“Gynecomastia” and Breast Reduction Surgery for Men

Plastic surgery addressing the size and shape of women’s breasts through enlargement, lift  or reduction has become almost commonplace, but did you know that men undergo plastic surgery treatment for their breasts, as well? This rarely discussed treatment is designed to treat men with adult gynecomastia, a hormonal imbalance that causes breast enlargement in men. Far more common than most people realize, the incidence of this sometimes embarrassing condition -referred to as “man boobs” in the vernacular— is as high as 50% of men starting in adolescence and peaks between the ages of 50 to 80.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

Adolescent gynecomastia is considered a natural occurrence due to rapid hormonal changes that take place as a result of puberty, and in most cases the condition resolves itself and swollen breast tissue decreases without treatment. However, in about five percent of cases, the excessive breast tissue remains and can become firm and fibrous. In such cases plastic surgery becomes a viable option.

Approximately 25 percent of the reasons behind hormonal imbalances causing gynecomastia in adult males are unknown. Known causes include:

• unresolved adolescent gynecomastia
• various medications
• street drugs
• malnutrition
• liver disease
• kidney disease
• low testosterone
• primary hypogonadism
• secondary hypogonadism
• hypothyroidism
• tumors of the testes

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery is an outpatient enhancement procedure that removes and shapes a man’s breast tissue to help him develop a more toned chest. As a result of the procedure men usually achieve a slimmer physique, which further results in a better self-body image and boosts self-confidence. There are different gynecomastia surgery procedures, and your qualified plastic surgeon will be able to advise you on the appropriate procedure for your situation after a thorough examination. Surgical options are highly dependent upon the amount of skin present, the quality of the skin, fat and breast tissue levels, and shape and size of the enlarged breasts.

Often liposuction of the male breast  has proven to be a highly effective procedure. However, if there is a thick bud of breast tissue, removal combined with liposuction may be necessary. The scar can be hidden below the nipple. If there is a lot of excess skin, removal of some skin may be necessary, though this is rare.

What About Medications for Gynecomastia?

There are no prescribed pharmacological options specifically available for the treatment of gynecomastia, though some doctors have prescribed some medications, such Tamoxifen and Raloxifene, off label. These drugs may help resolve the underlying causes of gynecomastia, but cannot reduce the build up of fat and breast tissue that has already accrued. Several herbal supplements and other pills ostensibly targeting gynecomastia are being actively marketed for the condition. The most popular, Gynexin, is described as a fat burner that specifically targets adipose fat in the breasts. Even if it does work to reduce that kind of fat, it does not address the underlying glandular breast tissue.

Gynecomastia Surgery Available in Naples, Florida

Gardner Plastic Surgery in Naples, Florida, has long offered Gynecomastia Treatment as part of its practice. As a highly qualified male breast reduction surgeon, Dr. Paul Gardner  understands the emotional difficulties faced by patients with gynecomastia. He and his entire staff put their patients at ease from the initial consultation up to the surgery, and assure them the best results in the re-sculpting of their chests. To learn how Dr. Gardner can help you or a family member address the possible chest disfigurement of gynecomastia, contact Gardner Plastic Surgery today at 239.566.2611 to schedule your initial consultation.