Gynecomastia is a common condition in men and adolescent boys. While it has many causes, it results in noticeably enlarged male breasts. Gynecomastia surgery reduces the volume of your enlarged breasts. This procedure can provide a more sculpted, masculine chest that improves confidence.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can affect men of any age. Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes that can occur in puberty and as you age
- Medications and illicit substances
- Medical conditions
- Other factors that cause hormonal imbalances
The most common trigger for gynecomastia is an imbalance between estrogen, which promotes breast development, and the male hormone testosterone. Gynecomastia does not usually pose a health risk but can make you very self-conscious.
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery is a procedure to reduce the size of your enlarged male breasts. Also known as male breast reduction, it removes excess breast tissue and fat to decrease breast mass and provide a more masculine shape. In most cases, Dr. Greenberg uses a combination of liposuction for fat and excision for breast tissue. He may also reposition or resize the areolas.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Permanent?
The fat and breast tissue removed by gynecomastia will not grow back. However, your breasts may get larger again if you gain weight. They may also get larger if you still have an underlying condition that causes your gynecomastia.
The removal of most breast tissue usually prevents the condition from recurring, but a healthy lifestyle will maintain your masculine chest shape. During your consultation, Dr. Greenberg will discuss what you can expect after your procedure. If you maintain a consistent weight, you can expect results that last a lifetime.
What is Recovery Like After Gynecomastia Surgery?
Most people have some bruising and swelling after surgery. A compression garment will control swelling and support the area. You may be able to return to work in about a week if you have a low-activity job. You may need more time to recover if your job requires strenuous activity, especially heavy lifting.
Depending on the details of your treatment plan, you may have visible scars after surgery. With good care, these will fade from red to pink before starting to blend with your natural skin tone. Dr. Greenberg will explain what type of scars you can expect and how to help them fade quickly.
Am I a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Most individuals with male breast enlargement make good candidates for gynecomastia surgery. To ensure your results will last, your doctors should identify and address any underlying causes of your gynecomastia. They may need to change medication or treat a medical condition to prevent your breasts from growing again.
Take the Next Step
If you’d like to learn more about gynecomastia surgery, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Scott A. Greenberg and his team at Winter Park Plastic Surgery & Laser Center in Winter Park, FL (serving the Central Florida area). (407) 644-3137
*Individual results may vary
