Men Are Getting “Man Boobs” Fixed With Breast Reduction Surgery

A growing number of men in the U.S. are turning to plastic surgery to treat gynecomastia, a male breast reduction procedure that has become the most common plastic surgery among men in 2024.

What’s Happening — A Surge in Male Breast Reductions

According to the latest data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 26,430 male breast-reduction operations were performed in 2024, a rise from 20,955 in 2019.

The trend appears to be gaining momentum, with clinics seeing an uptick in consultations and procedures for gynecomastia since 2020 — a change that surgeons partly credit to growing awareness and acceptability.

Why Men Are Choosing Surgery — Beyond Just Looks

Those seeking surgery often describe long-term discomfort — not just physical, but emotional and social. For example, some men told the Post they hid their chest, avoided changing clothes in public, layered shirts regardless of heat, or dealt with significant self-esteem issues.

Gynecomastia can arise from hormonal imbalances, genetics, weight fluctuations, use of certain medications — but crucially, reducing fat or losing weight doesn’t always resolve the issue. In cases where excess glandular tissue is involved, only surgery can correct the appearance.

For many men, surgery feels like reclaiming confidence and comfort with their own body. Some describe it as a chance to work out, dress comfortably, and just live without the shame or anxiety they felt for years.

What’s Changing — Cosmetic Surgery for Men is Becoming Normal

The rise in male-oriented plastic surgery coincides with shrinking stigma around cosmetic procedures for men. More men now see aesthetic surgery as a legitimate way to address bodily concerns — not just vanity. Cosmetic procedures among men rose in 2024 overall, with gynecomastia now leading the list of surgical interventions.

Experts suggest several drivers behind this shift: greater body awareness, social-media influence, willingness to speak openly about insecurities, and a broader redefinition of masculinity that — increasingly — accepts self-care and personal appearance as valid concerns.

What You Should Know — Pros, Cons & Realities

Male breast reduction is considered relatively safe, and many patients report high satisfaction and improved quality of life after recovery. However:

• It’s not cheap — the cost can run several thousand dollars, not always covered by insurance.
• Recovery requires time and care; results depend on realistic expectations and proper healing.
• Underlying issues (hormonal, metabolic, medication-related) might need attention too — surgery doesn’t replace overall health maintenance.

You might also want to read: Woman’s Breasts Grow to a Size N After Rare Condition Is Finally Diagnosed