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How Many Men With Gynecomastia Undergo Male Breast Reduction?

May 5, 2025

Gynecomastia, or enlarged male breast tissue, can be distressing. It affects older boys and men, causing discomfort and embarrassment. In this blog, we explain the benefits of gynecomastia surgery, candidacy requirements, how many men choose to undergo male breast reduction and why they do.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition that causes enlarged breast tissue in men, affecting millions worldwide. It has been stated that this condition affects approximately 32–65% of men. Although changes in lifestyle, medications and diet as well as exercising can sometimes reduce fat in the chest area, true gynecomastia typically requires surgical correction for lasting results. This surgery is also referred to as a male breast reduction.

7 Reasons Men Choose Surgery to Correct Gynecomastia

Below are the top seven reasons male breast reduction surgery appeals to men struggling with gynecomastia:

1. Permanent Results: Unlike weight loss, which may only reduce fat deposits without addressing glandular tissue, gynecomastia surgery removes excess breast tissue and fat, ensuring that the results are long-lasting. Once the glandular tissue is surgically removed, it does not grow back, so patients enjoy a permanent solution.
2. Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem: Many men with gynecomastia experience significant emotional distress due to their chest appearance. They may avoid activities such as swimming, working out at the gym or even wearing fitted clothing. After surgery, patients often report a boost in confidence and feel comfortable in their skin again.
3. Freedom from Social and Psychological Stress: Living with this condition can lead to self-consciousness, anxiety and even depression. Men who have surgery no longer worry about hiding their chest under loose clothing or feel uncomfortable in social situations due to gynecomastia. This newfound freedom can have a profound impact on mental health and quality of life.
4. Improved Physical Appearance and Masculine Contour: Surgery removes excess tissue and sculpts the chest for a more defined appearance. Many men struggle to achieve the masculine chest definition that they desire through exercise alone. Having excess glandular tissue makes this an impossibility. By removing this tissue through male breast reduction surgery, a firmer, flatter chest with improved contours can be achieved.
5. Quick Recovery and Minimal Downtime: Many men are hesitant to consider surgery due to concerns about recovery time. However, modern surgical techniques allow for a relatively quick and smooth healing process. Most patients can return to work within a week and resume light exercise within two to three weeks. The final results will become visible over the following months as the swelling subsides.
6. Precision Surgical Techniques for Optimal Results: Experienced and skilled plastic surgeons use precision and strategically placed incisions to facilitate natural-looking results, minimal scarring and a well-proportioned chest.
7. High Patient Satisfaction Rates: Men who have undergone gynecomastia surgery overwhelmingly report high satisfaction with their results. The vast majority of patients feel that the procedure significantly improves their appearance, self-esteem and overall quality of life.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is a good option for men who:

• Have persistent gynecomastia that doesn’t respond to diet, exercise or medication changes.
• Are in good overall health and free from medical conditions that can affect healing.
• Have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure.
• Experience emotional or psychological distress due to their chest appearance.

During a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, patients receive a personalized evaluation to determine the best surgical approach for their needs.

What Are the Latest Statistics on Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is becoming more popular as awareness and acceptance of male cosmetic procedures grows. Men now realize they don’t have to live with a condition that affects their self-image and confidence.

In the US, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that gynecomastia surgery has become a top procedure for men, with 25,888 having the procedure in 2023, a 6% increase from the previous year and a 23.5% increase from 2019.

The growing number of men choosing to get male breast reduction proves the procedure works for both the physical and emotional challenges of gynecomastia, leading to higher self-esteem and quality of life.

Dr. Turkeltaub: Phoenix, Arizona’s Experienced Gynecomastia Expert

If you have concerns regarding your gynecomastia, consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon can be the first step to a more comfortable and confident life. Dr. Steven H. Turkeltaub is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has 38 years of experience performing cosmetic breast surgeries, including male breast reduction, for men in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and throughout Arizona and beyond. He has the skill and experience that you need in order to achieve the masculine chest that you desire.

To learn more about gynecomastia surgery, schedule your consultation with Dr. Turkeltaub. You can call our office at (480) 451-3000 or complete our online contact form.

Dr. Turkeltaub looks forward to helping you gain the confidence you deserve.