Magazines and social media may have us believe that every man wants a sculpted, bulging chest. This isn’t every man’s truth. What may be true for every man, though, is a desire for a masculine shape. Men expect to look a certain way based on their biology. The chest area of a man is quite different than that of a woman. There is more muscle than fat, which lends to a slimmer, firmer appearance even in the absence of intense exercise. Gynecomastia, the condition in which the male breast grows similar to a female breast, robs a man of his rightful expectations. Here, we discuss why gynecomastia surgery has become an increasingly popular solution for this problem.

Gynecomastia Surgery is Necessary

In most cases, surgery is the ultimate solution for male breast enlargement. Studies have shown that true gynecomastia is unlikely to respond to weight loss and exercise. Even very fit men struggle with too much breast tissue if they have gynecomastia. This happens because we aren’t dealing only with fat; we’re also dealing with excess glandular tissue. Gynecomastia has also been associated with hormonal imbalance. Approximately one-quarter of male breast enlargement affecting men aged 50 to 70 involves hormone disruption. Still, hormone regulation is only one aspect of resolving gynecomastia. Often, surgery is needed to correct the enlargement that has occurred.

Gynecomastia Surgery is Beneficial

Men do not seek gynecomastia surgery because they have a medical problem. Enlarged breasts are usually not an indication of breast cancer or other medical conditions. Gynecomastia is a simple matter of excess tissue not related to weight. So, while male breast reduction is not needed to improve physical health, it is highly rewarding on an emotional level. Many men with gynecomastia feel overly-anxious around others. They can feel low self-esteem all the time and, in many cases, feel hopeless that they can change their shape. A simple procedure can do what exercise has not.

Gynecomastia surgery is minimally invasive, has a relatively short recovery period, and achieves lasting results. Understandably, the idea of surgery is intimidating. Men wanting a more sculpted chest can expect a streamlined procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. In many cases, liposuction can achieve the desired outcome.

Men used to be somewhat left out of the plastic surgery arena. Now that it has become more commonplace to have cosmetic procedures, men are feeling empowered to address concerns like gynecomastia. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Rosenthal, call our San Jose area office at 408-840-2553.