Gynecomastia in West Bloomfield, MI

Gynecomastia is the medical term for male breast enlargement. It is a condition that can create a female-like chest due to abnormally growing breast tissue. In many cases, gynecomastia is caused by an underlying hormonal issue. This condition can also be caused by certain drugs, steroids, obesity, or genetics. Men with this issue typically feel embarrassed, especially in circumstances where the upper body and chest are seen, such as by the pool or in the gym. In West Bloomfield, MI, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Sosa offers male breast reduction surgery for men who have gynecomastia. This surgical procedure has a very high success rate. It is considered one of the more popular cosmetic procedures for men at Bloomfield Plastic Surgery.

Male breast reduction surgery is a procedure for men who have enlarged breasts that cannot be reduced with a healthy lifestyle or exercise and diet. If you are embarrassed by the appearance of your chest (but physically healthy), you may benefit from gynecomastia surgery by Dr. Sosa at Bloomfield Plastic Surgery. Teenagers may also benefit from gynecomastia surgery; however, a secondary procedure may be warranted later during adulthood if abnormal breast tissue continues to form. During your first appointment with Dr. Sosa, treatment options will be given and may include the possibility of undergoing surgery to repair the condition.

Liposuction is usually utilized during surgery for gynecomastia. With the patient safely under general anesthesia, liposuction reduces excess pockets of fat from the chest wall. Next, any skin showing laxity will be removed to create a more tightened appearance, and then the areola and nipple will be placed into a proper position. In most cases, this method requires a small incision close to where the glandular tissue collects. Once the fat and loose skin have been removed, Dr. Sosa will pull and tighten the remaining skin.

Following your gynecomastia treatment, the chest will be secured with a medical garment to help minimize bruising and swelling. In advanced cases where a reconstructive method was used, a drainage tube may be placed to assist with fluid. The results following male breast reduction surgery are immediately noticeable and most patients are extremely satisfied with the physical change. The incisions made during treatment take several weeks to heal and scarring is usually barely visible. With your enhanced chest, you can get permission from Dr. Sosa to engage in exercise and strength training, which will complement the end results.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is caused by a disruption in hormone balance. Typically, gynecomastia is connected to the long-term use of anabolic steroids or androgens. It may also be caused by using illegal drugs, including marijuana or heroin. Gynecomastia may also be triggered by some medical conditions (for example, hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, and tumors), plus some medications (highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, chemotherapy, and anti-anxiety medications).

How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which may cause swelling, tenderness, and pain. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia), so Dr. Sosa suggests patients try to lose weight by following an exercise plan and healthy diet before seeking treatment for gynecomastia. If you have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Sosa can perform an examination and tests to diagnose gynecomastia. This may include blood tests, a mammogram, or a biopsy to rule out other conditions like breast cancer and mastitis (infection of the breast tissue).

Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
The most effective treatment for gynecomastia is male breast reduction surgery. Although they are not approved for the treatment of gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (for example, Raloxifene or Tamoxifen) might give you minimal improvements. Strength training to build the pectoral muscles will not reduce the amount of breast tissue and could make the breasts appear larger.

If you suffer from the effects of gynecomastia, we welcome you to get in touch with our office to schedule a private consult with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Sosa to learn more about our male breast reduction surgery at Bloomfield Plastic Surgery. After treatment for male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), you can stop covering up your chest at the gym and pool. We have worked with many West Bloomfield, MI men and have enjoyed watching them reclaim their confidence.