Gynecomastia in Hinsdale, IL

The scientific term, gynecomastia, is used to describe a condition that causes enlarged male breasts. This condition is one that can result in a feminine chest due to the abnormal growth of breast tissue. Many times, gynecomastia is related to an unknown hormonal condition. It may also be caused by certain medications, steroids, major weight gain or loss, or it can be hereditary. Men with this condition generally feel anxious and embarrassed, more so in situations where the chest area is shown, such as at the beach, pool, or at the gym. Hinsdale, IL aesthetic plastic surgeon Dr. George Kouris performs cosmetic breast treatment for men who suffer from gynecomastia. This cosmetic treatment does have a high success rate. It is one of the more common cosmetic surgeries for men at Kouris M.D. Cosmetic Plastic Surgery.

Gynecomastia surgery is reserved for men with visible excess breast tissue that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise. If you are frustrated by the look of your chest (but at a good weight), you could possibly benefit from this surgery by Dr. Kouris at Kouris M.D. Cosmetic Plastic Surgery. Male teens may also attain positive results from gynecomastia treatment; however, a future procedure may be necessary later as an adult if new breast tissue continues to grow. In your initial consultation with Dr. Kouris, treatment considerations will be presented, including the likelihood of having surgery to correct the condition.

Fat removal is typically utilized during gynecomastia surgery. Performed under general anesthesia, liposuction removes excess fat from the internal chest region. Afterward, any loose or wrinkled skin will be excised to produce a tighter look, and then the nipple will be surgically reshaped and placed into a more correct position. For most men, this technique requires an incision near where the glandular tissue resides. After the pockets of fat and excess skin have been addressed, Dr. Kouris will tighten the remaining skin.

After your gynecomastia surgery, the chest will be wrapped with a compression bandage to help reduce swelling. For complex cases where a more invasive technique was used, a small tube for draining may be inserted to help with fluid buildup. The outcomes following gynecomastia treatment are almost immediately seen and most men are extremely pleased with the surgical results. Any incisions made during this procedure take a few weeks to heal and any scars left behind are barely seen. With your new, masculine-appearing chest, you may get clearance from Dr. Kouris to continue exercise and weight training, which will assist in complementing the final outcome.

How much does male breast reduction cost?
Excessive male breast tissue (gynecomastia) is a medical problem that is best handled by an experienced surgeon. For this reason, Dr. Kouris suggests you focus on how to get your best results rather than costs. To help make male breast reduction surgery fit your budget, Kouris M.D. Cosmetic Plastic Surgery takes several payment methods. We can also help you locate low-interest medical financing. While surgery for gynecomastia is typically not covered by health insurance, it's worth contacting your insurer to check.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is an imbalance in the hormones. Most often, gynecomastia is connected to the long-term use of androgens and anabolic steroids. It may also be the result of using illegal drugs, including marijuana or heroin. Gynecomastia might also be triggered by some medical conditions (for example, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and tumors), as well as some medications (for example, highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, chemotherapy, and anti-anxiety medications).

How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which can cause tenderness, swelling, and pain. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia) so Dr. Kouris suggests patients to try to lose weight by following an exercise plan and a healthy diet before considering surgery. If you still have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Kouris will perform a physical exam and order diagnostic tests. This might include a mammogram, blood tests, or a biopsy to look for other causes, like an infection of the breast tissue (mastitis) or cancer.

Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
Male breast reduction surgery is the most effective treatment for gynecomastia. Currently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) hasn't approved any medications for the treatment of gynecomastia. Although they aren't approved for the treatment of gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (for example, Raloxifene or Tamoxifen) might give you minimal improvements. Upper body weight training to increase the pectoral muscles will not reduce the excess breast tissue and could even make the breasts look bigger.

Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Glandular gynecomastia can cause puffy or pointy nipples. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Kouris at your consultation. He will personalize your surgical plan to select the best incision pattern and technique to improve your nipples. Oversized areolas may also be corrected in surgery for gynecomastia. It is crucial to be open and honest with Dr. Kouris about all your concerns and wants during your initial consultation so he can make sure you are happy with your results.

If you are frustrated with the side effects of male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), we invite you to contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kouris to learn about our male breast reduction procedure at Kouris M.D. Cosmetic Plastic Surgery. Once you've had treatment for gynecomastia, you won't have to keep hiding your chest when you go to the gym and beach. We have helped many Hinsdale, IL men and have enjoyed helping them regain their self-confidence.