# Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia Surgery) > A **male breast reduction** is a procedure used to reduce the signs of **gynecomastia**, or enlarged male breasts. - Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/male-breast-reduction - Category: [Breast Augmentation](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/breast-augmentation) - Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md - Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer ## Overview A **male breast reduction** is a procedure used to reduce the signs of gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts. This surgery removes excess skin, fat and glandular tissue, restoring the breast to a firmer, more masculine shape. ## The procedure The surgeon will use various liposuction techniques to reduce the size of the breast and contour a masculine shape. This process can eliminate creases that form under the male breast due to sagging and size. In cases where there is an excessive amount of skin and fatty tissue a surgeon might perform tissue excision, this will leave more scarring than the liposuction technique. ## Candidate information - **Description:** A male breast reduction is ideal for those who suffer from gynecomastia, these characteristic make the ideal gynaecomastia candidates: ### Criteria - Healthy, emotionally stable men of all ages - Men with larger breasts wanting to reduce them - Men who are self-conscious about their breasts/pectorals - Patients with realistic expectations ## Preparation - **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery ### Medical tests - **Complete blood count (CBC)** - **ECG if over 40 years old** - **Chest X-ray if indicated** - **COVID-19 test if required** ### Medications #### Medications to discuss stopping - **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior - **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior #### Medications to continue - **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky** - **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation ### Lifestyle - **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications - **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery - **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**) ### Arrangements - **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive - **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours** - **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials - **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies - **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure) - **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery ## Recovery and aftercare The recovery period varies for each patient with vigorous exercise being completely off limits within the first **3 to 4 weeks**. To minimize swelling, a compression garment is worn post surgery. The total healing time can be anything from **7 weeks to 10 weeks**. ## Expected results Most patients see **immediate improvement** in chest contour, with final results becoming apparent as swelling subsides over **3-6 months**. ## Frequently asked questions ### What causes gynecomastia? Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal imbalances, certain medications, health conditions, obesity, or aging. Sometimes the cause is unknown. ### Will the results of male breast reduction be permanent? Yes, the results are typically permanent. However, significant weight gain, steroid use, or certain medical conditions could cause recurrence. ### What are the normal side effects after male breast reduction? Normal side effects include soreness, bruising, swelling, and general discomfort. These typically subside within a few weeks. ### What causes gynecomastia (male breast enlargement)? Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal imbalances during puberty or aging, certain medications, medical conditions, obesity, or genetics. **Dr Maresky** will evaluate underlying causes during consultation and may recommend hormone testing if appropriate. ### Am I a good candidate for male breast reduction? Good candidates are healthy men bothered by excess breast tissue that hasn't improved with diet and exercise, have realistic expectations, are at a stable weight, and don't smoke. Both teenagers and adults can be candidates depending on individual circumstances. ### What techniques are used for male breast reduction? Treatment depends on tissue composition. Liposuction alone works for primarily fatty tissue. Glandular tissue may require surgical excision through a small periareolar incision. Many cases need a combination approach. **Dr Maresky** customizes the technique to your anatomy. ### How long is recovery after male breast reduction? Most patients return to desk work within **1 week** and resume light exercise at **2-3 weeks**. Compression garments are worn for **4-6 weeks**. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous chest exercises for **4-6 weeks**. Final results are visible at **3-6 months**. ### Will there be visible scars after male breast reduction? Scarring is minimal with liposuction (tiny 3-4mm incisions). If tissue excision is needed, incisions are placed around the areola border where they're well-concealed. Scars fade significantly within **6-12 months** and are typically very discrete. ## Indicative pricing - Estimate: R60,000 to R85,000 ZAR - Cost factor: Fat vs glandular tissue - Cost factor: Liposuction only vs excision - Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/male-breast-reduction - Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation. ## Consultation and contact - Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation - Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact