Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia Surgery in Lubbock TX and West Texas
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Understanding Gynecomastia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
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What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition where male breast tissue becomes enlarged, often causing physical and emotional distress. This enlargement can occur at any age and is typically linked to hormonal imbalances, heredity, obesity, or the use of certain medications, including anabolic steroids or marijuana. While many men feel self-conscious about the appearance of their chest, seeking surgical treatment has become increasingly common.
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Who is Affected by Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can affect men of all ages, but it is most common during puberty, as hormonal fluctuations can cause temporary breast enlargement. While this often resolves over time, in some men, the breast tissue remains enlarged into adulthood. Studies show that the condition affects up to 90% of boys during puberty, 50-60% of adolescent males, and 70% of men aged 50-69.
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Symptoms of Gynecomastia
Typically, gynecomastia presents as a firm, mobile, disc-shaped lump beneath the nipple, which may or may not be tender. The condition can affect one or both breasts. In cases where the lump is hard, fixed, and located away from the nipple, or when there are additional symptoms like skin changes or nipple discharge, further evaluation for conditions like breast cancer may be necessary.
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Common Causes of Gynecomastia
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Hormonal Changes: Puberty and aging are key times when hormone levels fluctuate, contributing to the growth of breast tissue.
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Medications: Certain drugs, including steroids and some prescription medications, are known to cause gynecomastia.
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Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissue in the chest area.
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Substance Use: Drugs like marijuana can also contribute to the development of male breast tissue.​
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​​​Treatment: Surgery for Gynecomastia in Lubbock TX, Midland Texas, and West Texas, and New Mexico.
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For men looking to address gynecomastia, surgery is a proven solution. Treatment typically involves liposuction to remove excess fat, combined with the surgical removal of glandular tissue through an incision around the nipple-areolar complex. In more severe cases, excess skin may also need to be removed.
Preparing for Surgery
To ensure the best outcome, it's essential to follow your surgeon’s pre-operative guidelines. This may include stopping medications that increase the risk of bleeding, quitting smoking, and improving nutrition to support healing. While many gynecomastia surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, some cases can be done with local anesthesia and oral sedation. Post-surgical care typically involves the use of compression garments to reduce swelling and support the healing process.
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Recovery After Surgery
The recovery timeline varies depending on the extent of the surgery:
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Liposuction alone: Patients typically return to work and light activities within a week.
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More extensive surgery: For those needing both liposuction and glandular tissue removal, recovery takes longer, with most men able to return to routine activities within 2-4 weeks. Full recovery, including resuming weightlifting, may take up to 4 weeks.
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Potential Complications
While gynecomastia surgery is generally safe, as with any surgery, complications can arise. Possible risks include:
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Bruising and swelling
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Infection or bleeding
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Irregular contours
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Changes in nipple sensation
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Asymmetry or scarring
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Careful planning and execution, along with diligent post-operative care, can significantly minimize these risks.
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Cosmetic Outcomes
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, reshapes the chest to create a more masculine contour. In severe cases, the excess tissue may cause the breasts to sag and the areolas to stretch. Surgeons can reposition and resize the areolas as part of the surgery, improving both the aesthetic and functional appearance of the chest.
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Conclusion
Gynecomastia is a common condition that can affect a man’s self-confidence and body image. Whether caused by hormonal changes, obesity, or medications, the condition is treatable with surgery. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, men can make informed decisions about how to address gynecomastia and achieve a chest appearance they feel comfortable with. If you’re considering treatment, consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss your options and determine the best approach for your individual needs.
