The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons announced that for the second straight year, breast reduction for men is the fastest-growing cosmetic procedure in the United Kingdom. According to the report, the number of such operations rose 80 percent, from 323 in 2008 to 581 last year. In the United States, it is the fourth most common surgery among males. There were 19,124 male breast reduction surgeries performed in 2008., that is a 71% increase within the last ten years, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. Last year’s figures are not yet available.

Sometimes referred to as “man breasts” or “man boobs”, gynecomastia is not a new problem. The presence of gynecomastia in a young male can be psychologically traumatic. Media coverage, men’s magazines, and television have significantly increased awareness. In addition, men are just realizing that they can get something done about gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia is a very easily treated deformity of the male breast. Liposuction is often enough to provide a masculine contour. Laser or ultrasound assisted liposuction is often utilized to aid in breaking up the more fibrotic fat in this area. When the male breast is more developed excision of the excess skin may be necessary to avoid a sagging appearance. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis. Patients are encouraged to use a compression garment after the procedure to aid in shaping the area. Read more about gynecomastia here.

Thanks for reading,

Frank Agullo, MD