chosen not to offer this technique as our surgeons achieve better aesthetic results using other surgical methods.
Am I A Good Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?
Countless Michigan men have shed excess breast tissue at Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery. We typically perform this procedure on:
- Young men that are embarrassed to remove their shirt due to male breast development
- Highly athletic men, including bodybuilders, that are in excellent shape, but have some excess breast tissue they want to eliminate
- Men that have lost significant weight and have loose skin or excess fat remaining in the chest area
The best candidates are usually at a healthy weight and in overall good health. Our surgeons can help you decide if male breast reduction is right for you during a personal, one-on-one consultation.
Male Breast Reduction Candidate
Dr. Pramit Malhotra talks about who’s a good candidate for male breast reduction. Is liposuction alone enough?
Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery
Recovery after your procedure will depend on the extent of your surgery.
- Post-operative swelling is common, but patients report immediate improvement in their chest contours.
- Your surgeon may ask you to wear a compression garment for approximately two weeks after surgery.
- Limit sports and intense physical activity for two to six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and enjoy a quick recovery. We’ll provide detailed care instructions prior to your procedure so that you will know what to expect.
Is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Painful?
You will be under anesthesia during the procedure so you won’t feel any discomfort. After surgery, some discomfort and swelling are expected, but your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative pain.
How Long Does the Recovery Process Take?
Recovery time from male breast reduction surgery varies for each individual, but most patients can expect to resume most daily activities within a two weeks. However, working out and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least three to four weeks after your procedure.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Like any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects, such as bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon to minimize these risks is essential.
How Long Does The Male Breast Reduction Surgery Take?
The duration of the surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure. On average, it takes about one to two hours to perform.
Will There Be Visible Scars After the Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Scarring is a normal part of any surgical procedure. However, the incisions for male breast reduction surgery are typically small and strategically placed to minimize visibility. Over time, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable.
Will Health Insurance Cover My Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Health insurance may cover the cost of male breast reduction if it is deemed medically necessary due to the severity of gynecomastia or related psychological effects. However, you should check with your insurance provider to understand their coverage policies. Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery does provide finance options.
Can Male Breast Reduction Surgery Address Sagging or Loose Skin?
If sagging or loose skin is present along with enlarged breasts, additional procedures like skin tightening treatments may be necessary to achieve your desired results. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific situation and discuss the appropriate treatment plan.
Are There Any Specific Precautions to Take Before Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Your surgeon will provide pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you to and from the surgery.
Breast development in men is a common concern but easily treated. Learn more by contacting Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery to schedule your gynecomastia consultation in Ann Arbor, MI.