Gynecomastia in McLean, VA

The scientific term, gynecomastia, is a condition that causes male breast enlargement. Often, it can result in a feminine chest due to the increase of growing breast tissue. In many cases, gynecomastia is related to an unknown hormonal condition. Otherwise, it may also be caused by certain drugs, steroids, major weight gain or loss, or it can be hereditary. Men with this issue often feel self-conscious, especially in situations where the chest is exposed, such as at the beach or pool or at the gym. Fortunately, Dr. Alex Mesbahi performs male breast reduction surgery for men in McLean, VA who suffer from gynecomastia at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery.

For most men, gynecomastia — or extra breast tissue — could be bothersome and shameful. To improve this issue, gynecomastia treatment, also known as male breast reduction surgery, can yield life-changing changes with many amazing perks that include:

• Eliminating extra fat in the chest area
• Reshaping and chiseling the chest
• Adding definition to the pectoral muscles
• Providing a more toned, masculine appearance
• Boosting self-esteem and confidence
• Making exercise and physical activity more accessible
• Freeing you from feeling the need to stay clothed at the pool or beach
• Yielding improvements that are obvious and maintainable
• Fast recovery times

Male breast reduction surgery is reserved for men with visible excess breast tissue that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise. If you feel anxious or are bothered by the look of your chest and are at a healthy, stable weight, this surgery may be an ideal solution for you. Male teens may also benefit from gynecomastia surgery; however, a secondary procedure may be warranted later during adulthood if abnormal breast tissue continues to grow. During your initial appointment with Dr. Mesbahi, he can discuss the benefits and limitations of this procedure to help you make a well-informed decision on how to move forward toward achieving your cosmetic goals.

A form of liposuction is generally utilized during gynecomastia surgery. Performed under general anesthesia, liposuction reduces excess fat tissue from the chest wall. Next, any lax skin will be excised to create a tighter look, and then the areola and nipple will be surgically reshaped and placed into a proportionate position. Once the fat and loose skin have been removed, Dr. Mesbahi will tighten the remaining skin.

Following your gynecomastia surgery, the chest will be supported with a medical garment to help decrease swelling. In some cases, a small drain tube may be placed to assist with excess fluid. The outcomes following gynecomastia treatment are immediately noticeable, and most patients are extremely satisfied with their physical enhancement. The incisions made during this procedure take time to heal, and any scars left behind are often not noticeable with the naked eye. Once you heal and have received clearance from Dr. Mesbahi, you can start incorporating exercise and strength training to assist in complementing your new masculine figure.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is a disruption in hormone balance. Typically, gynecomastia is connected to the long-term use of anabolic steroids or androgens. It may also be caused by using illegal drugs, including heroin and marijuana. Gynecomastia might also be caused by certain medical conditions or prescription drugs.

How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which may cause swelling, tenderness, and pain. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia) so Dr. Mesbahi suggests patients try to lose weight with an exercise plan and a healthy diet before seeking treatment for gynecomastia. If you still have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Mesbahi can perform an examination and tests to diagnose gynecomastia. This might include blood tests, a mammogram, or a biopsy to look for other conditions, like an infection of the breast tissue (mastitis) or cancer.

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) hasn't approved any medications for the treatment of gynecomastia. Although they are not approved for gynecomastia, some breast cancer medications (Tamoxifen or Raloxifene) might give you minimal improvements. Upper body weight training to build the pectoral muscles cannot reduce the excess breast tissue and could make the breasts appear larger.

Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Puffy or pointy nipples may be caused by glandular gynecomastia. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Mesbahi during your consultation. He will customize your treatment plan to select the best technique and incision pattern to improve your nipples. Oversized areolas can also be reduced in surgery for gynecomastia. It is crucial to be open with Dr. Mesbahi about your needs and goals in your consultation so he can help you attain the best results possible.

If you suffer from the effects of male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), call Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA, Washington, D.C., or Beverly Hills, CA to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Mesbahi. Once you've had treatment for gynecomastia, you won't have to keep hiding your chest when you go to the gym and beach. We have assisted many men in Northern Virginia and have enjoyed helping them reclaim their self-esteem.