Men with noticeably enlarged breasts may be in need of a procedure called gynecomastia excision, or male breast reduction. Patients with oversized male breasts are suffering from a condition known as gynecomastia. While this condition can be treated, it must first be properly diagnosed so that the appropriate surgical measures can be taken.
Our team at Associates in Plastic Surgery has helped countless men with their gynecomastia by providing them with the surgical care they need. Our board-certified plastic surgeon focuses on providing results that look incredibly natural and suit the personal aesthetic needs of each individual patient.
Gynecomastia is a condition of enlarged or overdeveloped breasts in men and is also known as “man boobs.” The appearance of gynecomastia is the result of excess male breast tissue. The issue is further exacerbated by the accumulation of excess fat in the breasts.
There are several known factors that can lead to the development of gynecomastia. It can be the result of hormonal changes, hereditary conditions, weight changes, disease, or the use of certain medications.
Men of any age can be affected and it can occur in one or both breasts. Gynecomastia commonly develops in males who are going through puberty; the significant changes in the balance of hormones in the body cause this problem. It also commonly occurs later in life as the body decreases the amount of hormones it produces.
Gynecomastia excision (male breast reduction) is a surgical procedure that reduces excess fat, glandular tissue, and/or skin surrounding the breast area. In most cases this is accomplished using a small incision around the edge of the areola to excise the glandular fatty tissue. Often liposuction is combined to contour a leaner more masculine chest. Patients who undergo gynecomastia excision discover greater confidence through a renewed self-image.
Male breast reduction surgery is recommended for men who are bothered by oversized male breast tissue. Men who want to increase the masculinity of their chest area are candidates for gynecomastia surgery. Patients who are frustrated by the lack of significant results from diet and exercise in reducing their oversized breasts may be good candidates.
Ideal candidates are in good physical and mental condition. Men whose psychological, physical, and social wellbeing are being affected by their gynecomastia are excellent candidates for this procedure.
Candidates must be at a healthy body weight with realistic expectations from male breast reduction surgery. Patients who have no post-surgery healing problems and can follow post-op instructions are the best candidates for gynecomastia surgery.
After performing an exam and reviewing pertinent health history, your surgeon may order lab work and other pre-operative tests as deemed necessary. Lastly, you will meet with a surgery coordinator to discuss fees, surgery scheduling options, and make a pre-operative appointment to meet with the nurse for final preparation prior to surgery.
During your initial consultation, you will meet with our board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. Your surgeon will provide you with a detailed explanation of the procedure, answer your questions, show you before-and-after photos, and determine a surgical plan of care based on your expected outcome.
Your surgery will be performed in our AAAASF accredited office surgical suite with a qualified anesthesia provider. General anesthesia is used to perform the male breast-reduction procedure and operative time is approximately two hours or less. However, minor versions of gynecomastia can be excised under local anesthesia with IV sedation and the operative time and cost is less.
The male breast reduction surgery may include a liposuction procedure to remove the excess fatty tissue. Excision will be used when the removal of glandular breast tissue or excess skin is necessary. In addition, the areolae can be repositioned or resized. Incisions will be sutured and bandaged to complete the surgery.
Pricing for Gynecomastia Excision includes doctor fees, hospital fees, and anesthesia.
*Prices may vary based on the specific needs of the patient and scope of the procedure
We are in partnership with CareCredit to provide our patients with financing options for the procedure.
Most male breast reduction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients are discharged home the same day. It is important that you secure a ride home following your surgery, since driving is not recommended.
Your nurse will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions at your pre-operative visit and will review them again prior to your discharge home. Swelling and discomfort are to be expected but should dissipate over the initial days of your recovery. Recovery time for a male breast reduction is about 3-5 days, and most patients take pain medication for a few days.
Patients can typically return to work within 3-5 days after gynecomastia, but heavy lifting, pushing or pulling, and strenuous activities like exercising should be avoided for the first four to six weeks following your surgery. If you experience anything concerning during your recovery, contact your doctor right away and have the issue properly examined and diagnosed.
After obesity, the primary cause of gynecomastia in men under forty is an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen hormones. Shifting levels of hormones can stem from lifestyle factors, certain medical conditions, and certain medications.
Certain medications used to treat depression, prostate issues, and high blood pressure are among those believed to contribute to gynecomastia. The possibility of increased breast tissue is a side effect that is often undiscussed.
Conditions affecting the liver, thyroid, pituitary gland, adrenal glands, or testicles can affect proper hormone balance and lead to the development of excess male breast tissue. Patients should consult with their physician to rule out health concerns as the underlying cause of their gynecomastia.
Highly processed packaged foods can contain ingredients that can stunt testosterone production, such as polycarbonate. Heavy animal and plant estrogen consumption, which may be found in chicken or soy-based products, can contribute to male breast tissue formation.
Anabolic steroids can contain high levels of synthetic testosterone; doctors believe that metabolic regulators attempt to balance hormones with increased estrogen production in response.
Pre-clinical studies indicate that estrogen levels are increased and testosterone levels are decreased by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active component in marijuana. While hard clinical data is not yet available, the commonality of occurrence among patients who engage in long-term regular use has supported this theory.
Beer consumption can contribute to gynecomastia; hops, the plant material used in brewing beer, mimic natural estrogen. Beer, liquor, and mixers will increase the number of calories that convert to fat cells.
“A friend informed me about this surgeon- I personally saw my friends chest before his gynecomastia surgery and after . Perfect results were performed.
I had a consultation- I believe on a Tuesday and had the surgery on (3 days later )Friday afternoon. I could tell the results would be perfect from the first time I was able to shower after surgery.
I am post op 4 weeks and my chest is perfect. I am very impressed, to say the least .
Dr. John Dean is truly an amazing surgeon . I highly recommend him to any bodybuilders suffering from gynecomastia.”
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If you have any questions about male breast reduction in Baton Rouge, visit us at Associates in Plastic Surgery. Set up your consultation—contact us today.
