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Male and Female Breast Reduction: What Is the Difference?


Charles A. Messa, III, MD, FACS
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Posted August 10, 2021 in Breast Reduction, Gynecomastia Surgery

2 Minute Read: 

Irrespective of gender, having overly large breasts can hinder emotional wellbeing and affect everyday life. Breast reduction in both men and women is performed to remove excess breast tissue and skin from the chest to create a personalized transformation. 

This means that men and women have different needs when it comes to the procedure.

Man and woman standing shoulder to shoulder with arms crossed against a gray background.

What Is the Difference Between Male and Female Breast Reduction?

The Result

Male breast reduction (gynecomastia surgery) is different from female breast reduction in many ways. 

For starters, male breast reduction removes nearly all excess fat and tissue, whereas female breast reduction only minimizes the size of the breasts.

Unlike a woman’s breast reduction, male breast reduction helps to define the pectoral muscles to create a firmer and better-contoured chest appearance. 

For women, the goal is to reduce oversized breasts and lift them to a more appealing position.

Male breast reduction surgery, known to many as gynecomastia surgery (since it treats the condition referred to as gynecomastia), is now one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for men. 

The Process

Since male breast reduction aims to remove the breast tissue completely, the incision patterns and tissue removal process differ from women having breast reduction. 

The incisions vary depending on how much tissue needs to be removed, but typically, the scars left behind after a male breast reduction are minimal. This is especially important for men since their chest will be exposed when shirtless.

Women see more visible scarring, but Dr. Messa attempts to make all incisions as inconspicuous as possible by hiding them in the areola region or on the creases of the breast, where they are covered with bras and bathing suits.

Additionally, since true gynecomastia constitutes more tissues than fat, surgical reduction/excision is required. In cases where there is excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques are used.

Illustration of male breast reduction surgery techniques.

Versus:

Illustration of the three different incision options available for breast reduction: anchor, lollipop, and donut.

Reasons for Breast Reduction

For the most part, women seek breast reduction to alleviate pain and discomfort and the negative self-image that comes with having overly large breasts. 

On the other hand, men seek to address gynecomastia by removing all traces of breast tissue to make the chest completely flat. Excess breast tissue in men creates a non-masculine physique that causes emotional discomfort and lack of confidence.

Interested in Male or Female Breast Reduction in Weston, FL?

The only way to tell if a breast reduction is right for your needs is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Messa. 

During your appointment, he will discuss your options and likely outcomes. This way you will have a realistic expectation of what to expect from your breast reduction. Contact us today at 954-659-7760 or 877-250-8117 or fill our online contact form.

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