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How Do I Know If I Need Gynecomastia Surgery?
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Enlarged breast tissue in a male—known as gynecomastia—may cause physical discomfort and significantly affect the appearance of the chest. However, most often, it is the psychological impact, specifically self-esteem, that motivates men to consider plastic surgery to treat their gynecomastia.
This condition—which can occur at almost any age—has various causes. These include hormonal changes, specific medications, anabolic steroid use, heavy marijuana usage, alcoholism, hereditary conditions in younger and older men, and medical conditions like hyperthyroidism. Considerable weight gain can also contribute to the development of excess fat in the chest area, which does not always respond to diet and exercise.
Regardless of the cause, gynecomastia surgery offers a great solution for men who are unhappy with their enlarged breasts.
What Are the Symptoms of Gynecomastia?
- Swollen and enlarged breast tissue
- Pockets of exercise-resistant fat
- Stretched areolas
- Sagging breasts
- Tender chest area
- A fibrous and moveable disc-like mound of tissue below the nipple
- Asymmetrical breasts
How to Determine If You Are a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
If you believe you have gynecomastia, it is best to talk with a knowledgeable plastic surgeon like Dr. Steven Turkeltaub.
During your consultation, Dr. Turkeltaub will perform a physical exam of your breasts to determine if you have gynecomastia and, if so, what the cause may be. It may be that the enlargement is the result of glandular (breast) tissue, fat, or a combination of both.
Not everyone is a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery. Whether you are or not will be determined at the time of your consultation.
There are some situations where this condition may improve on its own, such as at the end of puberty, but it rarely does so otherwise. Some overweight individuals who lose a considerable amount of weight may see a resolution, but, generally, that is the exception.
Which Type of Gynecomastia Surgery Is Right for Me?
The specific plastic surgery procedure for the gynecomastia treatment will depend on the anatomic cause for the breast enlargement and the degree of severity.
If the enlarged breasts are just due to excessive fat, then liposuction may be the appropriate treatment choice. If it is solely due to excessive glandular tissue, then direct excision would be warranted. When the enlargement results from both factors, then a combination of the two procedures may be needed.
For severe gynecomastia, where there is significant skin excess that usually is associated with drooping, skin resection would be indicated in addition to the removal of the underlying cause of the enlargement.
Learn more about caring for your gynecomastia surgery incisions and reducing the appearance of your gynecomastia scars.
Interested in Learning More?
Are you considering gynecomastia surgery?
If so, you can contact us today at 480-451-3000 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Turkeltaub. He will answer your questions and guide you on the best path towards obtaining a more attractive, contoured male chest.