Gynecomastia Surgery in Columbus, OH
Gynecomastia is a medical condition that results in excess or enlargement of breast tissue in men. This condition can be caused by genetics, certain types of medications, recreational drugs, or a combination of chemical imbalances that affect estrogen and testosterone levels in men, leading to an increase in breast tissue and fat cells. Although short-term gynecomastia is normal for male development during puberty, the size and appearance of the breasts usually resolve once puberty has ended. However, gynecomastia can continue from adolescence into adulthood.
Although it’s not a serious medical condition with life-threatening side effects, gynecomastia can have some significant consequences on the physiological health of an individual. Learn how a Columbus gynecomastia surgery can help you achieve a more masculine, chiseled chest appearance that improves your overall body image and self-confidence. Contact us or call (614) 490-7500.
What Causes Gynecomastia in Men?
Men presenting with gynecomastia notice having a solid, almost elastic ball-shaped mass that they can feel under their nipples in one or both breasts. The mass can range from an inch or two in diameter and can also be painful to the touch. Some men with gynecomastia may even notice discharge.
Common causes of gynecomastia include:
- Puberty: Short-term gynecomastia is normal due to a hormonal imbalance during puberty that usually resolves itself once the individual reaches adulthood.
- Hormone levels: Men who have completed puberty and still have enlarged breasts may be suffering from a hormonal imbalance. They should ask their doctor to have these levels checked to ensure there aren’t any underlying medical issues that need attention.
- Use of recreational drugs, including heroin, marijuana, amphetamines, or anabolic steroids
Heavy use of alcohol
Overactive thyroid, kidney disease, or tumors
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Right for You?
You might benefit from gynecomastia surgery if you meet any of the following criteria:
Excess breast tissue has produced a poor body image, reduced your self-esteem, or caused depression: Strong, chiseled chest muscles are often considered core masculine characteristics of a healthy, attractive man. Excess breast tissue can contribute to an unhealthy appearance, even if the individual takes great care and pride in their health.
- Negative side effects from a hormonal imbalance: A hormonal imbalance will have an impact on the appearance of your chest muscles, and it can also affect your mood, motivation, sleep, and overall livelihood.
- Interfere with sexual relationships: Some men report feeling the size of their breasts is unsightly and negatively affects their desire or ability to confidently engage in intimate acts with their partner.
- Pain or discomfort during exercise or physical activities: Because of the ball-shaped mass behind the nipples present in individuals with gynecomastia, exercise can be quite uncomfortable. This can dispossess them of important health benefits and make it harder for them to maintain their ideal muscle mass and definition.
No matter your reason for seeking gynecomastia surgery, you’ll always find compassionate, understanding care at Zochowski Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. We understand and deeply resonate with the fact that a person’s body image can greatly impact their mental and physical health. Our desire as a team is to help you feel confident in the appearance and abilities of your body.
To be eligible for gynecomastia surgery, it is required that you be a non-smoker. You will also need to be able to provide a clean bill of health that includes your hormone levels. When you arrive for your consultation with Dr. Christopher Zochowski, he will carefully review your medical history to verify that you can safely undergo this procedure and its recovery. Before you select gynecomastia surgery, you should also be sure you’re done losing weight and at a body mass index of 35 or lower.
Schedule a Private Consultation
If you’re in the Columbus area and have any questions or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Christopher Zochowski, please contact our office today.
Gynecomastia Surgery Techniques
Liposuction
When gynecomastia is caused by an abundance of fatty tissue, Dr. Zochowski may recommend liposuction. Liposuction, or liposculpting, is a body contouring technique that removes localized fat that is unresponsive to diet and exercise. The initial phase of liposuction involves the dislodgment of fat and tissue from the targeted area. Once the fat is dislodged, Dr. Zochowski makes a small incision in the skin and inserts a small tube called a cannula to extract the fat. Once the excess fat has been eliminated, the incisions are closed and dressed. You’ll likely need to wear a compression bandage to help reduce swelling and provide additional support to the affected area.
Excision
If gynecomastia involves an excess of glandular tissue or if the nipple needs to be repositioned to enhance the chest contours and overall appearance, an excision procedure may be necessary. During excisions, Dr. Zochowski makes two incisions along the top and bottom of the breasts. The position and length of these incisions will depend on the amount of tissue that needs to be removed, but they are usually situated around the areolae or in the natural folds of the chest. The excess tissue, skin, and fat are removed, and the nipples are resized and repositioned into a more masculine appearance.
Dr. Zochowski will work closely with you to choose a surgical technique that matches your goals and provides you with the most beneficial outcomes.
What Should I Expect During a Gynecomastia Recovery?
The length of your gynecomastia recovery will depend on the extent of your procedure. Although some results are apparent immediately after surgery, for the first few weeks after surgery, most patients will only be able to notice swelling and puffiness. These symptoms will gradually resolve and reduce after four to six weeks of recovery.
Patients generally report some mild discomfort after their procedure. Most of the pain is experienced in the first 48 hours, but Dr. Zochowski will provide you with prescription pain medication to help keep you comfortable during these first few days. While complications following gynecomastia surgery are rare, patients can minimize the risk of potential problems occurring by carefully following all postoperative instructions.
Complete recovery from gynecomastia surgery usually takes one month. During this time, you’ll be required to avoid strenuous activities, including strenuous cardio, heavy lifting, and activities that involve raising your arms over your head.
Schedule Your Gynecomastia Consultation in Ohio
If you reside in the Columbus area and you want to masculinize and chisel your chest muscles, please contact our practice for a consultation. Dr. Zochowski will personally conduct your consultation, starting with a one-on-one discussion about your goals, procedure details, and follow-up care instructions. Our goal is to help you address your body image issues so that you can live with the confidence to pursue your dreams and ambitions.