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Excessive breast tissue in men — also known as gynecomastia — is the most common breast disorder for males, impacting an estimated 50% of men in the United States at some point in their lives.1 It can cause embarrassment, social discomfort and irritation during physical activities.
Fortunately, a variety of gynecomastia treatment options are available for men to consider that can reduce or remove enlarged breast tissue, helping them achieve the physique and confidence they want.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition where the breast tissue in a man becomes enlarged or overdeveloped.1 While gynecomastia is not considered physically or medically dangerous, it can have psychological or emotional impacts that may warrant medical treatment.2
Causes
There are various factors that can cause gynecomastia, including hormonal imbalance, medications, drug and alcohol use and a variety of diseases or health concerns.2
Symptoms
The central symptom of gynecomastia is male breast enlargement. The growth may occur in one or both breasts and may often be asymmetrical.3
Some men may also experience breast pain, breast tenderness or nipple sensitivity. However, many men do not experience any significant symptoms.3
Treatments
While gynecomastia can cause embarrassment and discomfort, treatment isn't always medically necessary. If your gynecomastia is caused by hormone changes, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting to see if the enlarged breast tissue goes away on its own, or they may offer hormone therapy.3
If the gynecomastia is caused by medication, your healthcare provider may recommend stopping or changing medication. If the gynecomastia is caused by a health condition, there may be other treatment options to explore.3
Hormone therapy may be able to help reduce breast enlargement from gynecomastia. When gynecomastia is persistent, it can also be treated with surgery.3
How Much Does Gynecomastia Surgery Cost?
The national average cost* for gynecomastia surgery is $4,110, but the cost can range from $3,250 to $12,600.4
This price does not include anesthesia, the surgeon's fee or surgical center costs. The overall cost may vary based on geographic location, surgeon experience and the type of procedures used.4
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Average gynecomastia surgery cost by state/district
Below is the average cost* for gynecomastia surgery in all 50 states and the District of Columbia:4
| State/District | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $3,841 |
| Alaska | $4,088 |
| Arizona | $3,919 |
| Arkansas | $4,221 |
| California | $4,151 |
| Colorado | $4,077 |
| Connecticut | $4,289 |
| Delaware | $4,060 |
| District of Columbia | $4,183 |
| Florida | $4,453 |
| Georgia | $4,122 |
| Hawaii | $3,783 |
| Idaho | $4,182 |
| Illinois | $4,154 |
| Indiana | $4,097 |
| Iowa | $3,900 |
| Kansas | $4,411 |
| Kentucky | $3,988 |
| Louisiana | $4,008 |
| Maine | $4,149 |
| Maryland | $4,168 |
| Massachusetts | $3,888 |
| Michigan | $4,051 |
| Minnesota | $4,105 |
| Mississippi | $4,165 |
| Missouri | $3,950 |
| Montana | $4,123 |
| Nebraska | $4,323 |
| Nevada | $4,002 |
| New Hampshire | $4,276 |
| New Jersey | $4,222 |
| New Mexico | $3,918 |
| New York | $3,939 |
| North Carolina | $3,924 |
| North Dakota | $3,834 |
| Ohio | $4,168 |
| Oklahoma | $4,250 |
| Oregon | $3,948 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,877 |
| Rhode Island | $4,145 |
| South Carolina | $3,924 |
| South Dakota | $3,996 |
| Tennessee | $4,166 |
| Texas | $4,250 |
| Utah | $4,328 |
| Vermont | $4,068 |
| Virginia | $3,950 |
| Washington | $4,073 |
| West Virginia | $4,159 |
| Wisconsin | $4,123 |
| Wyoming | $4,188 |
Does Insurance Cover Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and not covered by health insurance, but if the procedure is addressing gynecomastia caused by an injury, illness or birth defect, it may be considered a reconstructive surgery.5 Check with your provider to see if the procedure may be covered. If not, the surgical center may offer in-house financing, or you can pay for the costs of gynecomastia surgery over time with the CareCredit credit card.**
How Does Gynecomastia Surgery Work?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, may be recommended if other treatment methods have not been successful.6
Procedure
After sedating the patient, a surgeon will use either liposuction or excision to remove the excess tissue and skin.
Liposuction is primarily used when gynecomastia is due to the presence of excess fatty tissue. When there is excess skin or glandular breast tissue that needs to be removed, excess skin will be cut away and the areola repositioned through excision.7
When needed, both procedures can be performed together to help achieve a patient's desired results.7
Recovery
After the procedure, sutures will be used to close any incisions, and the area will be bandaged. An elastic support garment may need to be worn for the first few days to reduce swelling and provide support.8
Recovery from gynecomastia surgery will vary depending on the procedure used. Most patients treated with both liposuction and excision will be able to return to work within seven to 10 days and resume light physical activity within two to three weeks. Your doctor will let you know when you are able to return to normal levels of physical activity.9
Results
Final results from the procedure may take three to six months.10 If your weight stays stable, the results from gynecomastia surgery should be permanent, with most patients satisfied with their results and gaining confidence.1
Potential complications and side effects
Although all surgical procedures carry the potential for some side effects, serious complications from gynecomastia surgery are rare. Potential side effects of the surgery include:11
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Hematoma or seroma
- Infection
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Scarring
Some patients may also not be satisfied with the results of the procedure and need additional procedures to achieve their desired results.11
The likelihood of potential complications can be minimized by being upfront about your medical history with your surgeon and fully following recommended preoperative and postoperative care guidelines.11
The Bottom Line
While gynecomastia may be a common condition affecting many men, treatment options are available to help reduce or eliminate excess breast tissue, including surgery. Feeling more comfortable and confident in your body is important, so consult with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon to determine if gynecomastia surgery may be right for you.
Financing Gynecomastia Surgery With the CareCredit Credit Card
Ready to revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for gynecomastia surgery and related expenses not covered by health insurance.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.
In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?
Author Bio
Kate Bayless is a health and wellness freelance writer with 15 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Parents, Women's Health, Beachbody and OpenFit.
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