WHAT IT DOES: Removes excess fat or breast tissue found in men.

BEST CANDIDATES: Men with excess fat or breast tissue in their breasts.

LENGTH: 1 to 2 hours

RECOVERY: Bruising and swelling for 2 to 6 weeks. Requires wearing a special garment.

BACK TO WORK: 3 to 5 weeks

COST: $2,450 - $4,750 (plus $500 fee for Anesthesia)

WHAT TO EXPECT: Before surgery you will have a complete medical checkup to rule out any curable medical cause of your enlarged breasts. Obesity, impaired liver function, excessive use of alcohol or marijuana, estrogen containing medications and anabolic steroids can all contribute to gynecomastia. If any of these conditions are detected, they must be corrected before surgery can be performed. Overweight men are encouraged to diet and exercise prior to their surgery.

Your surgeon will make an incision under your breasts or around the areola (the dark skin around the nipple). Liposuction is usually the treatment of choice to remove these excess localized fat deposits. Persistent excess glandular tissue, fat and skin can be surgically removed from around the areola and from the bottom and sides of the breasts to create a new smaller breast contour if liposuction is not indicated.

Swelling and bruising are normal and will subside over the next few weeks. You will need to wear an elastic bandage or pressure garment as your breasts heal. Scarring is usually minimal and will fade with time. You should avoid direct sun exposure for six months.