Male Breast Surgery (Gynecomastia)
Male Breast Surgery (Gynecomastia)
Causes
All breast tissue generally develops as a response to circulating hormones, especially estrogen. The balance between estrogen and testosterone helps determine whether breast development will occur or not. Men and women both have circulating testosterone and estrogen – just at different ratios. Males, like females, have a “bud” from which the breast develops. Females have high levels of estrogen that throughout adolescence will cause breast maturation. Males generally exhibit low levels of estrogen and higher levels of testosterone, thus the relative lack of breast development. If males have low testosterone or high estrogen, the breast “bud” can overdevelop. Other causes of gynecomastia include marijuana or heroin use, medications (often used for depression, hypertension, or seizures), and adrenal/testicular tumors.
Gynecomastia Treatment Options
When making a decision regarding treatment, the duration and severity of breast development are important considerations. Plastic surgeons will allow most adolescents at least 2 to 3 years for possible self-correction prior to any treatment. A thorough work-up is necessary prior to treatment to evaluate for any medications or diseases that may be causing the problem. For any gynecomastia lasting greater than 1 to 2 years, generally, some, if not most, of the breast hypertrophy becomes permanent.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery offers numerous benefits that go beyond physical changes. Patients undergoing this procedure often experience enhanced self-esteem and confidence, a significant boost in body proportions, and increased comfort in clothing choices. By addressing the excess glandular tissue or fat in the male chest, the surgery not only reshapes the chest area but also positively impacts mental and emotional well-being.
Ideal Candidates for Surgery
Determining ideal candidates for male breast surgery in Houston involves several factors. Candidates typically include individuals in good overall health, non-smokers, and those with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. Health considerations and the individual’s age play a role in candidacy determination, ensuring optimal results and minimizing risks.
Combining Gynecomastia Surgery with Other Procedures
Gynecomastia surgery can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to achieve more comprehensive and enhanced results. This combination often includes additional body contouring techniques such as liposuction or procedures like a tummy tuck.
By integrating surgical gynecomastia treatment with complementary procedures, individuals can address multiple areas of concern simultaneously, achieving a more harmonious body contour. Liposuction, for instance, can further refine chest contours by removing excess fat, while a tummy tuck can address abdominal concerns, resulting in a more balanced overall appearance.
How is gynecomastia surgery performed?
Medicines are generally not effective in the treatment; surgery is the primary mode of correction.
The goal in male breasts is essentially to remove most, if not all, of it – in this situation, scars cannot be well hidden.
Options include liposuction and/or direct excision. For liposuction, small incisions will be made and the breast tissue/fat removed. Direct incision requires an incision usually around the areola and removal of breast tissue. The options for surgery will be tailored to the individual patient. The surgery lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, and a compressive vest is worn for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Swelling should subside between 6 and 9 months to arrive at the final contour.
How will I recover from gynecomastia surgery?
There will be swelling, soreness, and bruising in the area for several days. Patients are required to wear a compression garment for the next few weeks. Physical activity must be limited for 4-6 weeks to maximize the aesthetic result.
Most patients return to work in 2-3 weeks.
Results from gynecomastia surgery
Gynecomastia surgery results are visible immediately but continue to improve with time as swelling subsides and the scarring begins to fade. Also, a post-operative scar regimen will be implemented to maximize scar healing.
The risks involved are the same as with any surgery, but the procedure is generally safe and uncomplicated.
What are the risks involved in gynecomastia surgery?
As with any other surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved in gynecomastia surgery. Such risks include scarring, breast asymmetry, loss of sensation in the area, and other typical surgical risks, such as bleeding, anesthetic reactions, and infection. However, most people with gynecomastia surgery recover from the surgery without any serious complications.
Are you interested in gynecomastia surgery?
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