Do You Need Gynecomastia Surgery or Liposuction?
Enlarged breast tissue in males, or gynecomastia, affects up to 70% of boys during puberty. And for some boys, the symptoms carry on into adulthood or start up again during middle age or later.
Excess breast tissue stemming from weight gain and fatty deposits means you’re dealing with false gynecomastia. In that case, lifestyle changes that promote healthy weight loss can often help you reach a smaller, more desired chest size.
If you have true gynecomastia, on the other hand, improved dietary and exercise habits won’t help. If you’re bothered by your plump breasts, cosmetic surgery and liposuction can help.
Dr. Matthew Lynch in East Windsor, New Jersey, applies his specialized expertise in male breast reduction surgery to help you reach your aesthetic goals.
Read on to learn more about gynecomastia and effective treatment.
Gynecomastia basics
Gynecomastia is related to an imbalance in your estrogen and testosterone levels, which can happen at any age. Excessive breast tissue is likely when your body creates high amounts of estrogen and little testosterone.
Issues that may contribute to this imbalance include:
- Natural changes during puberty
- Changes related to aging
- Certain prescription medications
- Excessive alcohol use
- Underlying medical conditions, like an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)
Before considering potential treatment, your doctor may run tests to pinpoint the underlying cause. In some cases, addressing the cause does away with the added breast tissue. In other cases, it lingers on.
Surgery and liposuction for gynecomastia
Gynecomastia isn’t dangerous, but many men feel self-conscious about it enough to seek out treatment. If that’s the case for you, Dr. Lynch may recommend liposuction surgery. In other words, you won’t have to choose between these options, but consider a blend of both. And he’ll customize your treatment to suit your specific wants and needs.
During your breast reduction surgery for gynecomastia, Dr. Lynch will make a small incision around your areolas to remove excess tissue. He’ll then reposition your areolas and nipples to create a traditionally masculine, defined chest – and use liposuction to sculpt and contour your chest. He may also remove excess skin that has stretched to fit your larger size.
Recovering from your gynecomastia surgery and liposuction
After your surgery and liposuction for gynecomastia, you’ll wear a compression garment for several weeks for support and to keep swelling down as you heal. Meanwhile, you’ll likely need to avoid vigorous exercise for three weeks. Less intense activities, however, like working in an office, can usually be resumed within a few days.
To learn more about gynecomastia or get the treatment you desire, call Dr. Lynch or request an online appointment to visit our office today.