What Exactly is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia refers to the enlargement of the breast tissue in males, which gives the breasts a feminine shape. It is a condition that can affect men of any age but often starts during the adolescent years.
Most cases of gynecomastia that appear during adolescence resolve without the need for medical intervention, but there are times when the condition does not go away. Older men may also develop gynecomastia in response to factors such as, hormone imbalance, certain types of medication, obesity, and steroid use.
Since gynecomastia is the result of extra breast tissue, exercise will not improve the condition. Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts and may cause them to look uneven.
How Can You Get Rid of Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction surgery is the go-to solution for enlarged breast tissue in males. Removing the excess breast tissue makes the chest flatter and improves contours, giving the chest a more masculine shape.
What To Expect From Male Breast Reduction
Male breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure that may be performed under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.
The incision for male breast reduction surgery is typically made around the areola, the pigmented area that surrounds the nipple. Since the incision is made along the edge of the areola, the scars are inconspicuous after surgery.
Liposuction is sometimes performed alongside male breast reduction surgery to remove fatty tissue in the breast. The liposuction technique used will depend on the amount of fat that needs to be removed.
Patients generally have to wear a compression garment for 3-4 weeks after surgery to help minimize swelling and support the treated area during recovery.
The final results of gynecomastia surgery can take anywhere from 3-6 months to show.
