About Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a medical condition that can affect men at any age or stage in life, causing the chest to develop excessive breast tissue. It is commonly seen in young boys going through puberty, as well as older men whose bodies are changing due to aging. While the cause is unknown, most doctors like Dr. Aisha Baron believe it is related to an imbalance of the hormones, estrogen and testosterone. Gynecomastia creates the appearance of “male breasts,” which can make men feel less confident and embarrassed to remove their shirt. Dr. Baron performs male breast reduction surgery to remove excess fat and tissue from the breast(s) caused by gynecomastia. The result of this surgery is a more muscular, toned chest that can restore your confidence and self-esteem.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for male breast reduction surgery have been diagnosed with gynecomastia and have tried other treatments such as diet, exercise, or medication. The most favorable candidates are those who are in good health, but need assistance getting rid of excess fat and tissue in the breasts. Patients with other medical conditions should discuss their medical history thoroughly with a surgeon prior to surgery.
What To Expect
A male breast reduction surgery is an effective method of treatment for gynecomastia. Usually performed as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia, the surgeon will use a combination of liposuction and tissue excision to decrease the size of the breasts and remove any unnecessary fat and tissue. Using liposuction, fat is removed through small incisions made on each side of the chest, along the edge of the areola, or within the armpit, depending on the best and safest technique to meet your cosmetic needs.
Other Considerations
Gynecomastia can affect one or both of the breasts, in different ways. In most cases, it is not a serious condition, but it can cause some physical ailments such as back pain and emotional stress from embarrassment. Male breast reduction surgery not only removes excess breast tissue, but also sculpts the chest for a more masculine look. In more severe cases of gynecomastia, patients may require a tissue excision. During a tissue excision, the surgeon is able to remove more tissue and skin than with liposuction alone.
Following male breast reduction surgery, no matter the technique used, you will experience bruising and swelling on and around the chest area for the first couple of weeks. Although you may feel sore after surgery, this will subside after a few days. Some men may experience a loss of sensation in the chest area, but this is only temporary. Each patient will experience a different healing process and should follow the surgeon’s care instructions for optimal results.
Shirts Optional
Although gynecomastia is a common condition that is not life-threatening, it may cause you to feel insecure about your appearance. If you suffer from gynecomastia and are considering male breast reduction surgery, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Baron at her office in Marietta, GA to learn more about your treatment options. We will work closely with you to create a care plan that best suits your needs and cosmetic goals.
