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Breast reduction for men (Gynecomastia)
Not only women are eligible for a breast reduction. Men also sometimes suffer from abnormal breast development, often caused by a hormonal imbalance. Men often feel ashamed of their feminine contour. One in three men suffers from gynecomastia — and the number of breast reductions in men has increased by 142%.
Recovery
Treatment
Anaesthesia
Consultation
Facts about breast reduction for men
The shape of breasts is mainly genetic. Men with abnormal breast development can sometimes have mental and emotional problems. Understandably, men feel uncomfortable in a body with feminine curves. They wear loose clothing and avoid certain situations, such as fitting rooms, changing rooms, and the beach.
Insurance coverage
In the Netherlands, breast reductions are generally reimbursed by your insurance company if provided by approved hospitals or clinics. Amsterdam Plastic Surgery is a modern private clinic focusing on highly discerning clients. We do not work with Dutch insurance companies that demand pricing that cannot be reconciled with the standards of care and attention we give to our patients. If you are insured with one of these companies and choose Dr Pirayesh as your surgeon, you must pay for the surgery yourself. Depending on your policy, your insurance company may decide on an allowance. We will, of course, provide the necessary paperwork. We will always tell you what your specific operation will cost upfront.
It all starts with a consultation
No two men’s bodies are the same. The cosmetic needs and expectations of men are unique. To ensure that you are happy with the result of your treatment, Dr Pirayesh develops a customised surgical plan for each patient. During the consultation, he will take the time to get to know you, discuss your requirements and help you make an informed decision.
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He will ask about your general health and medical history and examine your breasts and skin. He will discuss the desired size and position of your breasts and nipples, explain where the incisions will be made, the results you can expect, and explain the necessary aftercare.
Dr Pirayesh will also answer any questions, give instructions on preparing for the operation, and inform you about the cost.
Breast reduction surgery for men overview and timeline
Duration of the operation: 2 hours
Anaesthesia: light general anaesthetic administered by a specialised anaesthetist
Length of stay: outpatient, you can return home about 4 hours after surgery. You need to be picked up by someone because you cannot drive yourself home.
Post-operation: slight swelling and tenderness. We will give you a sports bra that you have to wear, painkillers, antibiotics, and instructions on wound care.
Complications, very rare: fluid retention, infections, raised, livid scars
Recovery time: you may resume your normal activities one week after surgery, but you must refrain from lifting anything heavier than 5 kilos for the first two weeks and no heavier than 10 kilos for the next four weeks. Also, you have to refrain from lifting weights during this time.
Results: your new breasts no longer make you uncomfortable, you can wear tight shirts, and you no longer feel self-conscious while exercising.
Scarring: the stitches will be removed within a week, and your scars will fade after a few months. Dr Pirayesh has developed a program, APS Scar Care, including aloe vera-based creams, laser treatments, and (if necessary) injections to ensure that your scars heal in the best possible way.
Breast reduction surgery for men in five steps
On the day of your surgery, Dr Pirayesh will mark your breasts while standing so that the current size and position of your breasts and nipples can be determined when you are lying on the surgery table. In addition, photos will be taken for your medical record.
Step 1. Anaesthesia
A specialist anaesthetist will inject a light general anaesthetic into a vein through a cannula (a thin, plastic tube) in your arm or hand. The anaesthetist and his team will monitor you closely throughout the operation, ensuring you are comfortable and safe. The anaesthetist will discuss the anaesthesia before your surgery and answer any questions.
Step 2. The surgery
Excess fat and glandular tissue are removed with a special liposuction cannula. If necessary, excess tissue under the areola is removed through a small incision, which will then be sealed with small sutures.
Step 3. Suturing and bandaging
After all of the excess tissue is removed, the incisions are closed. The incisions will remain permanently visible, although they will, over time, fade significantly. Dr Pirayesh used sutures and/or surgical tape to close the skin and protect the wounds. A small drain may be inserted under the skin to drain excess blood or fluid. The results of your breast lift are immediately visible.
Step 4. Recovery and aftercare
Dr Pirayesh provides specific written instructions about how to take care of your wounds in the weeks after surgery and what medication you should use for optimal healing and minimal risk of infection. When you come to the clinic for follow-up appointments, you will meet with him to discuss details with him and ask questions. Within a week after the operation, he will check the incisions and remove your sutures. After some time, the swelling will subside, and the scars will fade. If you have questions, you can send Dr Pirayesh a WhatsApp message, and he will happily answer your questions. Avoid the solarium or sauna for ten days before and ten days after surgery, and don’t drink alcohol or take blood thinners like aspirin (paracetamol is allowed).
Step 5. Wound healing and scarring
Dr Pirayesh is very savvy when it comes to promoting rapid healing. He has developed a customised regimen, APS Scar Care, including creams based on aloe vera, laser treatments, and (if necessary) injections to ensure that your scars heal in the best possible way.
This regimen has ensured that many of Dr Pirayesh’s patients have hardly noticeable scars. However, it is impossible to pre-determine if patients will have problems with their scars healing.