Every year almost 14,000 men go under the knife to correct a condition known as gynecomastia: unwanted breast tissue commonly referred to as "man breasts." More common than you might think, it is estimated 40-50% of all men have some degree of gynecomastia.

What causes man breasts?

There are several potential causes of this unwelcome development. Among them:

• Puberty
• Steroid abuse
• Obesity
• Genetic disorders
• Chronic liver disease
• Aging
• Side effects of medications/drugs, such as estrogens, drugs that inhibit testosterone synthesis,some anti-depressants, alcohol, marijuana and others.

Who is a candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

Surgery to correct gynecomastia can be performed on healthy, emotionally stable men of any age.  The best candidates for surgery have firm, elastic skin that will reshape to the body's new contours.

Prior to surgery, Dr. Singer may recommend weight loss, diet and lifestyle changes, or other alterations to ensure that all possible simple solutions have been considered.  Individuals who drink alcoholic beverages in excess, smoke marijuana, or consume anabolic steroids are usually not considered good candidates for surgery since lifestyle alterations could readily alter excess fat and tissues in the chest area.  Therefore, patients are first directed to stop the use of these drugs to see if breast fullness will diminish before surgery is considered an option.

What does the procedure involve?

If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause of breast enlargement, it will be removed. The excision may be performed alone or in conjunction with liposuction to help remove excess fat.  In a typical procedure, an incision is made in a barely visible location, such as the edge of the areola, or in the under arm area.  Working through the incision, the surgeon removes excess glandular tissue, fat and skin from around the areola and from the sides and bottom of the breast.  Major reductions that involve the removal of a significant amount of tissue and skin may require larger incisions that result in more obvious scars. Each patient has unique needs and every procedure is different and tailored to the patient.

If the cause of gynecomastia consists primarily of excessive fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue, liposuction may be all that's needed to remove the fat.  A small incision, less than a half-inch in length, is made around the edge of the nipple or in the underarm area to insert a cannula which assists with the breakdown and removal of body fat.

If you are embarrassed by man breasts, it's good to know that simple solutions are available. Dr. Singer has helped hundreds of men regain self-confidence and a healthy self-image through this relatively simple procedure. To find out just how simple it can be, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Singer at 727-547-9244.