Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for “women-like breasts.” Though this oddly-named condition is rarely talked about, it’s actually quite common. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It may affect only one breast or both.
For men who feel self-conscious about their appearance, breast-reduction surgery can help. The male breast reduction procedure removes fat and or glandular tissue from the breasts, and in extreme cases removes excess skin, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer, and better contoured. Some patients may also experience physical relief; the excessive breast tissue can cause skin chafing, irritation and even infection. View before and after results from actual San Jose Bay Area patients who have received gynecomastia treatment at Pearl-Ereso Plastic Surgery Center.
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What Causes Gynecomastia?
It is not entirely known what causes gynecomastia. Doctors believe the condition may be caused by any of the following:
- Hormonal imbalance resulting in excess female hormones
- Certain medical conditions such as liver failure and malnutrition
- Use of anabolic steroids
- Medications used to treat certain medical conditions
- Drug or alcohol use
Are You A Good Male Breast Reduction Candidate?
Surgery to correct gynecomastia can be performed on healthy, emotionally stable men of any age. The best candidates for surgery have firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body’s new contours.
Surgery may be discouraged for obese men or for overweight men who have not first attempted to correct the problem with exercise or weight loss. Also, individuals who drink alcoholic beverages in excess or smoke marijuana are usually not considered good candidates for surgery. These drugs, along with anabolic steroids, may cause gynecomastia. Therefore, patients are first directed to stop the use of these drugs to see if the breast fullness will diminish before surgery is considered an option.
If you feel you are a good candidate for the surgical treatment of gynecomastia, contact Dr. Alexander Ereso at his private cosmetic plastic surgery practice in Mountain View.
Your Personal Gynecomastia Consultation
A personal consultation is the first step. Dr. Ereso will assess your physical and emotional health and discuss your specific cosmetic goals for surgery.
You should arrive at the consultation prepared to provide complete information about:
- Previous surgeries
- Past and present medical conditions
- Treatments you have received
- Medications that you are taking, including nutritional supplements and herbal remedies
Male Breast Reduction Results
Gynecomastia surgery can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily change your looks to match your ideal. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them frankly with Dr. Ereso.
The results of the procedure are significant and permanent. If your expectations are realistic, chances are good that you’ll be very satisfied with your new look.
Patient Results
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After 
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After 
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After “The surgery is overall not cheap, but gave me my life and self esteem back three fold. And at that point, no price is too high for a greater quality of life. The results that came post surgery were worth every penny. Dr Ereso is very down to earth, and walks you through every step of the way. I am very satisfied with how my chest looks now and cannot recommended this process enough to any man dealing with gyno.”
Male Breast Reduction FAQs
Can Exercise Reduce Enlarged Male Breasts?
It depends on the tissue composition of the breasts. Breasts that are composed mostly of fatty tissue may respond to diet or exercise efforts. However, lifestyle choices have no effect on glandular tissue.
What Should I Look For In A Plastic Surgeon To Treat My Gynecomastia?
Experience is critical when selecting a gynecomastia surgeon. There is simply no substitute for the knowledge one gains when performing a high volume of procedures regularly.
Board certification is another non-negotiable criterion. Certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures a surgeon has the training necessary to safely and successfully treat patients, and that he or she adheres to the highest standards of professional ethics.
If you are seeking care for gynecomastia, a surgeon’s compassion and sensitivity are valuable attributes. Having enlarged breasts as a man can be embarrassing, and you should be able to talk candidly with your surgeon about your condition. Your surgeon should be a good listener and put you entirely at ease when discussing your case.
Is Male Breast Reduction Painful?
Surgery itself is performed with anesthesia so you will not feel anything. Afterward, your chest may feel swollen, tight, tender or even numb. Most of our patients say the aftereffects are not as serious as they expected, and that the sensations are akin to the feeling one gets after completing a tough chest workout.
How Long Will It Take To See Results After Male Breast Reduction?
After breast reduction, you should notice your chest has a firmer and flatter appearance almost immediately. As swelling and bruising subside, the contours of your chest will continually improve and stabilize. It can take several months for residual swelling to completely resolve.
Will I Have Noticeable Scarring From My Surgery?
Dr. Ereso takes great care to create the incisions in discreet locations. As the incisions heal and the scars flatten and fade, they should blend in with the natural transitions and creases in the skin. Once totally healed, the scars should be virtually imperceptible.
How Much Does Male Breast Reduction Cost?
The cost of male breast reduction is based on the circumstances of the individual case. The surgical approach taken heavily factors into the price of your treatment.
When you receive a price quote for gynecomastia, check to make sure the total cost includes the surgeon’s fee, facility fee, anesthesia fee and all pre-op and post-op appointments. Inquire about any additional costs, such as the cost of post-op compression garments and prescription medications.
Qualifying candidates may choose to financing treatment with CareCredit. For more information, please contact our practice today.
Can My Breasts Enlarge Again After Surgery?
It depends on the causes of your gynecomastia. If your hormone levels fluctuate and you use steroid medications or street drugs, you may see a recurrence of your “man boobs.” If you are taking a medication known to cause enlarge male breasts, or a medical condition causing man boobs returns, you may see your breasts get big again. Talk to Dr. Ereso about steps you can take to minimize the chances of recurrence.
