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Gynecomastia

Breast Augmentation in Houston, TX

Gynecomastia is a condition exhibited in men, consisting of overdeveloped or enlarged breast(s). A potential hindrance to self-confidence, this condition can make men feel emotionally strained and embarrassed to participate in physical activities or engage in intimacy.

Gynecomastia is a surgery performed on men who have over-developed or enlarged breasts. Gynecomastia treatment, also known as “reduction mammaplasty,” will be able to flatten the chest and leave the patients with a more masculine chest contour.

To learn more about Gynecomastia or to discuss your different options, request a consultation today.

Dr. Livingston

Christopher Livingston, MD

“The most important part of plastic surgery is achieving a youthful, refreshed look, with minimal downtime.”

Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive surgeon

Chris Livingston, MD

I believe that every design is personal. The connection we have with clients determines how the projects will look at the end of the design process. We must understand the clients and bond with them, be a part of their dream. Their dream is our dream.

Is gynecomastia Right for Me?

Characterized by excess fat and/or glandular tissue in one or both breasts, and in severe cases, excess skin, and downward pointing nipples and enlarged areolas, gynecomastia can be caused due to a number of factors that include:

  • Hormonal changes
  • Heredity
  • Weight fluctuation
  • Use of anabolic steroidal drugs
  • Use of certain prescription medications
  • Use of marijuana

If you have signs of male breast development, Dr.  Chris Livingston assists with a reduction mammaplasty to flatten the chest and create a more masculine chest contour. In most cases, ultrasonic and traditional liposuction in Houston is sufficient; however, in more severe cases, skin and glandular tissue excision may be necessary to achieve the desired result.

An excellent Plastic Surgeon and Staff. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

– Paul (Google Reviews)

WHAT ARE THE PROCEDURAL STEPS OF GYNECOMASTIA TREATMENT?

Once general anesthesia is administered, Dr. Livingston will begin the chosen procedure preoperatively with ultrasonic liposuction (“lipoplasty”), excision, or both to remove the excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue.

If the patient is only experiencing excess fatty tissue, liposuction is all that is necessary. By creating a small incision where the fat is to be removed, Dr. Livingston will insert a hollow tube called a “cannula,” and will proceed to use ultrasonic energy to dissolve the fat followed by fat removal utilizing suction to achieve a new contour.

Should the patient show more severe signs of gynecomastia, direct excision may be required. By creating incisions similar to a reduction mammaplasty performed for female patients, the male chest, nipples, and areolas can be shaped and positioned to appear more masculine.

In some cases, a combination of ultrasonic liposuction and surgical excision may be required to achieve a firmer chest that the patient desires.

RESULTS AFTER GYNECOMASTIA TREATMENT

After the procedure, a compression garment will be applied to the breasts to help with swelling and support the new chest contour. In some cases, small drainage tubes are necessary, which are removed within several days.

Male breast reduction creates long-lasting results and may be permanent if a healthy lifestyle is maintained. Although scars may take several months to fade and flatten, they are usually hidden within the natural creases of the breast(s). Able to enjoy the outcome of their surgical procedure immediately, men may experience a renewed outlook on life and a newfound sense of confidence with their body.

gynecomastia infographic

Houston, TX Gynecomastia—FAQs

As gynecomastia is a unique medical issue, each procedure is determined by an individual’s needs. Dr. Livingston will provide an estimate for your Houston gynecomastia cost during your consultation.

During your gynecomastia procedure, you will be given either local or general anesthetics, depending upon your procedural plan, so you should not feel discomfort. Most patients find the recovery period tolerable and without much pain. However, please be sure to address your pain concerns with Dr. Livingston prior to your procedure.

Diet and exercise are excellent for your overall health but may not address the root issues of gynecomastia. While not a medically dangerous condition, gynecomastia requires surgery to improve the appearance of patients with moderate to severe cases. Gynecomastia is typically a problem that, once developed, will not go away without surgical correction.

Pseudogynecomastia is typically seen in overweight to obese males. Rather than an abundance of glandular breast tissue, the appearance of male breasts is caused by an excess of fat. However, some patients with pseudo-gynecomastia may require the removal of some breast tissue to create an ideal masculine chest contour.

Typically, gynecomastia results in minimal scarring as incisions are made in a fashion that they are hidden in natural breast creases or around the areola. However, scars may take months to fade or flatten.

Generally, Dr. Livingston recommends that patients be in good mental and physical health with no hormonal issues. Patients should be non-smokers, have realistic expectations, and understand the risks of the procedure.

Once fat cells have been removed, the body does not replace them. So, with your maintained weight and healthy lifestyle, you should experience long-lasting results, and enlarged breasts should not return and be a problem.

Patients will be allowed to go home following their procedure; however, you may need some assistance for the first day or so.