Gynecomastia

Schedule

Breast development, or gynecomastia, in boys and men, is actually quite common. Although breast development can occur during puberty and disappear, some men continue to have noticeable breasts as they age. Gynecomastia can make a man feel uncomfortable and self-conscious, but Dr. Capek utilizes a combination of liposuction techniques, such as VASER LipoSelection and SmartLipo, and breast gland excision to correct gynecomastia with minimal scarring and dramatic enhancement of the chest contour.

Causes of Excess Breast Tissue

The development of enlarged male breasts can occur for several reasons, and understanding the source of your excess breast tissue helps determine the best male breast reduction procedure for you. The most common causes of gynecomastia include:

Hormonal Imbalance

One of the most frequent causes of enlarged breast tissue in men is a shift in the balance between testosterone and estrogen. This often appears during puberty and is known as pubertal gynecomastia or adolescent gynecomastia. While many cases resolve naturally, others persist into adulthood due to ongoing fluctuations, changes in luteinizing hormone, or increased estrogen receptors.

Medication or Drug Influence

Certain medications, supplements, and recreational substances can affect hormone levels and lead to drug-induced gynecomastia. These may include anabolic steroids, anti-androgen medications, THC or other drugs known to stimulate the growth of dense glandular tissue. In these cases, the changes often do not improve until the offending medication is discontinued.

Excess Fat Deposits

Some men develop the appearance of enlarged breasts due to excess fat, which can accumulate with weight gain or overall changes in body composition. Although weight loss can reduce fatty tissue, it cannot shrink actual glandular tissue, which is firmer and more fibrous. In these cases, gynecomastia surgery is often the most effective treatment.

Lifestyle and Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions, hormonal disorders, or changes in underlying structures can contribute to breast tissue in males. Medical issues that influence hormone production or metabolism can cause ongoing breast enlargement, while aging, obesity, and stress can further compound these effects. A thorough medical history examination helps determine the source.

Persistent or Severe Gynecomastia

Men with long-standing, severe, or progressive gynecomastia may experience a combination of excess tissue, excess skin, and severe pain or discomfort. Unilateral gynecomastia (one-sided) or bilateral gynecomastia (both sides) can occur, and some cases involve significantly excessive development of the chest area.

Am I a Good Candidate? 

Many people believe gynecomastia is caused by excess fat but, in most cases, men’s enlarged breasts are caused by excess glandular breast tissue in combination with fat. Ideal candidates for male breast reduction include:

  • Men who cannot correct their condition with treatments
  • Overall healthy individuals (including non-smokers)
  • Men of relatively normal weight
  • Men who have full breast development

Any adult man who is bothered by their condition should consider male breast reduction surgery. A consultation with Dr. Capek can help determine your candidacy for this procedure.

img img

board-certified plastic surgeon

DR. LUCIE CAPEK

Dr. Lucie Capek offers advanced cosmetic plastic surgery from the unique perspective of a female plastic surgeon. Since 1996, she has been serving patients in the Capital District from Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, and Troy, NY. She is known for using the latest technology to perform body contouring, breast surgery, and facial cosmetic surgery. She personalizes every treatment to give each patient the most natural-looking results, enhancing their beauty and increasing their self-confidence. Above all, her practice is dedicated to your health and wellness. Dr. Capek understands that your beauty and confidence is about more than just your appearance. To schedule your first consultation, contact Lucie Capek, MD.

LEARN MORE

Before Your Procedure

An initial consultation with Dr. Capek is necessary to discuss your aesthetic goals and determine a procedure process that will benefit you the most. Dr. Capek will also prepare you for the upcoming procedure with pre-operative instructions, the procedure process, and after instructions. Knowing what to expect and being prepared increases your likelihood of positive results.

Your Procedure

Dr. Capek typically performs gynecomastia surgery in her QuadA-accredited office-based operating suite, Capek Surgical Arts, or a hospital operating room under IV sedation anesthesia. In most cases, Dr. Capek uses a combination technique of VASER LipoSelection, or SmartLipo, and breast gland excision to provide effective results with minimal scarring and downtime. However, in some cases, either of these techniques may be performed alone.

Liposuction techniques are utilized where fatty tissue is the primary cause of gynecomastia. Excision techniques are utilized for the removal of excess glandular tissue, or excess skin to lift sagging breasts, and to create a more masculine contour. Skin excision is also necessary if the patient desires a smaller areola size or a repositioned nipple for natural-looking results. Sutures are placed under the skin and dissolve over time. The incisions are glued on the outside so there is minimal wound care required. Dr. Capek will provide an effective solution in reducing male breasts and restoring a more defined chest contour.

utilizing the latest technology

Procedures in 3d

After Your Procedure

After your procedure, you will to wake up in a compression vest to minimize swelling and support the new chest contour. Although many patients experience discomfort or soreness, this is generally mild to moderate and can be relieved with pain medication such as Tylenol and non-opioid prescription medications. Depending on your specific procedure process, recovery times and instructions will vary. Results are instantly visible and will continue to improve once the swelling subsides and the incisions heal. Dr. Capek will provide aftercare instructions to ensure optimal recovery.

QuadA Accredited

CAPEK SURGICAL ARTS

Dr. Capek is pleased to offer her patients an intimate, comfortable and discreet surgical experience at Capek Surgical Arts (CSA), her state-of-the-art Quad A accredited operating suite right here in Latham, NY. You can undergo your procedure under the expert care of board-certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Capek and her exceptional team of anesthesia and clinical staff without having to go to a hospital or surgery center.

LEARN MORE

Frequently Asked Questions about Gynecomastia

Can guys develop breasts?

Men can grow breasts for a variety of reasons. This condition is called gynecomastia and can be treated with surgery by a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Can you get rid of gynecomastia without surgery?

If your gynecomastia is caused by factors like medications, excess weight, or hormone imbalance, you may be able to treat your gynecomastia without surgery. Its always best to consult your regular physician and a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine your best options.

Is there any scarring after gynecomastia surgery?

Some scarring after gynecomastia surgery is unavoidable, although in most patients this is minimal. In some cases, when a patient has a great deal of excess tissue and loose skin, such as after major weight loss, skin removal is needed and will result in more conspicuous scars. Dr. Capek will use the smallest incisions needed to correct your gynecomastia to ensure that scars are as inconspicuous as possible. She will also provide tips and treatments to help fade the scars as much as possible.

When will I see the results of my gynecomastia surgery?

While some initial results will be visible immediately, these will become more obvious and refined as swelling and bruising recede. For most patients, significant results are noticeable within 3-6 months.

What should I avoid after gynecomastia surgery?

After gynecomastia surgery, you will want to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, alcohol and certain supplements, smoking, baths and swimming. Dr. Capek will give you a full list of what to avoid and what to do to ensure optimal healing and the best results.

How can I reduce swelling after my gynecomastia procedure?

To limit swelling after gynecomastia surgery you’ll wear a compression garment, sleep slightly elevated in the first week or two, you may apply ice packs over your compression garment in the first few days and limit strenuous activity for at least 2-3 weeks after surgery.

How long is the recovery process after gynecomastia surgery?

The recovery process for gynecomastia surgery can take about 4-6 weeks. At that point, you can go back to most of your normal activities, but full recovery and healing can take six months or longer. Dr. Capek will walk you through the recovery process to ensure you know what to expect.

What Are the Risks of Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction or reduction mammaplasty, carries certain risks, although complications are uncommon when performed by experienced plastic surgeons. Potential risks include bruising, swelling, and temporary discomfort during the first few weeks. More serious but rare complications may include excessive bleeding, infection, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. rnMen with dark skin may also be more prone to pigment changes around the small incisions used to perform liposuction or for direct excision of glandular tissue. Choosing an experienced cosmetic surgeon is the best way to ensure safe surgical outcomes, proper surgical correction, and long-lasting improvements in your self-confidence and self-esteem following your male breast reduction surgery.

Why Choose Capek Plastic Surgery & MedSpa for Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia treatment at Capek Plastic Surgery & MedSpa is performed with precision and discretion to create a flatter, more masculine chest contour. Dr. Capek customizes the surgical approach for each patient, often combining liposuction with glandular tissue removal to achieve natural results. She emphasizes symmetry and proportion while minimizing visible scarring.


Patients value the boost in comfort that comes with a more proportionate chest. Many feel more confident in clothing, at the beach, or during workouts, and appreciate the psychological benefits of looking and feeling aligned with their body image goals.

Schedule a Consultation

Restore your confidence today by receiving a newly constructed, manly chest contour. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Our office is just 13 miles from Albany and 9 miles from Schenectady, New York.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

For more information, schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Capek today!

img

Dr. Lucie Capek

board-certified plastic surgeon

Dr. Lucie Capek is a dual board-certified plastic surgeon, certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. With more than three decades of experience, she has perfected the art of blending surgical precision with artistic vision to create beautiful, natural results for her patients.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Capek has helped thousands of individuals achieve their aesthetic goals with skill, compassion, and integrity. She is an active member of several esteemed professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, the American College of Surgeons, the New York State Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY).

Dr. Capek’s commitment to excellence and personalized care has earned her a reputation as one of the region’s most trusted and respected plastic surgeons.

  • img
  • img
  • img
  • img
  • img