Dealing with Gynecomastia

For many men, gynecomastia (“man boobs”) is an embarrassing and frustrating issue. Fortunately, at my practice, male breast reduction is an effective solution for most men that can help. Below, I’ll outline exactly what gynecomastia is and how male breast augmentation can help this common problem.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue, and it can happen at any time in life.

At some stages of life (for example, during infancy and puberty), gynecomastia may be completely normal and is generally the result of changing hormones. However, other causes of enlarged breast tissue during young adult and adult life can create gynecomastia that is uncomfortable and even painful. Furthermore, this enlargement of breast tissue may affect the male psyche.

Many of the patients I see with gynecomastia are embarrassed and uncomfortable. This can affect your life in numerous ways. You may be self-conscious about going shirtless or heading to the beach. It can even interfere with your intimate relationships and sex life.

Gynecomastia comes in different forms, ranging from the basic appearance of a fatty breast area or what feels like a firm lump of breast tissue resting beneath the nipple, to puffy areolas, long nipples, or a combination of these issues.

To assess a man’s particular case of gynecomastia, I will need to meet with him for a consultation. At this appointment, I will examine the area closely, and together, we’ll decide upon optimal treatment. 

How to Fix Man Boobs With Male Breast Augmentation

Generally speaking, these are the procedures that would be carried out for the following forms of gynecomastia.

Firm Breast Tissue Lump Beneath the Nipple

When “true gynecomastia” is present, it may feel like a small egg is sitting right beneath the nipple areola. Under general or local anesthetic, this firm lump of tissue can be removed through a small incision.

Puffy Areola

While the contour of the breasts may be normal, a puffy areola is a common issue some men face. This puffiness can be reduced by using local anesthesia and removing the excess tissue beneath the areola. 

Long Nipple

Long nipples can be shortened in both men and women. This simple procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

Droopy Breasts

Often, when men lose a significant amount of weight, the skin on their breasts refuses to “bounce back,” resulting in a droopy-looking chest. In this case, we can simply excise the excess skin, but it’s important to note that light scars may result. Cases of gynecomastia are often best treated early in life when the skin is more elastic and the need for skin removal is less likely.

Fatty Breast Tissue

Sometimes, I encounter “fake gynecomastia,” also called pseudogynecomastia. In this situation, the problem is that the breast is simply overly fatty, and I can fix this with a basic liposuction procedure while the patient is sleeping.

Combinations

In most cases, a combination approach is taken, using both liposuction and direct excision to diminish breast size. 

Summary

Gynecomastia can be both a physical and emotional problem for many men, but there’s never anything to be ashamed of if it’s a challenge you’re facing. The good news is this issue can easily be cleared up with basic cosmetic procedures. In fact, male breast reduction surgery is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries I perform for men at my offices in Virginia and Maryland. 

If this cosmetic issue is causing you discomfort or leaving you feeling embarrassed or frustrated, now may be the perfect time to book a consultation for treatment. I  look forward to helping you choose the treatment that is best for you.

May 16, 2019 12:10 pm
Categories: Blog, Breast Augmentation