I Developed Gynecomastia as an Adult. What Are My Treatment Options? 

While many cases of gynecomastia develop in adolescents, others develop later in adults. Depending on the amount of excess skin and breast tissue on the individual, different treatment options may be implemented to reach the patient’s desired results. This blog discusses why adult men develop gynecomastia, how common it is, what the gynecomastia surgical procedure entails, and what some of the surgical techniques are. 

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What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a medical condition where there is an increase in male breast tissue, resulting in men having large breasts. This condition can cause pain in the breasts, make clothes fit poorly, and overall be a source of insecurity for men because their chest appearance doesn’t correspond with the successful, confident image many would like to project.

Developing Gynecomastia as an Adult

While many cases of gynecomastia develop in teenage boys or men in their twenties, others develop it later in life. Around 24 to 65 percent of adult men develop gynecomastia between the ages of 50 to 80. Why does this excess breast tissue develop? Roughly a quarter of all adult gynecomastia instances are due to previously untreated adolescent gynecomastia that has continued to persist. Unknown reasons cause another quarter of adult gynecomastia cases. Other causes of adult gynecomastia are drug use, drug abuse, malnutrition, aging, low testosterone levels, testicular tumors, low sperm count, and hypothyroidism. 

Regardless of what caused the gynecomastia, the result of developing man boobs can be very frustrating for men to deal with. It is upsetting for your body to change in a way you dislike, and it can make you lose confidence in your appearance. 

What Exercises Get Rid of Man Boobs 

Many people will turn to exercise to get rid of their gynecomastia. Aerobic exercises and chest-focused workouts can help eliminate fat and sculpt the chest muscles. However, exercise is not an effective method for getting rid of gynecomastia. Male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is needed to treat gynecomastia and eliminate the appearance of male breasts. 

Your Gynecomastia Treatment Options

The specific surgical techniques used during your male breast reduction procedure will depend on the severity of your gynecomastia. Dr. Delgado assesses each patient’s gynecomastia and customizes his approach to each surgery based on the patient’s goals and body. 

The Basics of Male Breast Reduction

The foundation of gynecomastia surgery includes a breast gland excision paired with liposuction. The gland excision is performed to remove the excess breast tissue. The amount of breast glands removed varies from person to person. In some cases, all of the breast glands are removed if needed. Liposuction is used during gynecomastia surgery to remove excess fatty tissues in the chest and nipple regions, which eliminates any appearance of puffy nipples. 

Surgical Techniques

The pull-through technique is an option for men with less severe cases of gynecomastia and a minimal amount of extra breast tissue. This minimally invasive technique involves a very small 3 to 5 mm incision. 

The most common surgical technique is direct breast gland excision with liposuction, with over 85 percent of the cases utilizing this option. This technique is performed through a 1-inch incision at the bottom of the areola, which heals amazingly well.

For men with lots of excess breast tissue, a mastectomy with a free nipple graft is an excellent option. During this procedure, the extra breast glands and fatty tissues are removed as usual, with the addition of the nipple-areolar complex being resized. 

Another option for men with more severe cases is the gynecomastia two-stage procedure. This option involves two surgical procedures spaced around 5 to 6 months apart. The first stage is when the excess tissue and fat are removed, and the second stage deals with removing the excess skin. 

Schedule Your Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation in San Francisco, CA

Ready to get rid of your man boobs for good? To learn more about your gynecomastia options in San Francisco, CA, call (415) 989-2221 or fill out the online contact form today!