Dr. Dan Mills Explains Causes of Gynecomastia and Provides an Overview of Male Breast Reduction Techniques

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Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Dan Mills, says many of his male patients express concern over the accumulation of excess fat and/or tissue in the breasts – a condition known as gynecomastia. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of male breast reduction procedures to treat gynecomastia went from 17,645 in 2011 to 22,736 in 2012. That’s an increase of 29% in a single year. In Dr. Mills’ experience, some of the most common reasons for men developing enlarged breasts are genetics, steroid use, and regular marijuana use. Dr. Mills adds that some male patients taking anti-testosterone drugs for prostate cancer treatment may also have increased breast size due to increased estrogen levels.

Dr. Mills says, although the risk is low, it is important to note that due to the development of breast tissue, men can sometimes be diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society’s latest statistics for 2013, men are approximately 100 times less likely than women to develop breast cancer, and their risk of developing breast cancer is about one in 1,000. However, Dr. Mills cautions that the risk could be increased for male patients with gynecomastia.

Most of Dr. Mills’ patients electing to have male breast reduction for gynecomastia have a combination of both breast tissue and fatty tissue. However, he says if the patient has developed breast tissue alone due to a glandular issue, a small incision can be made and the breast tissue surgically removed. If fatty tissue is causing the problem, it can often be removed through liposuction. In most cases, Dr. Mills uses a combination of the two methods – and in some rare cases, skin excision may be necessary for the best possible results.

Dr. Mills says men seeking breast reduction are typically back to normal routines, without obvious signs of surgical intervention, approximately three or four days post-op. However, they will still need to wear a discreet compression garment under their clothing for several weeks to assist with the healing process.

If you are suffering from gynecomastia and are interested in male breast reduction, please contact the Aesthetic Plastic Surgical Institute for more information, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dan Mills.

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