Gynecomastia is the presence of excess breast tissue in males. The condition can lead to embarrassment, self-consciousness, and even discomfort and pain. Many men have difficulty finding clothes they feel comfortable in, and it can be a challenge for romantic relationships as well, which is why many start researching how to get rid of gynecomastia to restore their confidence and feel better in their bodies.
Fortunately, men have several options for addressing excess gynecomastia and improving their physique, one of which is male breast reduction surgery. If you have found that excess fat and glandular breast tissue in your chest is frustrating and bothering you, read on to learn more about your treatment options.
3 Treatment Options for Male Breast Reduction
#1 – Address your health and lifestyle.
Gynecomastia surgery is one option for getting rid of man boobs (excess breast tissue). However, before going directly to surgery, it’s important to consider your current health choices. Certain lifestyle factors could be contributing to excess fat and tissue in your chest.
As an example, in some cases, male breast enlargement can be naturally cured through weight loss. Consuming a proper diet and getting adequate exercise can help overweight individuals lose weight, and this can, in turn, reduce excess breast tissue and fat cells in the breasts. Often, men who reduce body fat overall will see the best results as “spot treating” the chest is not typically possible.
Likewise, reducing one’s alcohol intake and use of drugs such as steroids can also positively influence gynecomastia, ultimately creating a more masculine chest.
#2 – Talk to your doctor about underlying medical conditions.
Losing weight and making positive lifestyle changes such as exercising more and reducing alcohol intake can go a long way to reduce extra breast tissue in many patients. However, you should also consider your medical history.
Certain medications, chronic illnesses, a hormonal imbalance, or another underlying medical condition may be at the root of your gynecomastia. In this way, your gynecomastia treatment may not have to be surgical.
Talk to your doctor. Often, they will recommend blood tests to look for changes in sex hormones, such as raised estrogen levels or lowered testosterone levels. Both of these hormonal changes are known to cause the growth of unwanted tissue in the breasts.
#3 – Consider gynecomastia surgery.
Generally speaking, gynecomastia surgery may be required for severe cases of gynecomastia and those that cannot be treated with a simple diet plan or hormone adjustments. While plastic surgery is not appealing to some men who would prefer to get rid of their excess breast tissue and fat with a non surgical technique, sometimes this is the only option.
Fortunately, most male breast reduction surgery cases require only small incisions. This means smaller scars. Furthermore, the success rate is high for this surgery, and gynecomastia recovery only lasts a few weeks maximum.
Understanding Gynecomastia Causes and When to Seek Treatment
Gynecomastia can develop for several reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is essential before you treat gynecomastia. Some men experience changes in glandular tissue, especially during hormone changes, while others may notice enlarged male breast tissue linked to health conditions or the use of anabolic steroids. In rare cases, changes in breast size may also raise concerns about breast cancer or male breast cancer, especially when symptoms affect one or both breasts.
A thorough evaluation with a healthcare provider is key to determining the right gynecomastia treatment. Your healthcare provider can assess glandular tissue, discuss how anabolic steroids or other factors may contribute, and guide you through appropriate treatment options that support your overall physical health. Most men find that the correct gynecomastia treatment plan helps restore a more masculine chest, and continued follow-up with a trusted healthcare provider ensures long-term improvement.
What Does Gynecomastia Surgery Entail?
Gynecomastia surgery first involves assessing the breast tissue with what is called the gynecomastia pinch test. This is a quick test to check for indications of gynecomastia.
You or your plastic surgeon will gently palpate the glandular tissue of each breast to feel for a hard lump, located directly beneath the nipple. If one is found, this usually denotes the need for surgery as this type of fibrous tissue won’t go away with diet and exercise alone.
To perform the surgery, your surgeon will use general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. A small incision will typically be placed around the edge of the areola. Any tough, fibrous glandular tissue will be removed, and excess fat can be suctioned out via a liposuction cannula. The incisions will then be closed.
How to Get Rid of Gynecomastia During Puberty
In some cases, excess male breast tissue is the result of a hormonal shift during puberty. In this case, the male breast development is normal, and gynecomastia surgery is not necessary. The excess breast tissue should resolve on its own as the individual shifts out of puberty, and hormones regulate.
However, if gynecomastia is still causing mental and emotional problems for a young man going through puberty, lifestyle changes may help expedite the reduction of fat tissue and strengthen chest muscles for a more masculine appearance.
Young men in this situation should consider adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and losing excess fat if necessary. Alcohol and substances should be avoided. This can often help remove excess breast tissue naturally.
FAQs: Male Breast Reduction
What causes enlarged breasts in males?
Enlarged male breasts may be caused by a hormonal imbalance, an underlying medical issue, using certain medications or drugs (such as steroids), or being overweight. Some men will go through a period of male breast enlargement during significant hormonal shifts, such as during puberty.
What does stage 1 gyno look like?
Grade I gynecomastia is challenging to detect due to the absence of distinct signs. There’s no swelling around the breasts, but discoloration appears around the nipples, which start resembling a conical shape.
What worsens gynecomastia?
Soy contains phytoestrogens, plant compounds that closely resemble human estrogen. If prone to breast tissue enlargement, avoid soy products like tofu, soybeans, and soy milk, as excess estrogen can contribute to gynecomastia.
Can you get rid of man boobs without surgery?
Yes, in some cases, there is a way to get rid of man boobs without gynecomastia surgery. Non surgical approaches tend to include weight loss plans, cessation of drug use, or assessing hormone levels and looking for an underlying medical issue that can be treated (such as high estrogen).
Can gynecomastia resolve with exercise?
For many men, losing weight and exercising more (cardiovascular workouts, resistance training, etc.) can help resolve excess tissue in the breasts naturally — without the need for male breast reduction surgery. However, in some cases, an underlying condition must be treated to resolve gynecomastia (hormone therapy, for example). Otherwise, gynecomastia surgery may be the answer.
Gynecomastia vs Fat: How Can You Tell the Difference?
Understanding gynecomastia vs fat is important because each condition develops differently. Gynecomastia involves firm glandular breast tissue caused by hormonal shifts, while chest fullness from fat is softer and usually linked to overall weight gain. Gynecomastia often does not improve with exercise alone, but fat-related fullness can respond to lifestyle changes. A physical exam with a qualified provider is the best way to determine whether you’re dealing with gynecomastia vs fat.
How Much Does Gynecomastia Surgery Cost?
Gynecomastia cost varies because each patient’s chest concerns and goals are unique. Factors such as the amount of glandular tissue, the need for liposuction, anesthesia, and the surgeon’s expertise all influence the final gynecomastia cost. The most accurate estimate comes from an in-person consultation, where your provider can evaluate your condition and recommend the right treatment plan.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Smita
Whether you already know that you’d like to pursue male breast reduction surgery because of enlarged male breasts, or you simply have more questions about the procedure, scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is a good idea.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham treats men suffering from gynecomastia in the New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Ramanadham.