Gynecomastia is the development of excess breast and fatty tissue in men, and it is far more common than most people realize. It can occur at different stages of life and stem from a variety of causes, including hormonal shifts, certain medications, and genetics. For many men, the condition does not resolve on its own and can greatly affect your self-confidence. Double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew H. Steele can help you recognize the signs that you may need gynecomastia treatment, and set up a procedure to get it done.
What Are the Physical Signs of Gynecomastia?
The most common sign that you may benefit from male chest reduction is visible breast enlargement. This can appear as puffiness around the nipple and areola, a rounded or feminine-looking chest contour, or a noticeable asymmetry between the two sides of the chest. In some cases, men will also feel a firm or rubbery mass of tissue beneath the nipple, which is characteristic of true glandular gynecomastia rather than simple fat accumulation.
Tenderness or discomfort in the breast area is another sign that may indicate gynecomastia. While it is not always painful, some men do experience a sensitivity in that area. Dr. Steele considers both the cosmetic appearance and underlying physical symptoms when evaluating your treatment options.
Surgical Options When Lifestyle Changes Are Not Enough
A typical misconception is that diet and exercise will resolve gynecomastia. In cases where breast enlargement is primarily the result of excess fat, weight loss may help. However, true gynecomastia involves actual glandular tissue, which does not respond to exercise or caloric restriction.
If you have worked consistently on your fitness without noticeable improvement, that is a meaningful indication that gynecomastia treatment may be right for you. You may be dealing with glandular tissue rather than fat alone, and that may require surgical intervention.
How Your Plastic Surgeon Treats Gynecomastia
Dr. Steele uses advanced liposuction techniques to remove fat and contour the chest. When glandular tissue is present beneath the nipple and areola, he will also use direct excision through small incisions to remove it. This technique typically requires only two small incisions on each side of the chest, which in most cases eliminates the need for a more visible scar around the areola. Dr. Steele performs most procedures under local anesthesia and mild sedation in our office surgical suite.
Appropriate candidates for male breast reduction are those who are close to their ideal weight, are non-smokers, and have addressed any identifying medical factors that have led to breast tissue development.
Call Us To Discuss the Signs That Gynecomastia Treatment May Be Right for You
If you are noticing changes to your chest that are affecting your self-confidence as a man, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Steele. We will help you identify the possible signs of gynecomastia and, if necessary, discuss surgical options that can bring you some relief.