We all want to feel good about how we look – no matter our age or gender. Gynecomastia is a male condition that can make it hard for a patient to feel confident about his body. Let’s go over exactly what gynecomastia is, what causes gynecomastia, how gynecomastia effects the body, and how Dr. Levens can help you get rid gynecomastia once and for all.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition that causes men to have enlarged, swollen breasts. Gynecomastia can happen at any age – from early childhood, to puberty, to transition into older age – and can cause both the breast glands and the breast tissue to increase beyond a normal range. This causes the appearance of a more feminine chest, rather than a flat or chiseled chest that our patients typically desire.
What causes Gynecomastia?
Unfortunately, there is no singular cause of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia typically occurs as a result of:
- Hormonal changes (typically during puberty or around middle-age)
- Chronic medical conditions, like hyperthyroidism
- Prescription medication
- Excessive alcohol consumption or drug use
- Obesity or excessive weight gain
- Use of performance enhancing drugs or anabolic steroids
How do I know if I have Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is most notably characterized by the appearance of small breasts in men. While gynecomastia is typically not a painful or bothersome condition, it can sometimes result in the breasts feeling tender. In addition to enlarged male breasts, patients often report having emotional distress caused by their appearance. If you believe you are suffering from the effects of gynecomastia, we strongly encourage you to go to your primary care physician to get checked out. They’ll be able to diagnose your condition and give you possible courses of action for treatment.
How can I get rid of my Gynecomastia?
If your gynecomastia is caused by a medical condition, your current prescription medications or hormonal changes, there is a chance that your gynecomastia can be treated with the help of your primary care physician. That being said, most cases of gynecomastia are typically treated with plastic surgery.
Dr. Levens offers gynecomastia surgery to men who suffer from enlarged male breasts. This surgery is an out-patient procedure in which Dr. Levens strategically and carefully removes enlarged breast glands and excess breast tissue to provide patients with a flatter, more masculine appearance. Liposuction is often used to treat the area by removing excess fatty deposits in the chest. Occasionally in more severe cases, skin excision is also invloved.
Do you still have questions about gynecomastia? Contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Levens. He’ll be happy to sit down with you, listen to your concerns and develop a fully customized treatment plan to help you reach your aesthetic goals. In light of recent events, we are also happy to offer virtual consultations that allow you to get your questions answered from the comfort and convenience of your very own home.
