Ask Dr. Elliott: Male Breast Reduction & Gynecomastia
Some people seek plastic surgery as a way to assist with some physical condition or difficulty, like overly large breasts that can cause back pain and posture issues. Conversely, some procedures only provide solutions to cosmetic issues. One thing I’ve learned in my many years of performing plastic surgery is that for many people, the impact of these cosmetic alterations can be just as significant (if not more so). Male breast reduction is intended to help men who suffer from a lack of confidence and self-esteem due to gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement. For more information on this procedure and the outstanding results it can provide, I have answered a few common questions about male breast reduction and gynecomastia.
Question #1: Are there things that can increase my risk of gynecomastia?
While many cases of male breast enlargement are caused naturally due to hormone fluctuation or hereditary factors, some lifestyle habits and behaviors can also increase your risk of developing gynecomastia. Certain medications and drugs including steroids, recreational drugs like marijuana, some antibiotics, heart medicines, and more can increase potential gynecomastia risk. Drinking alcohol can also be a contributing factor to male breast enlargement.
Question #2: How do I know if I need male breast reduction or chest liposuction?
Determining which procedure is the best choice for your needs depends entirely on the cause of your breast enlargement. For men who experience true gynecomastia, male breast reduction will be required to remove the excess breast tissue that is causing your issue. Some men only experience excess fat around the chest area. In these cases, liposuction can help. We will discuss your options during the pre-surgery consultation appointment.
Question #3: How long until I will notice the results from my male breast reduction?
You should notice a change to your chest contour immediately following your male breast reduction procedure. These results will only improve in the following weeks and months as post-surgical swelling goes down and your final results begin to settle in. It’s important to follow your plastic surgeon’s post-surgical instructions closely to achieve the best possible results from your surgery.
It’s amazing to see the profound impact that male breast reduction can have on men who suffer from gynecomastia. If you think you might be a good candidate for this procedure, an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon is the first step towards achieving the new appearance you deserve. For more information on male breast reduction or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation today, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. And don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips, news, photos, and more.