Gynecomastia is a condition where men develop breasts. It is fairly common, and while it goes away on its own in many men, others are not so fortunate. Gynecomastia can cause intense embarrassment and even depression in men who suffer from it, and may interfere with intimate relationships.

If your gynecomastia is causing problems with your self-esteem and self-confidence, you may benefit from gynecomastia surgery. This surgery can take the form of either simple liposuction or full breast reduction surgery that removes the breast glands and excises excess skin. The end result of gynecomastia surgery is a flatter chest with masculine contour.

Call Dr. Gehaan D’Souza today at 760-691-5165 to schedule your free consultation.

Causes of Gynecomastia

The main reason men develop breasts is due to hormonal imbalance. All men have some estrogen, but when estrogen levels in males rise above normal, it can result in breast tissue. There is also another type of gynecomastia called “pseudo-gynecomastia” where the breasts are due solely to fat, not breast tissue. This type of gynecomastia most often occurs in overweight men.

Some of the typical causes of gynecomastia can include:

• Medications which alter hormone levels, such as certain antidepressants
• Hormone changes during puberty
• Hormone changes due to aging
• Anabolic steroid use
• Medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism

Gynecomastia Treatment Options

If your gynecomastia is simply due to being overweight, the best treatment may be to lose weight. If you have trouble getting rid of the fat on your chest even after losing weight, liposuction may be an option.

When gynecomastia is due to underlying hormonal imbalance, you should talk with your primary physician to try to find a solution. There may be medications or treatments you can try to get your hormone levels back to normal.

Sometimes, male breasts don’t go away even with medical treatment. In other cases, doctors may recommend a “wait and see” approach to see if the breast tissue goes away on its own. If you are bothered by your gynecomastia and want a fast, visible solution, surgery is probably a good option for you.

Gynecomastia surgery is minimally invasive, using small incisions around the nipple in order to leave the least amount of scarring. Breast tissue and fat are removed through these incisions. In some cases, you may need more extensive surgery, which may require longer incisions. However, Dr. D’Souza will always use the most inconspicuous locations possible for incisions, and most patients feel that the surgery is well worth it even with potential scarring.

Recovery after gynecomastia surgery is relatively quick and painless. You may experience some soreness and swelling, but you’ll typically be able to return to work within just a few days.

Gynecomastia surgery can immeasurably improve the lives of men who suffer from this condition. After your surgery, you can confidently wear tighter-fitting shirts, swim in the pool or at the beach, and you don’t need to be as self-conscious letting a romantic partner see you undressed.

Schedule Your Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation

Take the first step towards a flatter, more masculine chest by calling Dr. D’Souza today at 760-691-5165 to schedule your complimentary consultation. We serve patients in Carlsbad, Vista, Oceanside, and other areas of northern San Diego.