The Woodlands, TX
Contact Us

Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

Conveniently located to serve Houston and Montgomery County

Home  |  Men’s |  Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

On This Page

quicklink arrow
  1. What is Gynecomastia?
  2. Your Gynecomastia Consultation with Dr. Rivela
  3. Who is a Candidate for Gynecomastia?
  4. Your Gynecomastia Procedure
  5. Your Gynecomastia Procedure Recovery
  6. Male Breast Reduction FAQs

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) is a popular procedure for men with abnormal development of mammary glands resulting in breast enlargement. Dr. Rivela has performed many Gynecomastia surgical procedures. Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) can be the result of heredity, disease, use of certain drugs, or hormonal changes. It is common in men of all ages and can be detrimental to self-confidence and often causes emotional distress. Many men with this condition avoid certain physical activities that require removing their shirts and often find physical intimacy to be a problem. Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) may be present in either one or both of the breasts.

Characteristics of Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) are:

  • An excess of localized fat
  • An excess of glandular tissue development
  • A combination of localized fat and glandular tissue development and excess skin

Your Gynecomastia Consultation with Dr. Rivela

A one-on-one, personal consultation with Dr. Rivela is your time to ask and answer questions. Complete disclosure during the consultation is important for devising a procedural plan tailor-made for you.

Be ready to discuss:

  • Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
  • Expectations and desired outcome
  • Available options
  • All medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs that you are currently taking or using
  • Previous surgical history

Dr. Rivela may also:

  • Evaluate your general health status including pre-existing conditions and risk factors
  • Take photographs for your medical records
  • Discuss your options and recommend a surgical course of action
  • Discuss likely outcome, risks, and potential complications associated with your surgery

If your condition is caused primarily by fatty tissue, liposuction is most likely the procedure of choice to re-sculpt bulging breasts into more attractive contours by removing unwanted localized deposits of fat cells. Additional skin removal may be required for extremely large conditions.

Who is a Candidate for Gynecomastia?

You may be a good candidate for Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) if you are:

  • Within the normal weight range
  • Physically healthy
  • Have realistic expectations
  • A non-smoker and does not use drugs
  • Bothered by feeling that your breasts appear too large

Adolescents may benefit from male breast reduction if breast development has stabilized but may require secondary procedures in the future should breasts further develop.
Gynecomastia

Your Gynecomastia Procedure

Dr. Rivela performs male breast reduction on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Depending upon the extent of correction, the procedure usually takes between 1-3 hours and is performed at either a hospital or outpatient surgery center.

Anesthesia: General

Location of operation: Hospital or surgery center

Length of surgery: 1-3 hours

Length of stay: Outpatient

Your Gynecomastia Procedure Recovery

Discomfort After: After surgery, you may expect moderate to severe pain requiring the use of prescription pain medication for between 5-14 days.

Swelling and Bruising: You may expect swelling and bruising which will begin improving within a couple of weeks.

Bandages: Upon completion of your surgery, bandages will be placed with removal taking place in 1-7 days. A support garment will need to be worn for a couple of weeks after surgery and if drains are placed, they will be removed in 7-10 days.

Work: You may return to work in 5-7 days.

Exercise: You are instructed not to participate in strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks after your procedure.

Driving: As long as you have discontinued pain medication, driving may be resumed in two weeks.

Final result: Final results will be seen anywhere from six months to a year after the scars have matured.

Male Breast Reduction FAQs

Who is a good candidate for Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)?

Any adult male who is in good physical health, is a non-smoker and has realistic expectations about desired outcome. Gynecomastia surgery is an excellent choice for patients interested in removing excess fat and/or tightening muscles to create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

How should I prepare for Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)?

As with any surgery, good overall health is key. Eat a balanced diet, exercise and get plenty of rest. Certain medications must be avoided before surgery, while others may need to be adjusted. Another important factor is having well-controlled blood pressure.nnIt is very important for smokers to stop smoking before the surgery. Smoking is proven to delay healing and can cause wound complications. Beyond these, Dr. Rivela will discuss with you everything required for a successful surgery at the consultation. Be sure to follow Dr. Rivela’s instructions carefully to ensure a speedy recovery.

What factors should be considered when selecting a surgeon?

Always choose a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Be sure he is trained and experienced in all areas of plastic surgery. He should have at least five years of surgical experience, no less than two being in the field of plastic surgery.nnDr. Rivela has trained under some of the country’s leading plastic surgeons and has membership in numerous medical societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgery and he is accredited by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. As a skilled surgeon, he has successfully performed many Gynecomastia procedures.

Will the results be long lasting?

In many cases, the results are permanent, however, if Gynecomastia is the result of the use of steroids or weight gain, you must remain drug free and maintain your weight in order to obtain the best results.nnAlthough scars are permanent, they may be concealed in the natural contours of your breast and the improvement in the appearance of your upper body will enhance your confidence at the office or on the beach.

What can I expect during recovery?

Bandages will be applied after surgery. An elastic support garment may be used to support your chest contour during healing. A thin tube may be placed under the skin temporarily to drain excess fluid that may collect.nnYou will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site, medications to take orally or apply during the healing process, and you will be informed of any specific concerns to be aware of during healing. You will also be instructed on when to follow up with Dr. Rivela.