Gynecomastia is the medical term for enlarged male breasts, a condition that affects approximately one in four men between the ages of 50 and 69. If you have it, it can affect your ability to go shirtless and to wear form-fitting shirts. Many men who have it feel uncomfortable in their own skin.
The condition prevents affected men from going shirtless while swimming or at the beach, and it makes them uncomfortable when undressing in front of the opposite sex. For many men young and old, it’s a source of body shame. This often prevents them from working out at the gym, jogging, and wearing the clothes they want.
Gynecomastia can impact self-esteem and it can keep one from engaging in certain types of physical and social activities, but it doesn’t have to. If you have “man boobs,” it doesn’t have to be a lifelong curse. Gynecomastia surgery can give you the boost you need to start living the live you dream of.
Which Procedure is Best for You?
If you’re considering gynecomastia surgery, the first step will be to determine which procedure is right for you. To begin, you’ll have a consultation with our Board-Certified Surgeon, Dr. Yuly Gorodisky, who will determine if your chest fullness is due to loose skin around the areolar, excess breast tissue, excess fat, or excess breast tissue and fat.
If you are older, or if you lost a significant amount of weight, the gynecomastia may be due to loose skin around the areolar, which is easily fixed with an areolar reduction. On the other hand, if excess fat is the culprit, liposuction may be the ideal procedure. However, many gynecomastia patients have excess breast tissue and fat; therefore, it’s necessary to remove breast tissue and fat.
How to Prepare for Surgery
If you decide that gynecomastia surgery is right for you, you’ll want to prepare first. The best way to do that is to overhaul your diet and exercise routine. If your condition was caused by a medication or recreational drug, you’ll be advised to stop taking it before you have the surgery. If your condition was caused by excess fat, here’s our advice:
- Eat a lot of fresh vegetables.
- Increase your intake of fruits.
- Reduce the amount of alcohol you’re drinking and switch from beer to lower sugar alcoholic drinks, such as vodka, whisky, and tequila.
- Cut out the sugar, white flour, and processed foods.
- Switch to a whole-food diet (real food that is not processed).
- Avoid all forms of sugar, including honey, agave, and artificial sweeteners.
- Get regular exercise three to six days a week.
- Lift weights at least three times a week.
Related: Why More Men Are Turning to Plastic Surgeons
Gynecomastia has several causes, including excess calories, a sedentary lifestyle, prescription medication, and recreational drug use. If you are ready to address your gynecomastia and start living the life you deserve, contact our office to request a consultation with Dr. Yuly Gorodisky to discuss your options. It could be a game changer.