If you’ve been over at Sleeping Bear Dunes or out on a boat waterskiing, it’s not unusual to hear a guy referred to as having “man boobs.” Most people assume the guy’s larger than normal breasts are simply a result of him being overweight. But in 50% of men, they actually have a condition known as gynecomastia or male breast enlargement. So, while it seems that the enlarged breasts are the man’s own fault, reality is often different. And enlarged breasts can really affect a man’s self-esteem.
To fix the condition, Our Elite Plastic Surgery surgeons perform male breast reduction.
What leads to gynecomastia?
The causes of adult gynecomastia aren’t fully understood. Some men as they age experience hormonal changes that cause enlarged breasts. More often, taking certain drugs and medicines can cause the condition:
- Antibiotics
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Steroids
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- AIDS treatment drugs
- Heartburn treatment drugs
Men can also develop gynecomastia through marijuana and heroin use, or from excessive alcohol consumption.
Pubescent boys can also have gynecomastia. Actually, 70% have the condition at some point in their puberty. This is due to estrogen and testosterone levels that fluctuate wildly in puberty. Most teenage gynecomastia passes as hormone levels stabilize.
Breast reduction surgery
Men with gynecomastia have a firm, rubbery mass underneath the nipple area. The size of this mass is around 1.5 inches across and it may be sensitive to the touch.
If surgery is required, small incisions are made in the armpits or around the areolae. Through those incisions, excess fat and glandular tissue are removed and excess skin is trimmed. Liposuction may be added to remove fat pockets.
If you’re tired of being self-conscious about your chest, call the team at Elite Plastic Surgery at (616) 459-1907 and set up a consultation for gynecomastia.
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