All of you out there who are avid network TV watchers (like some of us are) may have seen last week’s episode of ABC’s long time hit Grey’s Anatomy, in which a young, 13 year old boy underwent male breast reduction surgery. The character’s over-sized breasts were attributed to a condition known as gynecomastia.
Effecting a large number of males (40-60% according to 2008 statistics), gynecomastia is the presence of excess fat or glandular tissue in the male breast causing an over-feminized appearance. Though often exhibited in teenage boys that have recently gone through puberty (like the Grey’s character), the condition is attributed to numerous causes including: spiked estrogen levels during puberty, taking certain medications, anabolic steroid use, and weight gain.
If gynecomastia is drug or weight induced, many plastic surgeons will first suggest adopting a healthier life style (i.e.- diet and exercise or stopping steroid use). However, if this isn’t the case, a board certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. David Whiteman can remove the excess fat via liposuction and then surgically excise any remaining glandular tissue. While this procedure is not complicated, usually taking about an hour to complete, male breast reduction results can be life changing.
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery or the other breast surgeries offered at Southern Plastic Surgery such as: breast augmentation/ breast enhancement, breast reduction, breast lift (mastopexy), or breast revision surgery visit our website or read our blog.