Gynecomastia is a primarily benign condition in which the male breast becomes enlarged on one or both sides. Genetic predisposition is a major determining factor for developing gynecomastia; occasionally, an underlying hormone disorder or drug reaction is responsible. Gynecomastia can sometimes be a function of increased weight or body fat percentage, however, genetically predisposed individuals may be lean and still have a localized collection of fatty tissue in the breast area. This tissue is unlikely to respond to diet or exercise.

Liposuction is an effective method of treating patients who are uncomfortable with the aesthetic appearance of enlarged breasts. Liposuction is an in-office surgical procedure in which fat and breast gland tissue is permanently removed from beneath the skin through a very narrow tube-like instrument called a cannula. The tiny incisions used to insert the cannula can be located so they are virtually undetectable after healing. The procedure is performed with a local anesthetic solution which minimizes bruising and discomfort, and with a mild sedative, if desired.

Healing time varies among individuals, but most patients are able to resume normal activities of daily living (excluding exercise) in 2 days; light exercise in one to 2 weeks; and regular exercise thereafter.