In adults, gynecomastia is commonly triggered by hormone imbalances, particularly between testosterone and estrogen. Whether it’s a shortage of testosterone, an excess of estrogen, or a combination of both, gynecomastia can be an issue for many adults.
If you are suffering from the condition, feel free to reach out to the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists to schedule your free in-person consultation today.
What is Adult Gynecomastia?
Adult gynecomastia is characterized by the abnormal enlargement of breast tissue in males. While it can occur at any age, it often becomes more noticeable during adulthood.
Hormonal imbalances, particularly between testosterone and estrogen, are a primary cause. These two hormones regulate breast tissue growth in both men and women. When there’s an imbalance between them, it can lead to the development of excess glandular tissue in the breasts.
Gynecomastia vs. Pseudogynecomastia
It’s important to distinguish between true gynecomastia, involving excess glandular tissue, and pseudogynecomastia, characterized by excess fat accumulation in the chest area.
True gynecomastia typically results from hormonal imbalances, while pseudogynecomastia is often associated with factors such as obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
A thorough evaluation by our qualified Boston gynecomastia surgeon can help determine the underlying cause and disclose the most appropriate treatment approach.
Causes of Gynecomastia
Adult gynecomastia is caused by several factors, including hormonal fluctuations, medication side effects, metabolic irregularities, and lifestyle elements.
One significant contributor is hormonal imbalance, particularly when testosterone levels decline in relation to estrogen levels. This shift can occur naturally as men age or due to various medical conditions, medications, or substance use, such as anabolic steroids or marijuana.
Gynecomastia has a tremendous effect on psychological well-being in addition to its physical repercussions. Many who struggle with the condition report feeling more self-conscious, embarrassed, and having much lower self-esteem. As a result, individuals might decide to stay away from activities that require them to expose their chest, such as sports or swimming.
Gynecomastia Symptoms
Depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause, adult gynecomastia can appear with a range of symptoms. Common signs include the enlargement of breast tissue, tenderness or sensitivity in the nipples, the asymmetrical appearance of the chest, and the presence of palpable breast lumps.
In addition to these physical symptoms, individuals affected by gynecomastia may also experience psychological distress. Feelings of anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal are common due to the emotional impact of dealing with gynecomastia. These psychological symptoms can significantly affect a person’s mental well-being and quality of life.
It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of gynecomastia when seeking treatment.
Surgical Procedure
Male breast reduction surgery is an effective treatment for persistent gynecomastia. It involves a combination of liposuction to remove excess fat and direct excision of glandular tissue.
During the surgery, incisions are strategically placed along the lower edge of the areola to minimize scarring. Our surgeons remove excess glandular tissue and fat deposits to achieve a more masculine chest contour. Depending on the patient’s goals, additional techniques like skin tightening may be used to enhance the results.
What to Expect After Surgery
After undergoing adult male breast reduction surgery at the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists, patients can anticipate a swift recovery period, often resuming their usual activities within a few days. To aid in healing and reduce swelling, patients wear a compression garment and refrain from strenuous physical activities for a few weeks to ensure the best possible outcome.
Prescribed pain medication and proper post-operative care can effectively manage temporary bruising, swelling, and discomfort that are common post-surgery. Adhering closely to our surgeon’s guidance and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns that may arise during the recovery phase.
For more, you can check out the results comparing before and after gynecomastia surgery.
FAQs for Adult Gynecomastia
What are the potential risks associated with surgery?
Adult gynecomastia surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. However, they are rare and can be minimized by choosing Boston Gynecomastia Specialists and adhering closely to pre-operative and post-operative instructions.
How long does the recovery period typically last?
Following surgery, most patients can anticipate returning to their daily routines within a few days. However, to facilitate optimal healing, it’s advisable to refrain from engaging in strenuous physical activities for several weeks.
Will there be visible scarring after surgery?
Our skilled surgeons strategically place surgical incisions along the lower edge of the areola to minimize visible scarring, ensuring optimal aesthetic outcomes. With diligent post-operative care and proper healing, these scars tend to fade gradually over time. As the healing process progresses they become less and less noticeable.
When will I see the final results of the surgery?
Although initial results may be noticeable shortly after surgery, it’s important to understand that it can take several months for swelling to fully subside and for the final results to become apparent. Patience and strict adherence to post-operative instructions are crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Are there any lifestyle changes I need to make before surgery?
In addition to surgical intervention, our gynecomastia surgeon specialists may suggest lifestyle adjustments to optimize healing and enhance overall outcomes. These modifications may include quitting smoking, adopting a nutritious diet, and avoiding specific medications or substances known to impede the healing process.
Can gynecomastia return after surgery?
While adult gynecomastia surgery typically yields long-lasting results, there is a slight possibility of recurrence. This can be the case if underlying hormonal imbalances or lifestyle factors remain unaddressed. Therefore, it’s important for patients to collaborate closely with our medical team to identify and manage any contributing factors to minimize the risk of recurrence.
What should I expect during the initial consultation?
During your consultation, our surgeon will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which includes reviewing your medical history, performing a physical examination, and engaging in a discussion about your objectives. This consultation serves as an opportunity for you to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have regarding the procedure.
How can I ensure the best possible outcome from surgery?
Following your surgeon’s instructions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, attending appointments, and communicating openly with our healthcare team is key to achieving the best results from gynecomastia surgery.
Boston Adult Gynecomastia Recap
At the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists, we understand the physical and emotional impact of adult gynecomastia. We are dedicated to providing personalized treatment solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
If you’re ready to take the first step towards reclaiming your confidence, schedule your consultation with our experienced gynecomastia specialists today.
If you believe you may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery or would like to learn more about our services, we invite you to schedule an individualized in-person consultation and take the first step.
The Boston Gynecomastia Specialists covers the Boston area and beyond. Just some of the main cities of service include:
And don’t worry if you do not live in New England. It is also possible to arrange a virtual consultation for gynecomastia surgery, allowing you to speak with our doctors and get you started in the right direction.
The Boston Gynecomastia Specialists is the premier Greater Boston Gynecomastia Center of excellence. We prioritize delivering exceptional care from your initial consultation to your recovery and beyond. We deeply value the trust you place in us and are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care. Our team, led by Dr. Edwin Ishoo, a board-certified surgeon specializing in gynecomastia treatment, is devoted to achieving optimal surgical results for each individual. Recognizing that every person is unique, we personalize our approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule your personalized in-person consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists today. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Boston Gynecomastia Specialists
1260 Cambridge st
Cambridge, MA 02139
(888) 380-322