Gynecomastia Breast Reduction Surgery Offers Hope

An estimated 50 percent of men will experience some form of gynecomastia during their lives. A condition that causes breast tissue to enlarge and swell, gynecomastia can affect boys at a very young age, causing extreme discomfort, social anxiety and embarrassment. In the majority of cases, gynecomastia is caused by an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone. While both sexes produce the “female” hormone estrogen, increased levels can cause pre-pubescent or teenage boys to develop excess glandular tissue in the breasts. Other cases of gynecomastia in boys may be attributed to medications used to treat anxiety, depression and infection.

Gynecomastia will resolve on its own in the majority of cases– typically within six to eight months as estrogen levels drop and hormone balance is attained. However, about 5 percent of sufferers will develop persistent gynecomastia, which can be a veritable nightmare for young boys still in school. In a society that places great emphasis on physical appearance and conformity, living with male breasts can lead to serious emotional and physical distress. Gynecomastia during puberty comes with rough consequences. Many boys are taunted by their peers, and live in fear of ridicule for their “man boobs.” Some are so self-conscious about their appearance when shirtless, they quit playing organized sports altogether.

Fortunately, there is an effective solution for boys who suffer from persistent gynecomastia that does not resolve with medication or time: male breast reduction surgery.

Male breast reduction surgery

Most experts agree that gynecomastia should resolve spontaneously within a year and a half following onset. After that time frame, it is unlikely that glandular tissue will shrink on its own. In situations like these, breast reduction surgery can remove extra tissue, helping younger patients regain confidence about their appearance.

New York plastic surgeon Dr. B. Aviva Preminger offers breast reduction to male teenage and adult patients, and often achieves best results using liposuction on target areas. Depending on the amount of tissue that needs to be excised, the procedure can last from one to three hours, and is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Preminger uses great care when making incisions, ensuring that surgical scars are virtually undetectable after a few months.

While all surgical procedures involve some degree of risk, the benefits of male breast reduction in adolescents are tangible for those suffering from low self-esteem. This type of surgery offers younger patients, who are in a vulnerable stage of life, much more than just cosmetic results. Breast reduction gives younger men a fresh start in life, one in which they aren’t ashamed to take their shirts off or dealing with cruel teasing from peers.

Gynecomastia surgery in NYC

Breast reduction surgery isn’t recommended for every patient with enlarged breasts, but for those who are candidates, the procedure promises life-changing results that can help boost self-esteem and create a more positive body image. If your teenage son is struggling with the effects of gynecomastia, we invite you to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Preminger in NYC by calling 212.706.1900 or submitting our online contact form.