Dr. Shell and his staff are respectful. The staff is awesome and kind. I love the welcome when you come in, and when you leave, they are very helpful. I love the staff and am joyous and happy when I come there. They know what they are doing and are not mean people at all. I recommend my family to go there.
Gynecomastia Reduction

Gynecomastia reduction is a highly effective surgical solution for men who struggle with the physical and emotional effects of enlarged breast tissue. At Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center in Memphis, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dan H. Shell III offers advanced, personalized care to help patients achieve a flatter, more sculpted chest. With over 50 years of surgical experience and a reputation for natural-looking results, Dr. Shell approaches every case with discretion, expertise, and genuine compassion.
What Is Gynecomastia Reduction?
Gynecomastia is the medical term for the benign enlargement of male breast tissue, often caused by hormonal imbalances, weight fluctuations, medications, or genetics. This condition can affect men at any age and is often resistant to lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Gynecomastia reduction surgery removes excess glandular tissue, fat, or both, helping men achieve a firmer, more traditionally masculine chest appearance.
Dr. Shell provides a customized surgical approach based on each patient’s anatomy and goals. Whether the enlargement is due to soft fatty tissue or dense glandular tissue, the appropriate technique—or a combination of techniques—is used to deliver lasting results with minimal downtime.
Benefits of Male Breast Reduction
Male breast reduction surgery significantly improves physical appearance and emotional well-being. Patients often report increased comfort in clothing, greater ease during physical activities, and a renewed sense of self-confidence. This procedure addresses both the aesthetic and psychological aspects of gynecomastia, helping men feel more comfortable in their bodies and more confident in personal and social settings.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
Ideal candidates for gynecomastia reduction are healthy adult men who experience persistent breast enlargement despite a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. They should be non-smokers or willing to quit prior to surgery and have realistic expectations about the outcome. During a private consultation, Dr. Shell thoroughly evaluates the cause and extent of tissue development to determine whether liposuction, glandular excision, or a combined approach will best meet the patient’s goals.
The Gynecomastia Procedure and Recovery Process
The surgical process begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Shell conducts a physical examination and reviews medical history, including any medications that might contribute to the condition. He discusses your desired outcomes and provides a clear, personalized plan for surgical correction.
Depending on the underlying cause of the gynecomastia, the surgery may involve liposuction to remove fatty tissue, direct excision to remove glandular tissue, or a combination of both. Liposuction is performed through small, discreet incisions using a fine cannula to contour the chest. When glandular tissue is present, it is carefully excised to achieve a smooth, firm result. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and most patients return home the same day.
Recovery is typically straightforward. Some swelling, bruising, and tenderness may occur during the first few days. Patients are advised to wear a compression garment to support healing and maintain the new contour. Most return to light activities within 3 to 5 days and resume full activity, including exercise, within three to four weeks. Dr. Shell’s team provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules regular follow-ups to monitor healing and progress.
The results of gynecomastia surgery are generally permanent, especially when supported by a healthy lifestyle and weight maintenance. The removal of glandular tissue makes recurrence unlikely, although significant hormonal shifts or certain medications could affect the outcome. Scars are minimal and discreetly placed to preserve a natural appearance.
What to Expect from Your Results
Patients can expect a firmer, flatter chest with improved definition and proportion. The physical transformation often brings a powerful emotional benefit, allowing men to wear fitted clothing, go shirtless with confidence, and participate more fully in life. At Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center, the goal is not just surgical improvement but long-term satisfaction and self-assurance.
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Why Choose Dr. Dan Shell III?
Choose Dr. Shell for trusted, personalized cosmetic surgery. His highly regarded clinic specializes in body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and breast enhancement. Discover expert cosmetic solutions that put your beauty and wellness first. Schedule your consultation today!
Professional Credentials:
- MD from University of Mississippi School of Medicine
- Board Certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Member, Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
- Over 50 years of surgical experience
- Outstanding Resident Award recipient (1981)
Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself!
From the initial consultation to almost a year later, they all have been a dream! Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself! If no one has said this to you all lately, thank you for everything! My life has forever changed!
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well. Thank you again Dr. Shell and staff!
The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring
I received a drainless tummy tuck. I am happy with my results so far. I am only 2 months postoperation. I am so happy I chose to stay close to my home rather than travel somewhere farther. I am able to get all the postoperation care that I need. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring. I love my belly button, lol.
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job. Whatever he tells you, believe it and follow it, and he’s going to make it happen. I am 6 days post abdominalplasty, and I am in love with my results! Dr. Dan is this BEST!!
Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms
After being turned down by multiple surgeons here in Memphis for a simple removal, Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms. The environment is clean & professional. I felt comfortable and feel like I made a great decision reaching out to him & his staff. I’m soooo happy & relieved right now. Thanks a lot, Dr. Shell & nurse!
Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours
I had piercings that were embedded in my face and had to be cut out. Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours. I am very grateful for him and the entire staff at the surgery center. Thank you so much, Dr. Shell.
DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
I love Dr. Shell I had surgery and I was so terrified but in true Dr. Shell fashion he came in made me laugh and the next thing I knew he was done. I’m loving what I see so far still swollen but excited to see the end result. Brandi is great she is always willing to answer questions and to put your mind at ease. No need to go to other states or over seas when we have and outstanding plastic surgeon right in Memphis, TN. DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery. I was super nervous the day of surgery, but everything he said and did made the experience one of the easiest things I had done. He is very knowledgeable and experienced, and has a reason for the ways he does things. It was a bit of a leap of faith to trust him but 10/10 I would do it again. He and his staff have been so helpful and given me all kinds of advice and support. I read complaints of people have to wait to see him – I never once have had this issue.
My healing process has been so, so easy, and the scarring is minimal – not even a factor. I am beyond happy with the work Dan Shell did and would recommend him to anyone.
If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell
Dr. Shell, and his staff are absolutely amazing. Brandi is hands down the best ever! His nurse is amazing too! Every staff member exceeded my expectations. They sealed the deal in my decision to chose Dr. Shell as my doctor. If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell.
Love Love Love Dr. Shell & Staff!
Complimentary Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
Gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue due to hormonal imbalance, genetics, medications, or other factors. Treatment typically involves liposuction, glandular tissue removal, or both, depending on the specific composition of the tissue. Dr. Shell creates a personalized plan for every patient to achieve the most effective and natural-looking result.
Healthy men who are at or near their ideal weight and have stable hormone levels are strong candidates. If lifestyle changes haven’t resolved your symptoms and the condition causes emotional or physical discomfort, surgical treatment may be appropriate.
Recovery is generally well tolerated. Most men return to light activities within several days and resume exercise within a few weeks. Mild swelling and soreness are normal and typically resolve within the first month. Dr. Shell provides guidance throughout the healing process to verify comfort.
Yes, the results are long-lasting. Once glandular tissue is removed, it typically does not return. However, maintaining your weight and avoiding medications known to cause gynecomastia are important for preserving your results.
The cost of gynecomastia reduction varies based on the extent of surgery. At Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center, we offer transparent pricing and flexible financing options—making sure that treatment is accessible. A private consultation will include a detailed cost estimate tailored to your specific needs.
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