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How Can I Tell If I Have Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a medical term that refers to the development of male breasts, caused by the presence of excessive breast tissue and/or fat. Though often brought on by hormonal changes that occur during puberty, this common condition can affect both adolescent and adult males. In addition to hormonal imbalances, the enlargement of male breast tissue can stem from obesity, alcohol and marijuana consumption, androgenic steroids, and simply genetics. Frequently, however, no specific cause can be pinpointed.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia

The primary symptom of gynecomastia is overdeveloped or disproportionate male breasts. For many males, excessive breast tissue is often accompanied by an accumulation of extra skin and fat, both of which contribute to the appearance of enlarged breasts. Secondary symptoms can include nipple protrusion, swelling, and tenderness—though there is generally no severe pain. While gynecomastia indications typically occur in both breasts (sometimes unevenly), there are instances in which only one side is affected. Gynecomastia rarely goes unnoticed by the sufferer, and many men experience social discomfort and difficulty with their body image as a result.

Treatment for Gynecomastia

If you are bothered by overdeveloped or disproportionately large male breasts and are interested in treatment, Our Austin plastic surgeon—Dr. Steven Holzman—suggests seeking the expertise of an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon skilled in male breast reduction procedures and high-definition body contouring. During a thorough evaluation, your unique situation can be assessed, and all available treatment options can be discussed in great detail. The definitive surgical solution for gynecomastia is ultimately male breast reduction surgery. During this procedure, liposuction is often combined with direct excision techniques to remove fat, reduce breast tissue, and resculpt the appearance of the chest. The end result can be a more toned and contoured chest with natural-looking results.

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To learn more about gynecomastia, or if you wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holzman, please contact us today.