Gynecomastia in Chicago, IL

Gynecomastia is a scientific term used to explain cases of enlarged male breasts. This condition is one that can produce a feminine chest due to the increase of growing breast tissue. Many times, gynecomastia is related to an unknown hormonal problem. It may also be caused by certain medications, steroids, weight gain, or it can be hereditary. Men with this condition often feel frustrated and anxious, most commonly in situations where the chest is exposed such as at the beach, pool, or at the gym. Chicago native and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Saeed Chowdhry performs surgical breast reduction for area men who suffer from gynecomastia. This surgery does have a high success rate and is known as one of the more common cosmetic treatments for men at SAC Plastic Surgery. Schedule a consultation at our Oak Lawn, IL office today to learn more.

Male breast reduction treatment is reserved for men with overly sized breasts that cannot be treated through medications or diet. If you are troubled by the size and shape of your chest (but you're healthy and at an ideal weight), you could possibly benefit from male breast reduction surgery by Dr. Chowdhry at SAC Plastic Surgery. Adolescent teens may also attain positive results from gynecomastia treatment; however, an additional procedure may be needed later as an adult if excess breast tissue continues to develop. During your consultation with Dr. Chowdhry, treatment considerations will be provided including the chances of moving forward with surgery to correct the condition.

A form of liposuction is almost always utilized during male breast reduction surgery. While you are under general anesthesia, liposuction helps eliminate excess fat tissue from the internal chest region. Afterward, any lax skin will be carefully trimmed away to produce a taut look, and then the nipple area and surrounding areola will be surgically reshaped and placed into a proportionate position. For most men, this treatment strategy requires an incision in proximity to where the glandular tissue has formed. After the pockets of fat and excess skin have been appropriately handled, Dr. Chowdhry will pull together the remaining skin.

At the conclusion of your gynecomastia surgery, the chest will be supported with a compression bandage to help decrease swelling, bleeding, and bruising. For complex cases where a more intricate approach was used, a small tube for draining may be properly positioned to help with fluid. The outcomes following this procedure are almost immediately visible and most men are extremely excited with the cosmetic enhancement. Any incisions made during surgery take time to heal and any scars left behind are faint and easy to disguise. When your new masculine-appearing chest has healed, you will obtain medical clearance from Dr. Chowdhry to incorporate exercise and weight training, which will help to further accentuate the surgical results.

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. Chowdhry suggests you focus on how to get your best results rather than costs. To make male breast reduction surgery fit your budget, SAC Plastic Surgery accepts several payment methods. We can also help you locate low-interest financing. While surgery for gynecomastia is generally not covered by insurance, it's worth contacting your insurer to check.

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is an imbalance in the hormones. In most cases, gynecomastia is connected to the 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 (hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and tumors), plus some medications (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 pain, tenderness, and swelling. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia) so Dr. Chowdhry suggests patients lose weight by following an exercise plan and a healthy diet before considering surgery. If you have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Chowdhry 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 or 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 gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (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 appear larger.

Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Puffy or pointy nipples may be caused by glandular gynecomastia. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Chowdhry 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 honest with Dr. Chowdhry about all your concerns and wants during your initial consultation so he can make sure your desired results are achieved.

If you are frustrated with the side effects of male breast enlargement (gynecomastia), we invite you to call our office and schedule a one-on-one private consultation with Dr. Chowdhry to learn about our male breast reduction procedure. Once you've had treatment for gynecomastia (male breast enlargement), you won't have to keep hiding your chest when you go to the gym and beach. We have assisted so many Chicago area men and have enjoyed helping them reestablish their self-esteem. Contact SAC Plastic Surgery in Oak Lawn, IL to schedule your consultation.