Gynecomastia is a condition that causes benign enlargement of the breasts in men. While it is non-cancerous and is not harmful, it can result in feelings of insecurity and a negative self-image. At West Michigan Plastic Surgery, Dr. Holley provides gynecomastia surgery to treat enlarged breasts and help men achieve their desired masculine chest.
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery is the medical name for male breast reduction surgery. The surgery is used to treat enlarged breasts in men. Most cases resolve themselves between six months to three years, but some men struggle with persistent symptoms.
At West Michigan Plastic Surgery, Dr. Holley uses three methods to reduce enlarged breasts. Excision corrects gynecomastia caused primarily by glandular tissue. Liposuction reduces gynecomastia primarily caused by fatty tissue. However, the most common type of surgery is a combination of the two techniques.
Gynecomastia
Before & After Photos
This 25 year old from Goshen, Indiana presented with moderate level gynecomastia. He chose to undergo a treatment option that included liposuction-direct excision combination for the tissue.
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Am I a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
If you are struggling with gynecomastia and cannot be treated by alternative medical treatments, you are an excellent candidate for gynecomastia surgery. Other factors in your candidacy include the following:
- Healthy with no conditions that could affect healing
- Non-smokers and non-drug users
- A positive outlook with specific goals
- Realistic expectations
- Stabilized breast development
- Bothered by breast size
If you are an adolescent, you may still be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery; however, you may need a second surgery if development continues.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Men and women both have estrogen and testosterone in their bodies; however, testosterone is typically higher in males, and estrogen generally is higher in women.
Gynecomastia is commonly caused by a hormonal imbalance in which the estrogen or testosterone is too low. In adolescence, the imbalance may be due to natural fluctuations in development. If you suffer from persistent symptoms, medications, genetics, or chronic obesity could be causing your gynecomastia.
If medications or drugs cause the imbalance, the condition should subside as you stop taking the medicines. Some medications that could cause gynecomastia include anabolic steroids, ulcer medications, chemotherapy, some HIV medications, and antibiotics.
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff for an in-person consultation. Simply fill out the form, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.
Request a consultationShould I Get Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia is divided into grades 1-4. The grades depend on the severity of your condition. Grade I is mild excessive fat or tissue with no excess skin. Grade 2 is a moderate amount of excess fat and tissue, with no excess skin.
More severe cases include grade 3, with moderate excess fat and tissue with mild-to-moderate excess skin. Lastly, grade 4 is the most excessive fat and glandular tissue, excess skin, and drooping breasts.
During your consultation, Dr. Holley will look at the severity of your condition and other medical factors before recommending surgery or another treatment. To know if you should receive male breast reduction surgery, please schedule your consultation at West Michigan Plastic Surgery.
Take the Next Step
Would you like to learn more about gynecomastia surgery? Simply fill out the form on this page or call West Michigan Plastic Surgery at (269) 222-1611 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Scott Holley, a Board-Certified plastic surgeon. Proudly serving Kalamazoo and the greater Southwest Michigan area.