Gynecomastia is a traumatic condition affecting some men and is particularly common among bodybuilders. The good news is surgery to treat this condition has been shown to be successful among this demographic, offering hope to bodybuilders that have become dissatisfied with their appearance. A study that was published in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery has provided evidence that male breast reduction surgery offers positive results to athletes concerned about gynecomastia, both in the short and long-term.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by breast enlargement in men. It can also be accompanied by puffy nipples. While these symptoms are rarely a serious medical concern, it can lead to embarrassment and shame about their “man boobs” and reduced quality of life. There are a number of reasons why gynecomastia might develop, including hormonal imbalances, underlying medical conditions and some types of medication. While excess fat can sometimes contribute to the look of enlarged breasts, breast gland tissue is the primary cause.
Extra glandular tissue cannot be completely removed with exercise alone. In the case of bodybuilders, the problem often begins with their use of anabolic steroids, which impact the hormonal balance in the body (particularly with an increase in estrogen levels) and lead to enlarged breast tissue. Certain medications and dietary supplements have also been found to affect hormone levels and increase the risk of developing gynecomastia.
How is Gynecomastia Treated?
Surgical breast reduction is the most effective method for treating gynecomastia in bodybuilders. However, the surgical technique must be carefully considered, since bodybuilders are particularly sensitive to their appearance and do not want much visible scarring after their procedure.
Male breast reduction in body builders can be performed using minimal incisions typically located around the areola, where post-surgical scarring can be nearly invisible. In addition, plastic surgeons have learned that removal of all of the glandular breast tissue inside the breast is usually necessary to prevent a recurrence of the condition. Patients must stop working out for a prescribed period of time before the surgery and can ease back into workouts very slowly after the procedure to prevent complications.
Results from the Study
The recent study looked at 1,073 men that underwent gynecomastia surgery and followed those men for five years after the procedure. Many patients surveyed were “extremely satisfied” with their final results, both immediately following the procedure and in the years after. After the removal of excess tissue and fat, their chest muscles were more pronounced and they enjoyed a flatter chest that accentuated their athletic physique. The majority of the test subjects also returned to their use of anabolic steroids, usually without further complications.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are embarrassed by the look of your chest due to excessive breast growth, Dr. Kahlil Andrews can help. Dr. Andrews has extensive experience in male breast reduction, offering men a more masculine body profile and increased self-confidence and self-esteem. To learn more about this procedure, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 319-409-6420.
