Gynecomastia is a condition in which men develop excessive breast tissue. This is not only a highly embarrassing problem; it’s also deceptively common. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 20 percent of men in the greater Boston area alone suffer from gynecomastia.
The exact causes of this condition are generally unknown; however, it’s thought that excessive breast issue development is caused by an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and testosterone. Gynecomastia may also be caused by certain medications, as well as anabolic steroids; however, non-steroid takers may also be concerned about developing excessive chest tissue. Signs and symptoms of gynecomastia include swollen breast tissue and breast tenderness.
For men who suffer from gynecomastia can get the excessive breast tissue removed at the plastic surgery practice of Sean Doherty, MD. With a practice based in Brookline, MA – just down Route 2 from Boston – Dr. Doherty can remove excessive breast tissue to help men achieve a firm, flat, and more masculine chest shape.
During the initial consultation stage, Dr. Doherty will need to rule out the medicinal causes of gynecomastia, including Propecia, some anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medicine, some ulcer medications, and even alcohol and marijuana. Other male chest issues may include fatty breast tissue, excessive chest fat, and pseudogynecomastia, which is an extremely rare form of breast cancer in men.
Dr. Doherty may recommend the following procedures for patients undergoing gynecomastia surgery:
- Liposuction of the chest can be an excellent option for removing fatty chest tissue. The fat can be sculpted with laser liposuction, which can help Dr. Doherty sculpt a more masculine chest shape.
- For male patients with hard breast tissue, laser liposuction or regular liposuction might require this tissue to be removed with an incision. This incision is made around the areola region, and can be done at the same time as liposuction.
For some patients with excessive fat, loose skin may be an after-effect of a gynecomastia procedure. Dr. Doherty can use skin tightening procedures to help tighten this skin, thus creating a more natural appearance. Some patients may require the excess skin tissue to be removed altogether and the chest lifted.
For more information about gynecomastia surgery with Dr. Doherty, please visit his practice in Brookline, MA or read more about it here: https://www.seandohertymd.com/gynecomastia-surgery/. You can also leave a message by filling out the form in the top right corner or you can call us directly at (617) 735.8735.