Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia in San Francisco, CA
Male Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia is the enlargement of the male breasts. It most often occurs with puberty and can sometimes resolve over time. Some drugs, such as steroids, can cause it, and some medical problems that affect a man’s hormone levels can also be the cause of gynecomastia. If drug and medical hormonal abnormalities are ruled out as the cause, and time has been given for the gynecomastia to resolve on its own without improvement, then plastic surgery by board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Leonard Gray, can be considered at Bay Area Plastic Surgery in San Francisco, CA. The surgery has become increasingly popular over the years.
Until recently, there have only been the options of liposuction and direct excision through a relatively large incision at the nipple/areola area. However, Dr. Gray is very excited to bring to his practice an exciting new technique using liposuction and excision of the gland through small liposuction incisions only that are placed laterally on the side of the chest. There is no large scar at the nipple/areola area. The self-consciousness of having large male breasts is not replaced with self-consciousness regarding scarring. Therefore, there is no reason for a man not to take his shirt off following male breast reduction surgery.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is most often the result of hormonal imbalance, in which estrogen levels are relatively higher than testosterone levels in men. This shift can stimulate the growth of glandular breast tissue.
Several factors can contribute, including:
- Puberty: Hormonal fluctuations during adolescence are the most common cause, and in many cases the condition resolves naturally over time.
- Aging: As testosterone production decreases with age, men can experience increased breast tissue development.
- Medications: Steroids, certain antidepressants, heart medications, and treatments for prostate conditions can trigger gynecomastia.
- Lifestyle factors: Excessive alcohol use, marijuana, and anabolic steroid use are linked to male breast enlargement.
- Medical conditions: Disorders affecting the liver, thyroid, or testicles can contribute to hormonal imbalance.
For some men, the cause cannot be pinpointed, which is why consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Leonard Gray is the most effective way to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Benefits of Male Breast Reduction
Undergoing gynecomastia surgery offers physical, psychological, and lifestyle benefits. Patients frequently report improvements in:
- Chest Contour: A flatter chest creates a more masculine appearance.
- Clothing Fit: Shirts, suits, and athletic wear fit more comfortably and look better.
- Self-Confidence: Many men feel freer to remove their shirt at the beach, gym, or in social settings without embarrassment.
- Posture & Comfort: Reducing excess tissue can improve balance and reduce tension across the upper body.
- Active Lifestyle: With improved confidence, many men are motivated to exercise and maintain their results.
These long-term benefits are why gynecomastia surgery has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for men in the Bay Area.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?
You may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery if:
- You have persistent breast enlargement that has not improved with time, diet, or exercise.
- You are in good overall health without medical conditions that impair healing.
- You have a stable weight and realistic expectations for results.
- You are a non-smoker or can stop smoking before and after surgery.
- You are bothered by the appearance of your chest and want a more masculine contour.
The best way to determine candidacy is a consultation with Dr. Gray, who will evaluate your anatomy, medical history, and goals.
Gynecomastia Surgical Technique
Before male breast surgery is recommended, the surgeon will perform a variety of tests and possibly prescribe medications to see if any improvement occurs. If the breast enlargement persists, surgery is an option. Mild cases of gynecomastia are corrected with liposuction. Small incisions are made surrounding the areola where suction tubes (cannulas) are inserted to extract fat and breast tissues. When the enlargement is severe, a longer incision is done to excise breast tissues and loose skin. Skin tightening may also be incorporated and the nipples repositioned so that they are proportional to the new chest shape.
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Instilling Beauty
Inspiring Confidence
Dr. Gray is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience conducting surgical procedures of the breast, body, and face. His emphasis on patient education and attention to detail have made him the top choice for plastic surgery in the Bay Area. Dr. Gray invites you to meet with him for a friendly and informative consultation.
During & After Male Breast ReductionSurgery
Male breast reduction surgery uses general anesthesia and is performed in an accredited surgical facility. The operation lasts up to an hour. It is normal to have bruising and swelling around the chest area for the first couple of weeks. A compression garment must be worn for about 2 weeks to help with reshaping and healing. Most patients are able to return to their normal routine after a few days but must avoid any strenuous physical activities, especially ones that will put pressure on the chest. Results are generally satisfactory with patients regaining their confidence in situations where their chests are bared.
Cost of Gynecomastia Surgery in San Francisco
The cost of gynecomastia surgery in San Francisco varies depending on the complexity of your case, the surgical technique used, and operating facility and anesthesia fees. During your consultation, Dr. Gray will provide a personalized surgical plan and an exact cost estimate. Bay Area Plastic Surgery also offers financing options to make treatment more accessible.
Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery
Recovery from male breast reduction is generally smooth and well-tolerated:
- Week 1: Some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort are expected. You’ll wear a compression garment to support healing.
- Weeks 2–3: Most patients return to work and light daily activities. Swelling begins to subside.
- Weeks 4–6: Exercise and heavy lifting should still be avoided, but light cardio can resume.
- 6–8 Weeks: Most restrictions are lifted, and you can return to weight training and chest workouts.
Final results typically become more visible after three to six months as swelling resolves and the chest takes on its new shape.
Your Solution to Gynecomastia Starts Here
If gynecomastia has been holding you back, you don’t have to live with the physical and emotional discomfort any longer. Dr. Leonard Gray offers advanced, scar-minimizing male breast reduction techniques that restore confidence and create a more masculine chest contour.
Take the first step today. Call Bay Area Plastic Surgery at (415) 434-8858 or schedule your consultation online to learn how Dr. Gray can help you achieve lasting results. We are located in San Francisco and proudly serve the greater Bay Area.
Male Breast Reduction Surgery (Gynecomastia) FAQs
This condition must not be confused with a false gynecomastia, also known as pseudogynecomastia, in which the enlargement is caused by fat deposits instead of breast tissue development. The plastic surgeon will be able to determine this by physical examinations or lab tests during the initial consultation. If it is a case of excessive fat tissues on the chest, the approach in treatment is the same when removing excess fat tissues in any part of the body. Proper diet and exercises are initially recommended before considering any surgical treatment. However, if the issue persists, a liposuction – sometimes even combined with a lift – may be performed to reshape the chest.
Gynecomastia, unfortunately, hides the normal chest muscles that lie underneath the layers of overdeveloped breast tissue. For those who have severe gynecomastia, it is even possible that the overgrowth of breast tissue has developed into internal scarring. With a breast reduction surgery, all excess fat and breast tissues will be removed and the pectoralis muscles will be spared so that they can become more visible. With proper diet and exercise after the surgery, men will be able to tone and strengthen their chest muscle to regain the chest’s natural form.
Liposuction is the primary approach in extracting fat or any soft tissues. Because it uses a small cannula to vacuum the fat out, it is a less invasive approach compared to excising the tissue, which requires longer incisions. There are liposuction options that are even less invasive. These options will be provided with more details prior to the surgical plan so the patient can consider all factors and ultimately decide which technique is preferred.
If the breast reduction technique uses liposuction, the incisions will be minimal and will be placed around or near the areola. The plastic surgeon will make every effort when it comes to making the incisions and suturing to minimize the effects of scarring.
The cost of your gynecomastia surgery in the Bay Area will depend on several factors, including the extent of your condition, the amount of time your procedure will take, what methods will be employed, and more. For this reason, you must meet with Dr. Gray for a one-on-one consultation. We offer plastic surgery financing options for those interested.
Unlike many plastic surgeries that are done for aesthetic purposes, Gynecomastia occasionally may be covered by your health insurance if it being done for medical purposes. The primary factor in determining if gynecomastia is covered by insurance is whether it is deemed ‘medically necessary’ by your doctor and your insurance provider.
Some reasons why your insurance include might cover it:
- if the condition is causing moderate to severe chest pain that creates a functional or physical impairment
- if the gynecomastia persists after you have stopped taking prescription medication, recreational drugs, or substances that are known to cause gynecomastia, and
- Gynecomastia must be present for two years. You also must have a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of the condition, including liver enzymes, serum creatinine, and thyroid studies.
To find out more about if your insurance will cover gynecomastia surgery, speak with your insurance provider.
Working out and living an active lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to maintain your gynecomastia results after surgery. Dr. Gray encourages all of his male breast reduction patients to exercise regularly once they are sufficiently healed. You should be able to resume exercising after about one month. When you do return to the gym, you will need to limit the intensity of your workout to cardio exercises and other activities that won’t interfere with your healing process. It’s crucial that you refrain from arm or chest workouts until you are fully healed, which generally takes about six to eight weeks.
It’s normal for swelling to increase after surgery, usually peaking around 5-6 days after gynecomastia surgery. After that, the swelling will subside—rapidly at first and then gradually. After one month, you’ll think the swelling is gone, but it can go down even more at three to six months.
Gynecomastia surgery is a permanent procedure due to its ability to remove excess skin, glandular tissue, and fat. However, certain factors can lead to the appearance of gynecomastia returning after surgery. For example, significant weight gain, the use of certain medications, hormonal changes, or underlying medical conditions could cause the development of new breast tissue or fat in the chest area.
To maintain the results of gynecomastia surgery, adopting healthy habits and being mindful of potential triggers is essential. A stable weight is key, so focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise, including strength training and cardio, to prevent fat accumulation in the chest. Keeping hormone levels in check with the help of your doctor can also reduce the risk of recurrence. It’s important to avoid substances like anabolic steroids, recreational drugs, and excessive alcohol, as these can contribute to the development of gynecomastia.
Additionally, follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, such as wearing your compression garments for the recommended time and attending all follow-up appointments with Dr. Gray, to support your recovery and long-term results. You should also learn which medications might cause hormonal changes and consult your doctor if you have concerns. These proactive steps can help you enjoy lasting benefits from your procedure.
Yes, significant weight loss or gain can affect the results of your gynecomastia surgery. If you gain weight after the procedure, fat can accumulate in your chest area, potentially diminishing the appearance of your results. On the other hand, substantial weight loss might lead to loose skin in the chest, depending on factors like skin elasticity and how much weight you lose.
To maintain your results, it’s a good idea to aim for a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. These habits will support your surgical outcomes and also benefit your overall health. If you’re considering any major changes in weight, discussing them with Dr. Gray or your primary healthcare professional to help you plan effectively.
The ideal age for gynecomastia surgery largely depends on the individual and their physical development. Generally, it’s recommended to wait until puberty has concluded, which is typically around 17 to 18 years of age. This is because gynecomastia that develops during adolescence often resolves on its own as hormone levels stabilize.
For adults, the decision to undergo surgery is based on personal factors, including how much the condition affects you physically or emotionally. As long as you’re in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results, there’s no upper age limit for the procedure. A consultation with a qualified surgeon is the best way to determine if the timing is right for you.
Results from gynecomastia surgery are considered permanent because glandular tissue and fat are removed. However, factors like weight gain, hormonal changes, or steroid use can cause recurrence.
Yes. In many cases, Dr. Gray can adjust the size or position of the areola for a more proportionate, masculine appearance.
Yes. Many patients choose to combine chest reduction with abdominal or flank liposuction to enhance their overall body contour.
Most patients report only mild to moderate discomfort, which is easily managed with oral pain medication in the first few days after surgery.
You’ll notice a flatter chest immediately after surgery, though swelling will temporarily obscure final results. Improvements continue to refine over several months.