Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of breast tissue in men. True gynecomastia is enlarged glandular tissue with or without fat tissue. Pseudogynecomastia is fatty deposits only. A common condition, more than 50% or higher of the male population has experienced this condition at some point in their lifetime. Either condition can cause embarrassment and anxiety or social isolation. A medical examination will help determine what condition you have and the treatment type. If liposuction is the right treatment for you, it’s a relatively simple procedure, with little to no scarring and quick recovery.
What Is The Difference Between Gynecomastia or Pseudogynecomastia?
The biggest difference is enlarged glandular tissue vs fatty tissue, but you can have both. There are ways to differentiate because true gynecomastia might feel rubbery or lumpy to the touch. Pain and sensitivity in the area can also be another symptom. Gynecomastia can affect individuals that are a normal weight not just someone overweight and is not responsive to diet and exercise. Pseudogyncomastia can be improved with weight loss.
Causes of Male Breasts
There are multiple potential causes of Hormone imbalances that can be one of the most common reasons for this condition whereas the normal estrogen to androgen balance becomes imbalanced with the female hormone estrogen leading to more fatty/glandular tissue. There can be other causes too and why a thorough consultation is necessary to evaluate the best mode of treatment. This is generally not a serious problem and can affect both men and boys. True gynecomastia can resolve on its own but if it persists medical assistance may help. Some of the other causes include:
- Obesity
- Anabolic Steroids
- Liver/Kidney disease
- Hyperactive thyroid
- Medications
- Cancer
Liposuction for the Treatment of Gynecomastia
For qualified candidates, liposuction is an excellent treatment for this condition having several advantages for the patient. Dr. Michalak prefers tumescent liposuction, which is the process of permanently removing the fatty tissue via a microcannula inserted under the skin. Before the procedure begins, tumescent solutions containing local anesthetic solution is infiltrated into the area. The anesthetic in the tumescent fluid is vasoconstrictor so very little blood is present in the procedure. Discrete very small holes are made in strategic locations, allowing for the cannula to be inserted so the fatty tissue can be removed. Careful attention is paid to the aesthetics improving the overall shape and appearance of the chest area. Advantages for the patient are:
- Quick recovery so the patient can return to work in a few days.
- Performed under local anesthesia, posing less risk to the patient
- Minimal to no scarring
- Tumescent Liposuction has a very high safety profile
About Dr. Michalak’s Experience
Dr. Michalak is a board-certified dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He is a dermatologic surgery, MOHS Micrographic Surgeon, member of the American Society of Lipo-Suction Surgery and trained with the founder of tumescent liposuction surgery. Dr. Michalak has performed thousands of liposuction procedures throughout his 20 + year career. Surgeries are performed in the office on an outpatient basis in Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology’s accredited surgical suite.