Confidence is not the result of how a person looks. However, appearance is a major contributing factor to appearance. A plastic surgeon is well aware of this connection. In our office, we continually see people’s confidence transformed by various procedures that free them of their cosmetic concerns. For example, male breast reduction can free a man of the appearance of female-like breasts. In so doing, the procedure also allows him to wear clothing that suits him. Feeling more confident, he may also engage more fully in his life. Correcting the contours of the chest can free a man from wearing compression garments or very loose shirts. Most of all, it can free him from the blame he may have placed on himself for “being out of shape.”
Understanding Gynecomastia
One thing we want to make clear about true gynecomastia is that it has nothing to do with weight. This is a common misconception that causes unnecessary emotional harm to men affected by this condition. There is a problem referred to as pseudo-gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of the breasts caused by obesity. Even in this situation, though, surgical intervention may be necessary to resolve the problem.
According to multiple scientific studies, gynecomastia is related to factors such as hormone imbalance and genetics. Hormone imbalance may result from health conditions and even from certain medications. Like losing weight, though, changing medications or lifestyle may not be enough to resolve male breast enlargement.
Gynecomastia Correction
A plastic surgeon can resolve gynecomastia by directly treating the male chest. Gynecomastia surgery is customized to each patient based on the severity of their condition. Men who have lingering breast fat after weight loss may achieve good results with liposuction alone. Men with lingering breast fat after weight loss may also have sagging skin. In this instance, they may need liposuction and a skin-tightening procedure. For some patients, contour improvement is achieved by removing the breast gland. Ultimately, Dr. Schaffer recommends the protocol that he believes will restore a man’s confidence and quality of life.
Gynecomastia affects millions of adult men. Regardless of the severity of this problem, there is a way to treat it. The conversation with a plastic surgeon is one worth having. To schedule your consultation at our San Antonio office, call 210-227-3223.