Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery, is an increasingly common procedure that addresses the overdevelopment of breast tissue in men. This condition can cause physical discomfort, emotional distress, and self-consciousness. Gynecomastia surgery offers a lasting solution, helping men achieve a more sculpted and masculine chest contour. In this blog post, we will cover what gynecomastia is, what causes it, and what to expect if you’re considering Gynecomastia surgery.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition where men develop excess breast tissue, leading to a fuller chest appearance. This can range from a small amount of extra tissue around the nipple area to a larger, more noticeable amount that gives the chest a rounded or feminine shape. Gynecomastia can occur at any age, often surfacing during puberty, but it can also develop later in life. The condition may affect one or both sides of the chest, and in some cases, the tissue can be tender or painful.
Causes of Gynecomastia
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones like estrogen and testosterone play a key role in the development of gynecomastia. When estrogen levels are higher, it can cause breast tissue to grow. Hormonal imbalances can occur naturally during puberty or later in life due to aging.
- Medications: Certain medications, including some antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, and steroids, can contribute to gynecomastia.
- Lifestyle Factors: Alcohol, recreational drugs, and certain supplements can also increase the risk of developing gynecomastia. Excessive weight gain can lead to pseudo-gynecomastia, where fat deposits make the chest appear fuller, even though there is not an overgrowth of breast tissue.
- Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, and thyroid disorders, can lead to hormonal imbalances, which in turn may cause gynecomastia.
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery involves the removal of excess glandular tissue, fat, and sometimes skin to achieve a flatter, more masculine chest contour. There are a couple of different techniques that may be used based on the patient’s needs:
- Liposuction: Liposuction alone is often sufficient in patients with excess fatty tissue of the breast but minimal fibrous glandular tissue. This involves using a thin tube, or cannula, to break down and remove fat from the chest area.
- Excision: For those with significant fibrous glandular tissue, excision is necessary. An incision is made to remove excess breast tissue directly.
- Combined Excision & Liposuction: Most gynecomastia patients benefit from the combination of liposuction of fatty tissue, and excision of glandular tissue to achieve a flatter, and masculine chest shape.
- Skin Excision: In some cases, excess skin is also removed, in addition to the use of liposuction and glandular tissue excision. This technique is more common for patients with a substantial amount of excess tissue, and skin.
What to Expect from Gynecomastia Surgery
- Before Surgery: You’ll have a consultation with Dr.Behmand to discuss your goals and the best approach for your specific case. He will assess your chest and may recommend certain preoperative tests. You’ll also receive instructions to follow before surgery.
- During Surgery: Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The surgery generally lasts between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity.
- Recovery: Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, though it’s important to avoid strenuous activities for about 6 weeks. You may experience some swelling and bruising, but these should subside within a few weeks. For the first 6 weeks, you will also wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support your new chest contour.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
- Improved Self-Confidence: Many men report feeling more confident in fitted shirts, swimwear, and during physical activities.
- Enhanced Physical Comfort: Reducing excess tissue can alleviate discomfort, especially during physical exercise.
- Long-Lasting Results: The results of gynecomastia surgery are generally permanent, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Right for You?
If you’re considering gynecomastia surgery, the first step is to set up a consultation to determine the possible cause of your gynecomastia, and discuss the best options for achieving your desired outcome. You should be in good overall health, at a stable weight.
Gynecomastia surgery is a safe and effective procedure that helps many men achieve a more comfortable and confident sense of self each year. If you’ve been dealing with concerns about your chest’s appearance, considering male breast reduction could be a positive first step toward feeling more at ease with your body.
How much is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery cost is in the range of $8,000 to $12,000. The exact cost for each person is calculated by the type of procedure, and amount of time required in the operating room.