Gynecomastia—commonly referred to as male breast enlargement—is a condition that affects men of all ages. Whether caused by hormonal changes, genetics, medications, weight fluctuations, or unknown factors, gynecomastia can significantly impact confidence, self-image, and quality of life. For many men, male breast reduction surgery offers a permanent and life-changing solution.
One of the most common concerns patients have when considering gynecomastia surgery is scarring. Specifically, patients often ask: “How big will the incision be?” and “Will the scar be noticeable?”
Dr. Kailash Narasimhan, a board-certified plastic surgeon serving St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Clearwater, specializes in advanced gynecomastia surgery techniques designed to achieve excellent contouring while minimizing visible scars. In most cases, a small, well-placed incision is not only sufficient—but optimal.
This article explains why incision size matters, the different incision options available, and why a smaller incision is often the best choice for gynecomastia surgery.
Gynecomastia surgery—also known as male breast reduction—is a procedure designed to flatten and masculinize the chest by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and, in some cases, excess skin.
Depending on the individual patient, the surgery may involve:
The goal is to create a natural-looking, firm, masculine chest with smooth contours and minimal scarring.
The incision is the gateway through which the surgeon reshapes the chest. Choosing the right incision size and location is critical for:
Contrary to popular belief, larger incisions do not necessarily produce better results. In fact, in most modern gynecomastia surgeries, a smaller incision allows for excellent access while reducing unnecessary tissue trauma.
The periareolar incision is made along the lower border of the areola, where the darker pigmented skin meets the surrounding chest skin.
For the majority of gynecomastia cases—especially mild to moderate grades—this incision provides everything needed to remove dense tissue and contour the chest effectively.
Dr. Narasimhan frequently uses a small periareolar incision, often only a few centimeters in length, to achieve optimal results with minimal scarring.
This incision is placed in the crease beneath the chest.
This approach is typically reserved for severe cases with excess skin, not routine gynecomastia correction.
This incision is hidden in the armpit and avoids chest scars entirely.
For this reason, Dr. Narasimhan rarely recommends this technique when glandular tissue is present, as complete removal is essential for long-term success.
In cases of severe gynecomastia (Grade III or IV) with significant skin excess, larger or additional incisions may be required.
While these incisions can result in more visible scars, they may be necessary to:
That said, these cases are the exception—not the rule.
One of the top concerns for men undergoing gynecomastia surgery is scar visibility. A small incision—particularly along the areolar border—heals exceptionally well in most patients.
Benefits include:
In many patients, the scar becomes nearly imperceptible over time.
Smaller incisions mean:
This is especially important in male chest surgery, where maintaining normal sensation is a priority.
Smaller incisions are associated with:
By minimizing tissue trauma, Dr. Narasimhan helps patients recover more comfortably and efficiently.
A common myth is that small incisions limit surgical precision. In reality, with modern techniques, a skilled surgeon can:
Dr. Narasimhan’s approach emphasizes precision over incision size, ensuring the chest looks natural—not over-operated.
Because smaller incisions cause less tissue disruption, patients typically experience:
Most patients return to light activity within days and resume exercise within several weeks.
Although a small incision is ideal for most patients, there are situations where a larger or additional incision may be appropriate:
Dr. Narasimhan carefully evaluates each patient and recommends the least invasive approach capable of achieving the best long-term result.
Mild to moderate cases typically require only a small periareolar incision.
Dense glandular tissue usually requires direct excision, best accessed through a periareolar incision.
Patients with good skin elasticity can often avoid skin excision entirely.
Some patients prioritize the smallest possible scar; others prioritize maximal flattening. Both goals are considered during planning.
The ability to achieve excellent results through small incisions depends heavily on surgical expertise.
During your consultation in St. Petersburg, Tampa, or Clearwater, Dr. Narasimhan will:
Patients appreciate Dr. Narasimhan’s transparent, educational approach, ensuring realistic expectations and confident decision-making.
After surgery, patients receive detailed instructions to promote optimal healing, including:
With proper care, most small incisions heal exceptionally well and continue to improve over 6–12 months.
Dr. Kailash Narasimhan is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in male breast reduction surgery. Patients throughout St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Clearwater choose him for his:
His philosophy centers on doing what is necessary—and nothing more—to achieve the best result.
Incision size plays a crucial role in the success of gynecomastia surgery. While larger incisions may be required in select cases, a small, strategically placed incision is often the best choice, offering:
Dr. Kailash Narasimhan’s refined approach to gynecomastia surgery allows most patients to achieve a flatter, more confident chest with scars that fade discreetly over time.
If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Narasimhan is the first step toward understanding your options and achieving lasting results.
👉 Contact Dr. Kailash Narasimhan’s office today to schedule your personalized gynecomastia consultation in St. Petersburg, Tampa, or Clearwater, Florida.
