Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Gynecomastia is an increase in the amount of breast tissue in males. In some cases this may be weight related. Otherwise, an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone is typically the cause. Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly. Boys going through puberty and older men may develop gynecomastia due to natural changes in hormone levels. There may be other causes too, and this is typically discussed during the time of consultation. Most often, gynecomastia isn’t a malignant medical problem but it can be problematic for many reasons. Patients with gynecomastia may have notable pain in their breasts or they may feel self conscious. While gynecomastia goes away on its own in many cases, recalcitrant cases may require surgery. Liposuction to remove the excess tissue works very well and leaves a “scarless” result. More focal tissue masses behind the areola (retroareolar buttons) do very well with a limited incision and extraction of the tissue. Very large collections of breast tissue respond well to subcutaneous mastectomy although this is rarely necessary.

Schedule your appointment for a gynecomastia with Dr. Patrick Cole today.