ABOUT GYNECOMASTIA
The scientific term, gynecomastia, is used for enlarged male breasts. This condition is one that can produce a feminine chest due to the increase of growing breast tissue. Many times, gynecomastia is related to an unknown hormonal problem. It may also be caused by certain medications, steroids, weight gain, or it can be hereditary. Men with this condition often feel frustrated and anxious, most commonly in situations where the chest is exposed, such as at the beach, pool, or at the gym. Ashburn, VA board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael J. Brown performs surgical breast reduction for men who suffer from gynecomastia. This surgery does have a high success rate. It is known as one of the more common cosmetic treatments for men at The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery.
“I was nervous/embarrassed when I first came in, but the entire staff put me at ease and made me feel comfortable with the whole process. I was very impressed and I am so so happy with my results.”
- Anonymous /
Apr 25, 2022 /
Surgical Experience
IDEAL CANDIDATES
Male breast reduction treatment is reserved for men with oversized breasts that cannot be treated through medications or diet. If you are troubled by the size and shape of your chest (but you are healthy and at a good weight), you could possibly benefit from male breast reduction surgery by Dr. Brown at The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery. Adolescent teens may also attain positive results from gynecomastia treatment; however, an additional procedure may be needed later as an adult if excess breast tissue continues to develop. In your initial consultation with Dr. Brown, treatment considerations will be provided, including the chances of moving forward with surgery to correct the condition.
SURGICAL TECHNIQUE
A form of liposuction is almost always utilized during male breast reduction surgery. While you are under general anesthesia, liposuction helps eliminate excess fat tissue from the internal chest region. Afterward, any lax skin will be carefully trimmed away to produce a taut look, and then the nipple area and surrounding areola will be surgically reshaped and placed into a proportionate position. For most men, this treatment strategy requires an incision in proximity to where the glandular tissue has formed. After the pockets of fat and excess skin have been appropriately handled, Dr. Brown will pull together the remaining skin.
WHAT TO EXPECT
At the conclusion of your gynecomastia surgery, the chest will be supported with a compression bandage to help decrease swelling, bleeding, and bruising. For complex cases where a more intricate approach was used, a small tube for draining may be properly positioned to help with fluid. The outcomes following this procedure are almost immediately visible, and most men are extremely excited with the cosmetic enhancement. Any incisions made during surgery take time to heal, and any scars left behind are barely seen. With your new, masculine-appearing chest, you may get medical clearance from Dr. Brown to incorporate exercise and weight training, which will help accentuate the surgical results.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does male breast reduction cost?
Excessive male breast tissue (gynecomastia) is a medical problem that is best handled by an experienced surgeon. For this reason, Dr. Brown suggests you focus on how to get your best results rather than costs. To make male breast reduction surgery fit your budget, The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery takes several payment methods. We can also help you locate low-interest financing. While surgery for gynecomastia is generally not covered by insurance, it is worth contacting your insurer to check.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is an imbalance in the hormones. In most cases, gynecomastia is connected to the use of androgens and anabolic steroids. It may also be the result of using illegal drugs, including marijuana or heroin. Gynecomastia might also be triggered by some medical conditions (hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and tumors), plus some medications (highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, chemotherapy, and anti-anxiety medications).
How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia) so Dr. Brown suggests patients lose weight by following an exercise plan and a healthy diet before considering surgery. If you have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Brown will perform a physical exam and order diagnostic tests. This might include a mammogram, blood tests, or a biopsy to look for other causes, like an infection of the breast tissue (mastitis) or cancer.
Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
Male breast reduction surgery is the most effective treatment for gynecomastia. Currently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not approved any medications for the treatment of gynecomastia. Although they are not approved for gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (Raloxifene or Tamoxifen) might give you minimal improvements. Upper body weight training to increase the pectoral muscles will not reduce the excess breast tissue and could even make the breasts look bigger.
Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Puffy or pointy nipples may be caused by glandular gynecomastia. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Brown at your consultation. He will personalize your surgical plan to select the best incision pattern and technique to improve your nipples. Oversized areolas may also be corrected in surgery for gynecomastia. It is crucial that you be honest with Dr. Brown about all your concerns and wants during your initial consultation so he can make sure you get the results you want.
RESTORE YOUR MASCULINE CHEST
If you are frustrated with the side effects of male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), we invite you to contact our office and schedule a one-on-one private consultation with Dr. Brown to learn about our male breast reduction procedure at The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery. Once you have had treatment for gynecomastia (male breast enlargement), you will not have to keep hiding your chest when you go to the gym or beach. We have assisted so many Ashburn, VA men and have enjoyed helping them reestablish their self-esteem.
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