Month: January 2016

Does Drinking Beer Cause Man Boobs?

Lately, a troubling rumor has circulated the Internet claiming that drinking beer – especially “hoppy” styles like India Pale Ales – contributes to the development of excessive male breast tissue. Since Dr. Alexander Ereso treats men with enlarged breasts at Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center, he thought he would address this rumor. Here, the doctor sets the record straight on whether beer causes man boobs.

Where the Rumor Originated

Stephen Harrod Buhner, an herbalist and author, told the VICE News blog Munchies that a plant chemical in hops (found in beers) imitates the estrogen hormone. He claimed that drinking beer with lots of hops causes men to develop feminine attributes like large breasts and to suffer from sexual problems, including impotence. Fox News published an article piggybacking on Buhner’s claims, suggesting that men who drink strong India Pale Ales may notice their breasts overdeveloping.

Business Insider spoke with a University of Illinois professor, Richard van Breemen, who disputed Buhner’s claim, noting that there is a small amount of the estrogen-like compound, but it is so little that it is unlikely to disrupt a man’s hormones to the point of causing breast development.

With that information, feel free to continue to enjoy IPAs (responsibly, of course).

So, What Actually Causes Man Boobs?

Dr. Ereso explored the causes of excessive male breast tissue (a condition called gynecomastia) in a blog post in December. It is not always possible to diagnose the exact cause of gynecomastia. However, doctors believe it is usually due to hormonal imbalances, medical conditions and the use of steroids. Before recommending male breast reduction surgery, our doctors recommend candidates visit their primary care physicians for a full physical work-up to rule out any underlying medical causes.

If a candidate is deemed physically (and psychologically) healthy enough for surgery, our doctors can explore treatment options in more detail. Male breast reduction surgery involves removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the chest so it looks flatter and firmer. Enlarged or droopy areolas can also be corrected during surgery.

Male breast reduction can be a life-changing experience. Most men experience an enormous boost in self-confidence and are comfortable going shirtless at the beach, pool or gym.

Contact Our Plastic Surgeons

To learn more about gynecomastia and male breast reduction surgery, please contact Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center today and request a consultation. You can reach us by calling (650) 964-6600 today.

10 Things to Have on Hand for Facelift Recovery

If you are looking forward to or considering facelift surgery, Drs. Samuel Pearl and Alexander Ereso of Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center want your recovery to go as smoothly as possible. We recommend preparing your recovery space ahead of time with essentials so that after you get home from surgery, you can focus on resting and recovering.

Here are 10 things to have on-hand as you recover from a facelift.

  1. Zip-Up Shirts or Hoodies. Make sure you have plenty of clean clothes for your recovery; the last thing you will want to do as you recover is laundry. Wash some shirts or hoodies ahead of time. Pick options that are loose and zip or button in front so you don’t have to put them over your head.
  2. Nutritious Snacks. After surgery, you will want to slowly ease back into eating soft, easy-to-digest foods. Think of comfort foods like soup, plain crackers, toast and Jell-O. Avoid salty foods, which can increase post-operative swelling.
  3. Prescription Medications. Fill all of your prescriptions ahead of time so you don’t have to make any last-minute trips to the drug store. Keep your instructions for taking the medication in clear view and set a cell phone alarm to remind you to take the medications so you don’t miss a dose.
  4. Water and Gatorade. It is crucial to hydrate yourself after surgery. Drink non-carbonated, non-caffeinated beverages like water and Gatorade as you recover. Aim for at least eight ounces every two hours. Avoid alcoholic beverages until the doctor clears you.
  5. Flexible Straws. Bendy straws make it easy to sip your beverages. Many of our plastic surgery patients tell us these are a must-have during recovery.
  6. Colgate Wisps. Colgate Wisps are a great way to brush your teeth and freshen your breath without getting off the couch or out of bed.
  7. Light Entertainment. Queue up some entertainment for the days you will be spending in bed or on the couch. Pick light and fun movies and television shows, or an easy-to-read book (avoid dramas – you want to keep your mood positive!).
  8. Probiotics or Laxatives. Thanks to the anesthesia and pain meds, constipation is common after surgery. Milk of Magnesia is helpful to gently get things going.
  9. Big Pillows. You need to keep your head elevated after facelift, even while sleeping. Propping yourself up on big pillows makes it more comfortable to rest and sleep in an upright position.
  10. Your Doctor’s Phone Number. Post the number of our office – (650) 964-6600 –on the fridge or program it into your phone so it is easily accessible. Don’t hesitate to call us if you experience a troubling side effect or have a general question during your recovery.

Contact Our Office

For more facelift recovery tips, please contact Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center today by calling (650) 964-6600.