Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia, the condition of over-developed or enlarged breasts is common in men of any age. It may be the result of hormonal changes, heredity, disease, or the use of certain drugs. Gynecomastia can be more than a physical problem- it can cause emotional discomfort and impair an adolecent or adult male's self confidence. Some men may avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition.

If you have gynecomastia, breast reduction surgery may be right for you. In general, gynecomastia can be surgically treated by removing excess fat, glandular tissue and/or skin. The result is a better proportioned, more masculine contoured upper body and the freedom and self-confidence to lead an active life.

In severe cases of gynecomastia, the weight of excess breast tissue may cause the breasts to sag and stretch the areola. In these cases, the position and size of the areola can be sugically improved and excess skin may need to be reduced.

Correction of Gynecomastia

The factors considered to determine the plastic surgery techniques appropriate to correct your gynecomastia include

• Cause of Gynecomastia
• Degree of excess breast tissue and correction necessary
• Composition of the excess breast tissue: fat, glandular tissue and skin
• Age and overall health

In cases where gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques alone may be used. This requires insertion of a cannula, a thin hollow tube, through several small incisions. The cannula is moved back and forth in a controlled motion to loosen the excess fat, which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction. There are various liposuction techniques that may be used; the technique most appropriate in your case will be defined by Dr. Applebaum. Excision techniques are recommended where glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to correct gynecomastia. Excision is also necessary if the areola is to be reduced. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference.