Changes in the chest can be frustrating, especially when exercise and weight loss don’t seem to make the difference you’re hoping for. For some men, enlarged breast tissue is caused by gynecomastia, a condition that can affect one or both sides of the chest.
Gynecomastia can develop at different stages of life and may be related to hormonal changes, genetics, certain medications, health conditions, or changes in weight. When enlarged breast tissue doesn’t improve on its own, male breast reduction in Washington, DC may be an option.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an enlargement of breast tissue in men. It can develop during puberty, with age, or as a result of hormonal changes, certain medications, health conditions, or other factors.
The amount and type of tissue can vary from person to person. Some men have excess glandular tissue, while others may have more fatty tissue or a combination of both.
Can Exercise Get Rid of Gynecomastia?
Exercise and weight loss can help reduce excess body fat, but they don’t always eliminate enlarged breast tissue. This is especially true when the enlargement is caused by glandular tissue rather than fat.
If you’ve maintained a healthy weight and still have excess tissue around the chest, a consultation with a plastic surgeon can help determine what may be contributing to the change and whether surgery could help.
How Does Male Breast Reduction Work?
Male breast reduction typically involves removing excess tissue to create a flatter, more defined chest. Depending on the amount and type of tissue present, treatment may involve liposuction, surgical removal of glandular tissue, or a combination of both.
In more significant cases, additional skin removal may be needed to achieve the desired contour. Your surgeon will evaluate your chest and discuss the approach that’s most appropriate for your anatomy and goals.
What Is Recovery Like?
Male breast reduction is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. After surgery, you’ll likely wear a compression garment or vest to support the area while it heals.
Most patients can return to work or light activity in about a week, although strenuous exercise and other activities may need to be limited for several weeks. Swelling and bruising gradually improve as you heal, and it can take several months for the final results to fully settle.
Your surgeon will provide specific recovery instructions based on your procedure and individual needs.
Is Male Breast Reduction Right for You?
Male breast reduction may be an option if you’re bothered by enlarged breast tissue that hasn’t improved with changes in weight or exercise. Good candidates should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve.
A consultation is the best way to determine whether surgery is appropriate and what treatment approach may be recommended.
Male Breast Reduction in Washington, DC
At Peel Haus, our plastic surgery team provides personalized care for men who want to address enlarged breast tissue and improve the contour of their chest. Treatment is tailored to each patient’s anatomy, goals, and the underlying cause of the enlargement.
If you’re considering male breast reduction in Washington, DC, schedule a complimentary consultation with us to learn more about gynecomastia surgery and whether it may be right for you.