Gynecomastia in Dothan, AL

The term gynecomastia refers to male breast enlargement. This condition is one that can result in a feminine-appearing chest due to the abnormal growth of breast tissue. Many times, gynecomastia is related to an unknown hormonal condition. It may also be caused by certain medications, steroids, major weight gain or loss, or it can be hereditary. Men with this condition generally feel self-conscious, more so in situations where the chest area is visible, such as at the beach or pool or at the gym. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Justin Martin performs cosmetic breast surgery for men who suffer from gynecomastia. This cosmetic treatment has a high success rate and is one of the more common cosmetic surgeries for men at Martin Plastic Surgery in Dothan, AL.

Gynecomastia surgery is reserved for men with visible excess breast tissue that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise. If you feel bothered by the look of your chest (but are at a good weight), you could possibly benefit from this surgery by Dr. Martin at Martin Plastic Surgery. Male teens may also attain positive results from gynecomastia treatment; however, a future procedure may be necessary later as an adult if new breast tissue continues to grow. In your initial consultation with Dr. Martin, treatment considerations will be presented, including the likelihood of having surgery to correct the condition.

Fat removal is generally utilized during gynecomastia surgery. Performed under general anesthesia, liposuction is used in some cases to remove excess fat from the chest region. In addition, any loose or wrinkled skin can be excised to produce a more masculine look, and then the nipple will be surgically reshaped and placed into a more correct position. For most men, this technique requires an incision near where the glandular tissue resides. After the pockets of fat and excess skin have been addressed, Dr. Martin will tighten the remaining skin.  One or both of these techniques could be used, and this depends on the individual patient.

For complex cases where a more invasive technique was used, a small tube for draining may be inserted to help with fluid. The outcomes following gynecomastia treatment are almost immediately seen and most men are extremely pleased with the cosmetic enhancement. Any incisions made during this procedure take a few weeks to heal and any scars left behind are barely seen. You will need to hold off on strenuous exercise and weight training until Dr. Martin has cleared you to do so. The results after gynecomastia treatment will create a new masculine-appearing chest.

How much does male breast reduction cost?
Excessive male breast tissue (gynecomastia) is a medical problem that is best handled by an experienced surgeon. For this reason, Dr. Martin suggests you focus on how to get your best results rather than costs. To help make male breast reduction surgery fit your budget, Martin Plastic Surgery accepts several forms of payment and we also offer several financing options. While surgery for gynecomastia is commonly not covered by health insurance, in some cases a portion of the surgery may be eligible for insurance coverage.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is an imbalance in hormones. Most often, gynecomastia is connected to the long-term use of androgens and anabolic steroids. It may also be the result of using illegal drugs, including marijuana or heroin. Gynecomastia might also be triggered by some medical conditions (for example, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and tumors) as well as some medications (for example, highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, chemotherapy, and anti-anxiety medications).

How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which can cause swelling, pain, and tenderness. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia), so Dr. Martin suggests patients to try to lose weight by following an exercise plan and healthy diet before considering surgery. If you still have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Martin will perform a physical exam and order diagnostic tests as needed. 

Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
Male breast reduction surgery is the most effective treatment for gynecomastia. Currently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) hasn't approved any medications for the treatment of gynecomastia. Although they aren't approved for the treatment of gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (for example, Raloxifene or Tamoxifen) might give you minimal improvements. Upper body weight training to increase the pectoral muscles will not reduce the excess breast tissue and could even make the breasts look bigger.

Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Glandular gynecomastia can cause puffy or pointy nipples. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Martin at your consultation. He will personalize your surgical plan to select the best incision pattern and technique to improve your nipples. Oversized areolas may also be corrected in surgery for gynecomastia. It is crucial to be open and honest with Dr. Martin about all your concerns and desires during your initial consultation, so he can make sure you are happy with your results.

If you are frustrated with the side effects of male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), we invite you to contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin to learn about the male breast reduction procedures available at at Martin Plastic Surgery. Once you have had treatment for gynecomastia, you won't have to keep hiding your chest when you go to the gym and beach. We have helped many Dothan, AL men to regain their self-confidence.