Gynecomastia
Surgery

Most cases of gynecomastia involve both excess fat and true glandular (breast) tissue. Liposuction alone removes the fat but leaves the glandular component, resulting in a hard, visible disc beneath the nipple. Excision alone removes the gland but leaves a surrounding fat shelf.

Dr. Mata uses a combined approach — VASER-assisted liposuction to contour the surrounding fat and direct excision to remove the glandular tissue. The result is a smooth, flat chest without residual fullness or visible surgical evidence.

Gynecomastia has several common causes. Pubertal gynecomastia affects up to 60% of adolescent boys, often resolving on its own but sometimes persisting. Adult-onset gynecomastia can result from hormonal changes, medications (some blood pressure drugs, anti-androgens, and others), anabolic steroid use, or weight gain.

Surgery is appropriate when the condition has persisted for at least 12 months and hormonal causes have been addressed. Dr. Mata will review potential causes at consultation to ensure surgery is the right answer and that results will be durable.

Recovery from gynecomastia surgery is less intense than most patients expect. Most men return to desk work within a week, and the compression garment — worn for 4 weeks — is tolerable under normal clothing.

Gym activity, including lower-body lifting, typically resumes at 3–4 weeks. Chest-specific exercises wait until 6–8 weeks to protect the surgical result.