Gynecomastia – When Is Surgery The Best Option?
For men, a tight, square chest represents youthfulness and physical fitness and is considered a sign of masculinity. Unfortunately, for many men, it is a goal that seems unattainable because 40% to 60% percent of men are affected by gynecomastia or enlarged breasts. For men that struggle with enlarged breasts, or “man boobs,†anything that requires them to expose their chest can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness.
Gynecomastia is the enlargement of the gland tissue of the male breast which is caused by an imbalance in hormone levels. Unlike fat deposits created from obesity, gynecomastia causes the chest to develop firm glandular tissue, rather than fat deposits, behind the nipple which is not responsive to diet or exercise. Although the exact cause is unknown, there are several factors connected to gynecomastia including hormone imbalance, genetics, obesity, taking steroids or medications containing steroids, and aging. Although gynecomastia that occurs from fluctuating hormones due to growth or aging cannot be prevented, it can be corrected.
In severe cases, or when scar tissue has developed, a male breast reduction procedure can help restore a normal appearance to the chest. A circular incision is made around the nipple and glandular tissue, or any palpable nodules will be extracted. Dr. Shapiro typically uses VASER Liposculpture to remove fat and help tighten the skin. If the chest seems deflated after removal of the fat and glandular tissue, Dr. Shapiro will inject the patient’s own fat around the pectoral muscle to sculpt a masculine, muscular shape. In extreme cases, excess skin will also need to be removed.
After surgery, patients wear a compression garment for three to six weeks to prevent the build-up of fluids and to promote permanency of the procedure results. Some patients experience bruising and mild discomfort, but most patients can return to work and normal activities within five days. Swelling will begin to dissipate after approximately three weeks, revealing final results.
If you are tired of feeling self-conscious and ready to improve your quality of life, call (480) 451-1700 to set-up your consultation with Dr. Shapiro and develop a customized treatment plan that will give you a chest that makes you feel confident.
