Male Breast Reduction vs. Liposuction: How to Choose
When it comes to body contouring and achieving a more masculine chest, many men consider two common procedures: male breast reduction and liposuction. Both methods can eliminate unwanted fat and improve body aesthetics, but they serve different purposes and target different concerns.
With over 20 years of experience as a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, body contouring specialist, Dr. Joshua Greenwald is dedicated to helping you understand which treatment may be right for you.
After performing thousands of successful breast surgeries in both men and women, he has an unmatched level of expertise and skill, making him stand out among NY plastic surgeons.
Dr. Greenwald believes information sharing is crucial in helping our patients understand their options and reach their goals. This month, our blog covers the two main approaches for extra breast tissue in men to help you choose the best one.
Understanding Male Breast Reduction
Male breast reduction is surgery that addresses either gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia.
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition where men develop larger-than-normal breast tissue due to hormonal changes, genetics, or other factors. True gynecomastia involves excessive glandular tissue growth. Men with gynecomastia may also have excess fatty tissue in their breasts.
Pseudogynecomastia
In pseudogynecomastia, men have enlarged breasts due to fatty tissue. It’s often related to weight gain but can occur with age too.
Both gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia can cause the chest to appear more traditionally feminine. This causes self-consciousness, embarrassment, and a lack of confidence for many men.
In male breast reduction surgery, Dr. Greenwald removes the excess tissue, including glandular tissue, fat, and skin. So, in many cases, male breast reduction surgery merges several techniques, including liposuction (fat removal,) skin excision, and glandular tissue excision.
Exploring Liposuction for Chest Contouring
Liposuction targets localized fat deposits that don’t respond well to diet and exercise. It’s not just for the chest: Many patients use liposuction for body contouring in the abdomen, thighs, and other body parts.
Dr. Greenwald creates very small incisions for liposuction, so it’s considered a minimally invasive procedure. Through those incisions, he suctions excess fat. Then, the chest returns to a flatter contour.
Which Procedure is Right for You?
Both male breast reduction and liposuction have their advantages, but choosing the right procedure depends on your specific goals.
If you have gynecomastia or pronounced pseudogynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery is likely the best approach.
But, if you have pseudogynecomastia and only mild skin sagging, liposuction could be a great option. More significant sagging might require male breast reduction surgery because it can also include skin excision.
Male Breast Reduction and Lipo in NYC and Harrison, NY
At Dr. Greenwald’s practice, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. We work closely with you to determine the right approach to give your chest the flat, defined contour you want. Call 914-421-0113 to schedule a consultation at our Harrison, NY, or NYC office.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.