Deciding on Gynecomastia Correction Surgery
Talking about enlarged male breasts, medically known as gynecomastia, used to be perceived as taboo. Fortunately, an increasing number of men are now willing to discuss the condition. At our practice, we have helped men young and old deal with gynecomastia through male breast reduction surgery. These are some important things that patients should know if they are trying to decide whether gynecomastia surgery is right for them.
More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue
Dr. Kayastha’s approach to each male breast reduction procedure is centered on the fact that there’s more to gynecomastia than cosmetic concerns. The psychological toll of having abnormally enlarged male breasts is just as concerning. In fact, a recent study found that even mild cases of gynecomastia significantly lowered the subjects’ self-esteem and led to lower scores in standard quality-of-life assessments.
Exercise Will Not Help
One of the main reasons that men with gynecomastia are ridiculed is because of the myth that enlarged male breasts are the result of weight gain. This is mostly untrue. The main cause of gynecomastia is the abnormal growth of glandular breast tissue. Although there might be some fatty tissue in the breast area that is treatable with diet and exercise, true gynecomastia requires surgery to eliminate the glandular tissue.
Steroids and Alcohol Are Risk Factors
Athletic men in overall good shape are just as likely to develop gynecomastia as other men. In fact, bodybuilders who take anabolic steroids may be more at risk since one of the main types of gynecomastia is steroid-induced gynecomastia. Steroid use can cause a hormonal imbalance that increases the amount of estrogen in the body. Since estrogen is the “female hormone,” breast tissue can develop. Overconsumption of alcohol has also been linked to an increased risk of gynecomastia.
Ideal Candidates for Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Apart from the appearance of excess glandular tissue and/or localized fat in your breasts, the ideal candidate for gynecomastia correction surgery should be near or within their ideal body weight, have good skin elasticity (that will help reshape the body’s new contours post-surgery), and be in excellent physical health. You should also have realistic expectations of the procedure. When it comes to plastic surgery, perfection is not the end goal but rather an improvement or enhancement in appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’d like to find out whether or not you’re a candidate for plastic surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayasatha, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Albany, NY, During this consultation, a thorough physical assessment will be done, as well as a discussion of your surgical options, possible risks, and how to prepare for the procedure.