- Gynecomastia consists of excess localized fat, excess glandular tissue development and excess breast skin in some cases. It can affect one or both breasts.
- The overdevelopment of breasts affects 40-60 percent of men.
- Hormonal imbalance is often the cause of gynecomastia in boys who are going through puberty and middle-age and older men.
- Certain medications may be to blame for gynecomastia. Steroids prescribed for certain conditions or used by athletes to build muscle and enhance performance are a major cause. Anti-anxiety medications, tricyclic antidepressants, antibiotics, heart medications and AIDS medications are among some of the other medications linked to gynecomastia.
- Alcohol use and street drugs such as amphetamines, marijuana, heroin and methadone may cause gynecomastia.
- Several health conditions are linked to gynecomastia, including aging, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, tumors, kidney failure, liver failure and malnutrition.
- Liposuction may be the only procedure necessary if the concern is excess fatty tissue. Incisions are made around the areola, the dark area of skin that surrounds the nipple. A cannula is inserted to loosen and suction out the fat.
- If excess glandular tissue and excess skin are the concern, surgical excision may be required. A new nipple placement and reduction in the size and shape of the areola are done at this time as well, if necessary. A combination of liposuction and excision techniques may be necessary to achieve the best outcomes.
- Recovery from the outpatient surgery isn’t difficult. Patients can expect initial discomfort and swelling that resolves quickly. You may have drains and need to wear a compression garment for a certain period of time to reduce swelling and help with the chest contour.
If you are interested in learning more about male breast reduction for gynecomastia, call our office at 801-571-2020 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Watterson.
