Male Gynecomastia

If you’re a male and have unwanted breast tissue that causes you to feel self-conscious, you might have gynecomastia. Dr. Barnes is a cosmetic surgeon at his self-named practice with the expertise and experience to determine the root cause of your condition and perform treatment as needed. Call the friendly staff at Dr. Thomas Barnes, MD, in Newport Beach, California, or click the online scheduling tool today to book an evaluation.

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia occurs when males develop an enlargement of breast tissue. It's not uncommon and can affect individuals at different stages of life. 

This condition can lead to a swollen or puffy appearance of the breasts, resembling female breasts to some extent. While it doesn't usually pose a significant health risk, it can cause psychological distress and self-consciousness.

What causes gynecomastia?

Causes of gynecomastia are varied and can include:

• Puberty - hormonal fluctuations during adolescence
• Aging - decreased testosterone production with age
• Medications - certain drugs like steroids, anti-anxiety meds, and antidepressants
• Medical conditions affecting hormone production (e.g., thyroid, kidney, liver issues)
• Lifestyle factors - obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use
• Genetics - predisposition due to family history

A hormonal imbalance between estrogen (female hormone) and testosterone (male hormone) levels can also contribute to this condition. 

Who can develop gynecomastia?

Adolescents going through puberty, older men experiencing age-related hormonal changes, and individuals taking medications that influence hormones are more prone to developing gynecomastia. It's essential to consult Dr. Barnes for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance.

How is gynecomastia treated?

Treatment for gynecomastia depends on the cause and the extent of breast tissue enlargement. In cases where the condition is linked to medications, Dr. Barnes may recommend that you stop using those medications, which might lead to improvements over time. 

Hormonal imbalances can sometimes be corrected with medication or hormone therapy. If excess fatty tissue is the primary issue, lifestyle changes like exercise and a balanced diet might help. 

In cases where the excess breast tissue is persistent and causing emotional distress, Dr. Barnes might consider surgical intervention. 

Surgical treatment typically involves two main techniques: 

Liposuction

Liposuction removes excess fat through a small incision when the breast enlargement is primarily due to fatty tissue, which Dr. Barnes can perform for both males and females.

Mastectomy

A mastectomy involves the removal of a significant amount of glandular tissue to eliminate the excess tissue, providing a flatter and more masculine chest contour.

Though gynecomastia isn’t life-threatening, it can make you feel self-conscious and affect your self-esteem. 

If you have gynecomastia, book a consultation today with Dr. Barnes. The friendly staff can book an appointment for you by phone, or you can use the convenient online scheduling tool when you’re ready.