Gynecomastia

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GYNECOMASTIA

When a man has enlarged male breasts, they’re experiencing a condition called gynecomastia. This aesthetic problem can cause self-esteem and body-image issues. Patients need to learn what gynecomastia is and how it can be prevented, as well as what treatment options are available to address the problem. More details are available at Francesco Gargano, MD, when patients reach out for a consultation.

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FRANCESCO GARGANO MD

WHAT CAUSES GYNECOMASTIA?

Gynecomastia is a condition that can affect male patients of all ages. The tissues of the male chest may become enlarged due to a multitude of reasons, including lifestyle choices, hormone fluctuations, and genetics.

The most common cause of gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance between androgen and estrogen. If male patients have too little testosterone or too much estrogen, this can cause their breasts to grow larger than they should.

There are also certain health conditions that can lead to this imbalance. These include adrenal tumors, liver disease, thyroid disease, and alcoholism. Patients who are obese can also develop enlarged breasts; the breasts may retain their size even after losing weight.

In addition to this, certain medications can also result in breast enlargement. Anabolic steroids are common examples, along with prescription drugs to combat anxiety or depression. Recreational drugs can also lead to gynecomastia.

GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

The exact details of gynecomastia surgery are determined based on the composition of a patient’s male breasts. Excess fat, excess glandular breast tissue, and excess skin are all addressed differently.

Male breast reduction surgery always begins with administration of anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Once it has taken effect, incisions will be made.

For removal of excess fat, the incisions are very small, allowing for insertion of a cannula. A cannula is a thin tube with a sharp end. It is used to perform liposuction, loosening fatty tissue and removing it with suction.

For removal of excess glandular tissue and excess sagging skin, there are several incision options. Periareolar, intra-areolar, or inframammary incisions may be used. Next, the glandular tissue and excess skin will be removed using scalpel excision.

The areolae may also need to be resized and/or repositioned during male breast reduction.

YOUR CONSULTATION

The first step to treating gynecomastia is to diagnose it. A physical examination will be performed, and a breast ultrasound or a mammogram may be necessary to ensure that the cause is not malignant in nature. The patient’s medical history will also be discussed.

Once the cause of the patient’s male breasts has been determined, treatment will be recommended. If gynecomastia is occurring due to medication, patients will be advised to stop or switch to a different medication. If an underlying health condition is causing the problem, treatment of the condition will typically address gynecomastia.

For more severe cases, we perform gynecomastia surgery, also called male breast reduction. This is the most effective solution for gynecomastia. It involves removal of excess tissue to recontour the chest and make it look more masculine.

RECOVERY AFTER GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

Male breast reduction patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort during recovery. A post-surgical elastic garment must be worn to control swelling.

It may be some time before patients can return to regular activities. Physically taxing activities like heavy exercise and sports must be avoided for several weeks. Patients will also need to take note of how they can prevent the return of their gynecomastia, which will depend on its original cause.

HOW MUCH DOES SURGERY FOR GYNECOMASTIA COST?

The cost of gynecomastia surgery will depend on the exact techniques utilized to reduce a patient’s male breasts. Total surgical time can also affect the overall price, as can anesthesia fees and other factors.

SET UP A CONSULTATION

Patients can reach out to Francesco Gargano, MD, today to schedule their consultation regarding treatment of gynecomastia in New York City.

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Meet Dr. Gargano

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, New York

Dr. Francesco Gargano has extensively trained around the world and is committed to healing through individualized care. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Dr. Gargano received his medical degree from the Sapienza University of Rome in Italy, graduating magna cum laude. He continued his education at Sapienza University where he earned his PhD in Plastic Surgery, Human Anatomy and Dermatology, and completed his first residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.