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Enlarged Breasts in Men – Treatments and Causes

Enlarged Breasts in Men – Treatments and Causes

Over-developed or enlarged breasts in men can occur at any age. This condition, called Gynecomastia, can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity, obesity or the use of certain drugs. It can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self-confidence. Some men may even avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition. Below we’ll discuss what how to treat male gynecomastia and what to expect.

Are You A Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia is usually caused by an excess of fat localized to the chest region, extra glandular development in the breast, and sometimes, excess breast skin, which gives a drooping appearance to the male breast. The condition is commonly found in both breasts but can occur on one side only.

Good candidates for gynecomastia surgery include healthy men of normal weight who are non-smokers and non-drug users, whose condition has not been corrected with medical treatments. Teenagers may benefit from surgery, as well, although secondary procedures may be needed in the future should breast development continue.

What To Expect With Surgery

When you meet with your plastic surgeon, you will likely discuss your specific concerns about the appearance of your chest, any medical conditions, prior medical treatments or surgeries you have undergone for gynecomastia. Your physician will also ask you about your current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drug use.

You’ll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires, and lifestyle. The success and safety of your surgery depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation.

Read About 5 Key Questions To Ask Your Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon During A Consultation

Your surgeon will evaluate your overall health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors. Diagnostic testing, including blood tests, may be required to determine the underlying cause of gynecomastia. Your surgeon will examine your breasts and may take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, and placement of your nipples and areolas. Photographs will be taken and will become a part of your confidential medical record.

Surgical correction of male gynecomastia may be performed in an accredited, office-based surgical facility, licensed ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital. Post-operatively, you will have to follow your surgeon’s instructions about dressing changes and activity levels. Most patients return to their pre-operative level of activity by 2-4 weeks after the procedure.

In many cases, the final results of gynecomastia surgery are permanent. However, if gynecomastia is due to the use of certain prescription medications, recreational drugs (including anabolic steroids and marijuana), or weight gain, you must be fully free from these substances and remain at a stable weight in order to maintain your results.

At our cosmetic & plastic surgery offices in Fairfield County, CT, our plastic surgeons offer male gynecomastia surgery, as well as neck and face lifts, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty (nose surgery), liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). ASC offices are located in the towns of Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, Ridgefield and Southbury.

 

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Multi-Specialty Private Practice with six locations in Fairfield County, CT