It’s not unusual for a woman with overly large natural breasts to seek to have reduction surgery. The reasons are often a mix of both physical and emotional, even social factors.
Conversely, while many men suffer from enlarged breasts, a condition clinically known as gynecomastia, few have the surgery with Dr. Frank to correct the problem. Instead, they simply avoid taking off their shirt or tolerate the “man boob” jokes from friends. That’s not good for anyone’s self-esteem.
It’s usually not simply due to weight gain
Gynecomastia, commonly known as abnormal male breast enlargement, is frequently associated with teenage boys. This is largely due to hormonal shifts around this period, as well as excess body weight gained throughout childhood. Recently, as the procedure has received more attention, older patients in their 50’s & 60’s have considered the procedure. The question is — is there a top age limit for male breast reduction? The short answer is — it depends.
There is no specific age limit in reducing the appearance of enlarged male breasts via surgery. Older men can still go through the procedure as long as they’re generally healthy and have no existing health issues that could potentially increase the risk of complications from anesthesia and the surgery itself.
Skin laxity can be a problem with breast reduction on older men. After the excess glandular tissue is removed, the skin needs to tighten down to its new slimmer contours. Otherwise, the procedure is somewhat pointless. So, when you’re in for your consultation with Dr. Frank, he will assess how elastic or inelastic your skin is. The maturity that comes with the passing years also allows older patients to have a more realistic view of this surgery and what it can, and cannot, improve. So, know that age alone is not a deciding factor in whether or not male breast reduction surgery would be effective.
The procedure
Male breast reduction surgery with Dr. Frank is not an overly difficult procedure. Under a general anesthesia, first, liposuction via tiny incisions is performed to remove excess fat. Excess breast glands may be removed through a tiny incision made beneath the areola (the dark portion of nipples). The procedure can take from two to three hours with initial recovery lasting two-4 weeks, with full recovery at about 6-8 weeks.
If you have enlarged breasts, you don’t have to “man up” and live with them. You may have gynecomastia and no matter what you do you can’t decrease your breasts. If you have questions, call Dr. Frank at (403) 245-1228 and set up a consultation for male breast reduction.
