What to Expect with Gynecomastia Surgery:

The medical term for overdeveloped breast in men is gynecomastia. One-third of male teenagers commonly experience breast enlargement, 80% of that number will return to normal in three years or less.  The surgical correction of gynecomastia is technically called breast reduction mammoplasty.  This is the surgical improvement of the size and appearance of the breasts by removing excess breast and skin tissues.  In some cases liposuction alone may be enough to achieve the desired look.  However, it is also common to need to excise glandular breast tissue and skin to get full correction. 

The best candidates are men who are in good physical and psychological health. Dr. Mentz will perform an examination to determine the best treatment for you. If surgery is recommended, in most cases the surgeon can remove the tissue through small incisions on or around the breast.

Surgery may be performed as an outpatient or your physician may recommend an overnight stay. Dr. Mentz may offer a visit to your home by a plastic surgery nurse, trained to assist in your recovery. You can expect to return to work in three to 4 days. Your surgeon will probably tell you to avoid heavy exercise for two to three weeks.

Pectoral Etching
Similarly to the abdominal etching procedure, Dr. Mentz has revolutionized the male breast reduction procedure by pioneering a new technique of not only reducing the size of the male breasts but sculpting them to a more athletic look.  Not all men are candidates for this procedure.  Dr. Mentz will discuss with you your options and help you develop the best strategy for you.

Steroids and Gynecomastia
It may also be important to mention that highly motivated male athletes may be frustrated with the look of their body after reaching a fitness plateau and may resort to the use of anabolic steroids.  Steroids may increase muscle mass but at the expense of potential breast enlargement as well as aggressive behavior or changes in personality