Gynecomastia in Dartmouth , MA

Gynecomastia is the medical term for male breast enlargement. It is a condition that can result in a female-like chest due to the abnormal growth of breast tissue. In many cases, gynecomastia is caused by an underlying hormonal condition. This condition can also be caused by certain drugs, steroids, major weight gain or loss, or genetics. Men with this issue generally feel anxious and worried, more so in circumstances where the chest area is shown, such as by the pool or in the gym. Dartmouth, MA plastic surgeon Dr. Caroline Plamondon offers cosmetic breast treatment for men who have gynecomastia. This cosmetic treatment has a very high success rate. It is one of the more popular cosmetic surgeries for men at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery.

Gynecomastia surgery is a procedure for men with visible excess breast tissue that cannot be corrected with diet and exercise. If you feel anxiety or are bothered by the look of your chest (but at a good weight), you may benefit from this surgery by Dr. Plamondon at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Male teens may also benefit from gynecomastia surgery; however, a future procedure may be necessary later during adulthood if new breast tissue continues to grow. During your first appointment with Dr. Plamondon, treatment options will be presented and may include the likelihood of having surgery to repair the condition.

Fat removal is often utilized during gynecomastia surgery. Performed under general anesthesia, liposuction removes excess fat from the chest wall. Next, any loose or wrinkled skin will be excised to create a tighter appearance, and then the nipple will be placed in a more natural position. In most cases, this technique requires a small incision near where the glandular tissue resides. Once the fat and loose skin have been addressed, Dr. Plamondon will tighten the remaining skin.

After your gynecomastia treatment, the chest will be wrapped with a medical garment to help reduce swelling. The results following gynecomastia treatment are immediately seen and most patients are extremely pleased with the physical change. The incisions made during this procedure take a few weeks to heal and scarring is usually barely visible. With your enhanced chest, you can get clearance from Dr. Plamondon to continue exercise and strength training, which will assist in complementing the final outcome.

How much does male breast reduction cost?
Gynecomastia is a medical issue that requires a skilled plastic surgeon. This is why Dr. Plamondon urges you to focus on getting quality results over costs. To help make your surgery easier to afford, Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery accepts many payment methods.  While male breast reduction is typically not covered by health insurance, it is worth talking to your provider to confirm.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is caused by a disruption in hormone balance. Most often, gynecomastia is linked to the long-term use of anabolic steroids or androgens. It can also be caused by using illegal drugs, like heroin and marijuana. Gynecomastia may also be caused by certain health conditions (for example, hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, and tumors), as well as some medications (for example, highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, anti-anxiety medications, and chemotherapy).

How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is excess breast tissue growth in the male chest, which may cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. Some men may have false gynecomastia (also known as pseudogynecomastia) so Dr. Plamondon encourages patients to try to lose weight with a healthy diet and exercise before seeking treatment for gynecomastia. If you still have enlarged breasts at a healthy weight, Dr. Plamondon can perform an examination and tests to diagnosis gynecomastia. This may include blood tests, a mammogram, or a biopsy to rule out other conditions, like breast cancer and mastitis (infection of the breast tissue).

Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
The most effective treatment for gynecomastia is male breast reduction surgery. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any medications to treat gynecomastia. While they are not approved for the treatment of gynecomastia, some breast cancer medications (for example, Tamoxifen or Raloxifene) may have limited effects. Strength training to build the pectoral muscles cannot reduce the amount of breast tissue and may make the breasts appear larger.

Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Glandular gynecomastia can cause puffy or pointy nipples. If this is a concern for you, please talk to Dr. Plamondon during your consultation. She will customize your treatment plan to use the best technique and incision pattern to correct your nipples. Large areolas can also be reduced during male breast reduction surgery. It's important to be open and honest with Dr. Plamondon about your needs and goals in your consultation so she can ensure you are happy with your results.

If you suffer from the effects of gynecomastia, we welcome you to contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Plamondon to learn more about our male breast reduction surgery at Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. After treatment for gynecomastia, you can stop covering up your chest at the gym and pool. We have helped many Dartmouth, MA men and have enjoyed watching them regain their self-confidence.