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Are Results From Gynecomastia Correction Surgery Permanent?
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Gynecomastia is a cosmetic condition that can cause female-appearing breasts in men — or at least less masculine-shaped ones. It is extremely common, with nearly 65 percent of males suffering from this condition at some point in time in their lives. Furthermore, it can cause males of all ages to feel both self-conscious and embarrassed.
Surgical correction of gynecomastia (male breast reduction surgery) helps men achieve a more masculine chest appearance, which can ultimately improve confidence and happiness.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the presence of excess breast tissue and/or fat in the chest. This condition is often caused by a hormonal imbalance between testosterone and estrogen. However, there are many other causes of it, such as the usage of anabolic steroids, various medications, obesity and significant marijuana consumption.
This condition can occur at any age but is commonly seen in pubescent boys whose bodies are going through substantial physical changes. Though the hormones usually rebalance after puberty, causing the gynecomastia to go away naturally, sometimes the gynecomastia doesn’t fully resolve and, instead, persists.
When true gynecomastia is present, a surgical procedure is the only way to address this issue.
How Is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?
The technique used for male breast reduction surgery depends on the cause of the enlarged male breast (enlarged breast tissue, excess fat or a combination) and the degree of the enlargement. Treatment options include:
- Direct excision of breast tissue
- Liposuction of excess fat
- Combination of direct excision and liposuction
- Excision of excess skin, breast tissue and fat
If your gynecomastia is the result of excess fat, liposuction can be used to remove fat in the breasts and contour them appropriately. This generally involves two small incisions around ¼” each through which the fat is suctioned out.
When gynecomastia is caused by glandular tissue, surgical excision of the breast tissue is warranted. This involves an incision placed at the lower half of the areola, through which Dr. Turkeltaub will surgically remove the tissue.
In many men, the cause of breast enlargement is due to enlarged glandular tissue and excess fat. For these situations, both techniques are necessary in order to achieve optimal results.
Particularly in situations involving obesity or massive weight loss, there may be excess and lax skin associated with gynecomastia. In such cases, the treatment would also involve a customized skin tightening procedure.
Can Gynecomastia Come Back After Surgery?
While gynecomastia correction surgery is a permanent solution for most men who struggle with enlarged male breasts, there is a chance that gynecomastia can return sometime later on.
Though the return of gynecomastia is extremely rare, there are several reasons why this can occur, including sustained steroid and drug use (especially marijuana) and weight gain. Additionally, medical issues, such as adrenal or pituitary tumors and liver disease, have been known to cause male breast growth.
If gynecomastia returns, surgery can be performed again. However, if this issue is caused by an underlying medical condition, it is important to address this medical concern first. When caused by anabolic steroid usage, medication or marijuana, consideration should be given to the cessation of their usage.
Gynecomastia Surgery in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ
If you have questions about gynecomastia correction surgery, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Turkeltaub today. Call us at (480) 451-3000 or contact us by email.
We look forward to helping you look and feel your best!