Breast Reduction for Men

Friday, January 1st, 2010
Breast Reduction for Men Gynecomastia photo

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Gynecomastia is a condition where male mammary glands become abnormally large resulting in enlarged male breasts. The condition usually occurs during a time when the man is going through hormonal changes. Male hormonal changes usually occur in infancy, adolescence and old age. The word gynecomastia literally means “woman breast.” Breast reduction for men (Gynecomastia) is available, and has become a common plastic surgery for men over the years.

Causes for Gynecomastia

More than half of male infants have enlarged breasts due to the estrogen passed on through the mother’s blood. The condition usually disappears a few weeks after birth. Sometimes the causes are never discovered. Many times the cause is simply unknown. There are different conditions and medications that can cause gynecomastia such as:

• Changes in the hormones estrogen and testosterone
• Heredity conditions
• Tumors
• Chronic diseases such as endocrine disorders
• Anabolic steroids
• Blood pressure medicines
• Anti-depressants
• Marijuana
• Heroin
• Alcohol
• use
• AIDS medications
• Ulcer medications
• Cancer treatments 

Some men and young boys who are overweight have excess fatty tissue that gives the illusion of breasts. This is not considered to be gynecomastia, but is instead called pseudogynecomastia. This condition can be treated by diet and excursive where-as true gynecomastia will not go away with fat loss. 

Men with gynecomastia suffer emotionally as well as physically. They suffer from insecurity and humiliation. Some men even feel shame as the stigma of having “manboobs” is almost unbearable. Teen boys can be ruthlessly teased leading to self confidence issues until the condition is resolved. Plastic surgery for men under these circumstances is highly recommended by professionals. 

Breast Reduction for Men (Gynecomastia)

The treatment for enlarged breasts is liposuction or plastic surgery. In extreme cases both liposuction and surgery will be needed. Teens will need surgery or liposuction if the gynecomasita has been present for more than two years. Some teens will require a second round of treatment later in life if the condition resurfaces. 

The reasons for performing breast reduction for men go beyond the emotional need to remove the breasts. In addition to reconstruction of the chest contours, it must be determined if there are any cancerous or suspicious lesions in the breast tissue that is causing the enlargement. 

Plastic surgery for men

Cosmetic Surgery for men procedures for breast reduction are basically the same as for women who have breast reduction surgery. The first step is t o consult with a plastic surgeon to evaluate candidacy for breast reduction. Once the determination has been made the surgeon will schedule a surgery date and start pre-op procedures such as scheduling blood work and weaning off of some types of medications like blood thinners. 

Risks Associated With Surgery

In addition to the normal risks associated with any major surgery, the following are additional risks of surgery for breast reduction for men: 

• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation
• Breast contour and shape irregularities
• Skin discoloration
• Permanent pigmentation changes
• Breast asymmetry
• Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (this is called fat necrosis)
• Possibility of revision surgery for additional tightening or repositioning of the breasts 

It is wise to always consider all alternatives available prior to having surgery like breast reduction for men. Consult with your doctor to check if you are a candidate for such a procedure.

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DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this web site should be taken as medical advice. The articles published on this site have not been written or reviewed by certified professionals (doctor, surgeon, etc). Neither is this site owned by such a professional. Please consult with your doctor if you are considering cosmetic surgery.