Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon San Francisco Blog

"Woman-like breasts," the Greek translation for the medical term gynecomastia, is a common condition among men. In fact, it's found in about one-third of the male population and can affect one or both breasts. Though it often begins at puberty, this overdevelopment can happen to men at any age.

Gynecomastia can result from hormonal changes, genetics, disease, or the use of certain drugs. If you are a man suffering from this condition, you may feel self-conscious or even avoid physical activities like running or swimming. Your sexuality may also be impaired by your desire to hide your overdeveloped breasts.

If gynecomastia is negatively impacting your life, surgery can be performed to remove the type of tissue that's causing your breast enlargement. That tissue is different for everyone - it could be glandular, fatty or fatty-glandular.

Your cosmetic surgeon has two choices: make a small incision under your nipple and surgically remove the excess tissue, or remove the tissue with liposuction through a similar incision at the edge of your nipple. Combining both procedures is common, and often creates the best outcome.

Men who are in good physical health and whose breast development has stabilized are good candidates for this surgery. Experts recommend trying alternative medical treatments before going under the knife.

After your surgery is completed, you may experience some bruising and excessive bleeding. Other possible complications include: altered shape of your nipple, loss of sensation in or around the area affected, and skin rippling. A typical recovery takes one to two weeks.

To learn more about plastic surgery and which procedures and treatments are available to you today, please contact Dr. Weil today to schedule your initial consultation.