Most people assume the larger breasts are simply due to weight gain. But in about half the cases men with this condition have what is known as male breast enlargement, clinically known as gynecomastia. It’s a condition that can really impact a man’s self-esteem.
Dr. Yates can address the condition with a straightforward procedure known as male breast reduction.
What leads to gynecomastia?
For adults, the causes behind enlarged male breasts are not well understood. The condition in teenagers, however, is due to raging testosterone and estrogen levels. That’s why up to 70 percent of teens have enlarged breasts to some degree. But in teens, the condition usually corrects itself when puberty ends.
In adults, middle-aged and older men can also develop enlarged breasts due to hormone changes that come with aging. But more often gynecomastia comes from taking certain medications. These are the medications known to have a link to gynecomastia:
- Antibiotics
- Heartburn treatment drugs
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Steroids
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- AIDS treatment drugs
Heavy drinking and smoking marijuana can also lead to gynecomastia.
Breast reduction surgery
Men with gynecomastia have a firm, rubbery mass underneath the nipple area. The size of this mass is around 1.5 inches across, and it may be sensitive to the touch.
If surgery is required, small incisions are made in the armpits, under the breast, or around the areolae. Through those incisions, excess fat and glandular tissue are removed and excess skin is trimmed. Dr. Yates may also include liposuction to remove fat pockets. If excess fat is the key, the patient may only need liposuction. We have found Vaser liposuction a useful tool to extend the reach of liposuction in the treatment of gynecomastia.
If you want to quit worrying about what people think of your enlarged breasts, call Dr. Yates at (801) 525-8741 and come in for a consultation for male breast reduction. A Utah winter is a great time to have this simple surgery, as you’ll be ready to take your shirt off when the warm weather returns.