Blog

Although it can also refer to unusual breast growth for women, gynecomastia most often refers to breast growth in men, commonly known as “man boobs.” While the condition itself is not life-threatening, it can be symptomatic of larger problems, such as a decrease of testosterone in older men, a problem with metabolic systems, or a reaction to medication. Once these deeper causes are crossed out, you are left with the physical attributes and only a handful of ways to approach the problem.

What Are the Alternatives to Gynecomastia Surgery?

There are several non-invasive ways to approach gynecomastia before surgical options are explored. First, exercise can decrease fat on the body overall and build muscle under the structure of breast tissue to lift and tighten the chest area. Exercises that hone in on the chest, obviously, should be the focus if this method is chosen.

Additionally, changing your diet can help as well. There’s no proof that food itself affects the breast enlargement of men. But choosing low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, seafood, and poultry, can help reduce the excess fat on your body. Excess fat increases estrogen levels.

In your search to rid yourself of gynecomastia, you might come across several creams, pills, and “estrogen blockers” that promise an easy fix to your problem with simple application or ingestion. While “gimmick” or “scam” might not be the best words for these products, they will probably leave you feeling disappointed and still in need of better treatment. There is no “easy” fix.

Surgery Is the Quickest, Most Effective Option for Gynecomastia

If neither diet nor exercise create the desired result, surgery is the most effective option available. The surgery removes fat from the area of the chest, and often uses some liposuction in conjunction with the fat removal. Depending on the severity of the gynecomastia, the surgery may also involve repositioning or reducing the areola.

You’re a good candidate for gynecomastia surgery if you fit the following categories:

• Your breast size has stabilized.
  • The growth of your tissue has to have stabilized before surgery can be considered. Solving the problem temporarily will lead to greater frustration and further surgery if breast growth resumes.
• You are otherwise physically healthy.
  • The aforementioned physical illnesses have to be discounted before surgery is considered. There are also unrelated conditions that may make you an unideal candidate for invasive surgery.
• You have realistic goals for surgery.
  • As with many plastic surgeries, realistic expectations are a huge part of having a successful procedure. Not everything can be fixed under the scalpel. To avoid disappointment with your final results, be sure to have an honest conversation with your surgeon and ask to see photographs of other patients before and after the procedure.
• You are a nonsmoker and don’t use drugs.
  • It should go without saying, but drug use and smoking are both habits that contribute to poor health and lead to complications during surgery and with the recovery period. Be honest with your healthcare provider about unhealthy habits and avoid serious health problems as a result.
• Your condition can’t be solved with any other intervention.
  • We’ve already mentioned diet, chest-focused exercise and body-shaping techniques. There are also topical solutions and supplements that may help. If the condition persists, however, the soft tissue quickly turns to scars and becomes more difficult to eliminate without surgical intervention.

If You Think Gynecomastia Surgery Is Right for You, Contact Dr. Livingston

Luckily, Gynecomastia is not a life-threatening disease. Although your self-esteem, confidence, and sense of well-being can take a big hit from the condition, it is well-documented and easily treatable. Contact Livingston Plastic Surgery to explore your options and find out if gynecomastia surgery is truly right for you. If you request a consultation you will receive 25% off liposuction when combined with your gynecomastia surgery.