Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is a condition in which men have overdeveloped or enlarged breasts due to an excess of breast tissue. Though the condition is rarely discussed, it is actually quite common, affecting an estimated 40-60% of men. Though certain medications and health problems are linked with male breast overdevelopment, there is no known cause in the vast majority of cases. Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and reduced self-confidence. For men who feel self-conscious about their appearance, the condition can be treated with a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and glandular tissue, creating a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest appearance.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

The most common causes of breast enlargement in men include:

Lower levels of testosterone

An increase in the hormone estrogen

Such hormonal fluctuations can be normal during different phases of life and can affect infants, children who have just entered puberty, or older men.

Infants might also develop breast enlargement while drinking their mother’s breast milk. Estrogen is present in breast milk. Hence, nursing can lead to a slight increase in estrogen levels in babies.

Besides male sex hormones, boys also produce the female hormone estrogen. When boys enter puberty, they begin to produce more estrogen than they produce androgen. This can lead to gynecomastia. However, in such cases, the condition is typically temporary and goes away as soon as there is a balance between the previously mentioned hormones.

Male sex hormone production in adults begins to decline over several years during andropause. This typically occurs around middle age and can result in hair loss, insomnia, or gynecomastia.

Other factors that may result in gynecomastia include:

Taking certain drugs, such as steroids and amphetamines

Testicular tumor

Hyperthyroidism

Liver failure

Chronic renal failure

Benefits of Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Many patients have reported feeling and looking younger and more revitalized after male breast reduction surgery. Additionally, you may find that your clothes fit better, that you don’t receive unwanted harassment, and that you feel comfortable wearing a bathing suit or tank top.

Have you had a history of extreme weight fluctuations, anabolic steroid use, or a glandular or hormonal medical imbalance? If so, you may be a good candidate for gynecomastia. Oftentimes, these problems arise as teenagers, or young adults, and are not addressed until later in adulthood. The best candidates have some or all of the following characteristics:

The results of gynecomastia are incredible. After surgery, you will see a slimmer, more robust chest. You may experience boosted self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth.

Enlarged, sagging breasts

Asymmetrical chest or breast size

Feel self-conscious, depressed, or embarrassed of their male breasts

Suffer from hormonal imbalances or similar medical conditions

Constant unwanted attention and judgment

Have trouble finding clothes that fit well and look nice

Gynecomastia Procedure

Male breast reduction surgery is usually performed under sedation or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Several techniques can be utilized in male breast reduction, depending on the extent of the procedure. The surgery typically takes one to two hours.

If the enlarged breasts are primarily caused by excessive fatty tissue, liposuction can be performed through tiny incisions to remove the excess fat. The incision is usually made around the edge of the areola or within the underarm. If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause of the enlarged breast, the tissue will need surgical excision in addition to liposuction.In these cases, the excess skin may have to be removed as well. The incisions are then closed using sutures and are covered with surgical dressings. The chest is usually wrapped to minimize swelling and assist with recovery.

Preparing for Your Gynecomastia Surgery

To prepare for gynecomastia removal, you’ll need to follow any instructions provided by your doctor, which may include:

Stopping certain medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners, can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. You may be instructed to stop taking these medications for a period of time before the surgery.

Avoiding certain foods and drinks: It may be necessary to avoid certain foods and drinks that can increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with the anesthesia, such as alcohol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications after surgery, so it’s important to break the habit before the procedure.

Arranging for transportation home: You’ll need to arrange for transportation home after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive yourself.

Making arrangements for someone to stay with you: It’s a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after the surgery to help you with any tasks you may have difficulty with, such as bathing or dressing.

Getting your home ready: You should prepare your home for your recovery before the surgery. This may include stocking up on any necessary supplies, such as medication or bandages, and setting up any equipment you may need, such as a recliner or a raised toilet seat.

How Is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?

Male breast reduction is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, allowing you to go home the same day as the procedure. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation may be used in some cases.

There are several different techniques that can be used for the correction of overdeveloped or enlarged breasts, including:

Liposuction: Liposuction is a common technique used to remove excess fat from the chest area. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the chest, and a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through the incision. The cannula is used to suction out excess fat from the chest area.

Excision: Excision is a technique that involves the removal of excess breast tissue and skin through an incision. It is typically used for men who have more severe gynecomastia or who have loose, sagging skin in the chest area.

Combination of liposuction and excision: In some cases, a combination of liposuction and excision may be used to achieve the desired results.

A technique that best suits your individual needs will be used to reduce the size of the areola, minimize puffiness, and realign the nipple to replicate the natural male shape.

What Are The Side Effects of Gynecomastia Surgery?

All surgeries involve some risk. The possible complications of male breast reduction include:

Infection and bleeding

Allergic reactions to anesthesia

Changes in breast and nipple sensation

Blood clots

Heart attack

Temporary or permanent areas of numbness

Inflamed and itchy scars

An asymmetry of the breasts

Indentations of the nipple and areolar regions

Skin death along the wound

Death of the nipple tissue

Death of deeper tissues

Can Breast Tissue Grow Back After Gynecomastia Surgery?

In many cases, the results are permanent. However, if you gain weight, use certain medicines, or develop a hormonal imbalance, your breasts may start getting bigger again.

Is Gynecomastia Surgery Painful?

The correction of gynecomastia may result in some degree of discomfort. There may be normal discomfort and minor soreness for the first two days, which may be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers or a short prescription of narcotic pain pills. However, the vast majority of individuals who have undergone this surgery do not experience pain, even in the days after the procedure.

How Long Does Gynecomastia Surgery Take?

The surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours to perform, depending on how much tissue is removed. Yes, it is possible to get rid of gynecomastia without surgery through lifestyle changes, exercise, and medication, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.