You may catch yourself looking in the mirror, staring at your puffy male breasts, and wondering if what you see if considered ‘normal’. While it is important to remember there is nothing ‘normal’ about the appearance – bodies come in different shapes and sizes – there can be features that impair self-esteem and confidence. While these may only require aesthetic changes, having a cosmetic procedure to improve these physical issues can be life changing. Hence the importance of gynecomastia treatment.
Gynecomastia, the condition of enlarged male breasts, is extremely common. There are a variety of factors that may trigger excessive breast growth, including hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, certain prescription medications, illness, and drug use. This being said, some cases of gynecomastia are considered idiopathic, or without a diagnosable cause. A vital part of the treatment process will be determining the root cause of gynecomastia to achieve optimal health and ensure the protruding breast tissue does not return in the years to come. A board certified plastic surgeon will help to determine the cause of enlarged male breast tissue, make sure that it is properly addressed, and then create the best treatment plan for achieving desired results.
The Ideal Candidate for Gynecomastia Correction
Once your surgeon has established the cause of excessive breast growth, the ideal treatment can be determined. This may include a male breast reduction, using either liposuction (to eliminate unwanted fatty tissue) or excision (to remove excess glandular tissue), or a combination of both techniques.
You are a good candidate for gynecomastia treatment if:
- You are unhappy with the size or shape of your breasts.
- You are struggling with puffy, distended, distorted nipple/areolas.
- You have good skin elasticity, otherwise excision may be necessary to remove stretched, lax skin, as well.
- You are close to your ideal body weight – as gynecomastia surgery does not subside as a weight loss technique.
- You are in overall good health.
- You have reasonable expectations for the final results.
When Gynecomastia Correction is Not for You:
While a male breast reduction can bring about tremendous results for most men, it is not for everyone. Those patients in the midst of hormonal changes may see their enlarged male breasts return to normal in the future, so in this case, gynecomastia treatment may be best postponed for at least a year. Certain illness can result in excessive breast tissue, as well as many medications. If these underlying causes cannot be addressed or eliminated, the enlarged breast tissue can return after surgery. Additionally, men planning on losing a large amount of weight in the future should hold off on their male breast reduction until they are closer to their ideal body shape. Losing extensive weight can compromise the benefits of gynecomastia surgery. Finally, some scarring can be expected after a male breast reduction. Men must understand the results they can expect and be prepared for the subsequent changes.
Work with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon:
Do not suffer with enlarged male breasts alone. Schedule an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to find out if a male breast reduction is for you. Together, you and your surgeon can determine the best method for achieving a flat, smooth, masculine chest.
Houston’s Paul Vitenas, MD is the most sought-after gynecomastia surgeon in the area. Call Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery at (281) 668-7370 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vitenas, or to find out how to complete a confidential, online consultation.