Plastic Surgery Trend: Male Breast Reduction
Plastic Surgery Trend: Male Breast Reduction
Plastic Surgery Trend: Male Breast Reduction
AESTHETIC NEWS
Plastic surgery is more affordable and accessible than ever before. Moreover, cosmetic procedures are no longer stigmatized and, research shows, can help boost confidence in both social and professional arenas.
Now, recent data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) indicates that male patients are cornering a larger part of a market that was once dominated by women. The agency’s newest report, which analyzes stats from 2000-2015, tracks notable trends across the multi-billion dollar industry.
Just how prevalent is male plastic surgery in the U.S.? According to the ASPS, men made up three percent of the total breast reduction surgeries performed in the States in 2022.
In 2022, a total of 25,090 men had breast reduction procedures in the States, a 3 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Why the gradual uptick in breast reduction among men? ASPS President Dr. David Song opines that guys are becoming more accepting of cosmetic enhancements to address problem areas that diet and exercise alone won’t fix. Excess breast tissue is often emotionally devastating for men, who may develop body image issues and intimacy problems stemming from embarrassment. Dr. Song says that breast reduction is frequently performed in younger men “who face genetic challenges with the size and shape of their breasts, and when appropriate, surgery can make a big difference in their lives.”
Who is at risk for developing gynecomastia, which is the medical term for the swelling of breast tissue in males? Hormone imbalances, underlying medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or hypogonadism and certain medications can cause the glands to swell. Specifically, certain anti-psychotic medications have been tied to gynecomastia in young males, while drugs that treat prostate enlargement and cancer have also been tied to the condition. Gynecomastia can affect newborn infants, teenagers and adult men – and may resolve on its own over a period of years as testosterone production stabilizes.
However, there are certain cases that do not resolve spontaneously, leaving men to grapple with the psychological effects of living with enlarged breasts. Some patients are so self-conscious about the appearance of puffy nipples and visible breasts that they avoid sports, beaches, and virtually any activity that calls for disrobing or revealing T-shirts.
New York plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas W. Loeb offers several options for his gynecomastia patients. Some patients with small amounts of breast tissue respond well to liposuction alone. This outpatient procedure is well-tolerated and leaves tiny scars that heal quickly in a matter of days.
Larger or more fibrous breasts with excess skin will need a full breast and areola reduction, which usually lasts two to three hours and is performed under local or general anesthesia. Bruising and discomfort are normal post-op side effects, but the recovery period is relatively short. Most patients are back to work within a week and will need to wear a compression garment for one month.
One of Manhattan’s leading practitioners of cosmetic surgery for men, Dr. Loeb analyzes the severity and composition of the breast enlargement before determining which approach is most appropriate.
For more information about male breast reduction surgery with Dr. Loeb, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation by calling 212-327-3700.
