PHOENIX, AZ--(Marketwired - Mar 4, 2015) - Gynecomastia is a common breast disorder occurring in men which is characterized by the development of enlarged breasts, states Dr. Steven H. Turkeltaub, a board certified plastic surgeon in Phoenix. Typically resulting from elevated hormonal levels during puberty, Dr. Turkeltaub notes that this condition can be a source of severe self-consciousness and embarrassment for both adolescents and adults, often having a significant impact on daily activities and social interactions. Other causes can include obesity, use of steroids, side effects of various medications, marijuana usage, aging, and various health problems.
Males experiencing symptoms of gynecomastia have a number of options available to them to deal with this issue, says Dr. Turkeltaub. Depending on the severity of the condition, he explains that wearing compression shirts with overlying loose shirts or just very loose and even layered baggy shirts may be effective solutions for some individuals though the definitive treatment for gynecomastia is male breast reduction surgery. This entails the removal of the excess or enlarged fat and/or breast tissue that can result in a more masculine appearing chest.
At his practice, Dr. Turkeltaub performs male breast reduction surgery as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. If the enlargement is at least partially due to an abundance of fat, then ultrasonic assisted liposuction would be employed to remove the excess fat and sculpt the chest. When there is an enlargement of glandular breast tissue, direct excision of this tissue is required. In severe cases where there is an excess of skin that may even be droopy, its precise removal may be required in order to obtain optimal results. On average, the procedure takes under two hours to complete.
Following male breast reduction surgery, Dr. Turkeltaub notes that a compression dressing will be placed to help minimize bruising, swelling, and discomfort. After a few days, the dressing is typically replaced with a snug-fitting elastic sports shirt that is to be worn regularly for at least two weeks. The Phoenix plastic surgeon says the majority of patients return to school and/or non-strenuous work within a few days, and most athletic activities can be resumed after about two and a half to three weeks.
Ultimately, Dr. Turkeltaub states that treating gynecomastia with male breast reduction surgery can be truly rewarding. "The physical and psychological benefits gained by correcting male breast enlargement with surgery are often quite profound. In fact, for many men the improved self-confidence and esteem is life-changing."