Male breast enlargement is not an uncommon experience. In fact, statistics indicate that men of all ages may experience some degree of gynecomastia. This condition is characterized by excess breast tissue, either fatty or glandular. However common the symptoms of gynecomastia may be, treatment options may vary based on a patient’s age.
In Adolescent Males
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has suggested that between 50 and 60 percent of teenage males experience the symptoms of gynecomastia. A prevailing theory about adolescent gynecomastia is that young men may develop puffy nipples or fuller breasts as a result of the increased levels of estrogen that coincide with puberty. When hormone changes are an originating factor in male breast enlargement, there is reason to believe that the contours of the chest will flatten naturally as hormones regulate in early adulthood.
In Adult Males
In the same study on adolescent males with gynecomastia, NIH researchers calculated that approximately 65 percent of adult men, aged 27 to 92 years, were also affected by male breast enlargement. Symptoms of gynecomastia in adult males are similar to those experienced by adolescent boys. However, the factors that influence the adult male chest may extend beyond hormone imbalance. Adult gynecomastia may relate to a thyroid disorder, drug use, and alcohol consumption.
Treating Gynecomastia
Any man who desires a flatter, more masculine chest can achieve this with male breast reduction surgery. The way in which we go about reducing breast size in men is determined by the extent of reduction that is needed and the condition of the skin. Male breast reduction is an outpatient procedure in which excess fatty tissue may be removed with liposuction. If necessary, the swollen glandular tissue may be surgically removed. Finally, men whose skin has also become dramatically saggy may tighten their contours with surgical skin tightening.
Male breast reduction can take from one to three hours and is conducted under general anesthesia. Comfort is maintained after surgery with prescription pain medication. Most men can go back to work and resume light activities after about seven days of rest at home.
Schedule A Consultation
The causes of gynecomastia may drive our method of treatment, but the results are the same across the board: a more toned, masculine chest. Learn more about male breast reduction. Call our Las Vegas area office at (702) 684-5502.