Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia and hair loss are two common conditions that can affect men. While they are not directly related, there are some factors that can increase the risk of developing both conditions. August in hair loss awareness month.
One common factor is genetics. Men who have a family history of either gynecomastia or hair loss are more likely to develop both conditions.
Another factor that can increase the risk of developing both conditions is hormonal imbalance. Both gynecomastia and hair loss can be caused by an imbalance of testosterone and estrogen hormones.
Some medications can also increase the risk of developing both conditions.
Finally, lifestyle factors such as stress and obesity can also increase the risk of developing both conditions.
It is important to note that not all men who have gynecomastia will also experience hair loss, and not all men who experience hair loss will also develop gynecomastia. However, there are some factors that can increase the risk of developing both conditions.
WHAT IS GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY?
Gynecomastia is a condition in which there is an enlargement or swelling of breast tissue in males. It is due to extra fatty tissue that can resemble female-like contours. This condition can be devastating and cause men to avoid social activities, physical contact with others, and wear baggy clothes.
Surgery to correct gynecomastia involves removal of unwanted breast tissue whether through liposuction and/or direct excision. It helps contour your chest to the underlying pectoralis muscle.
WHAT CAUSES GYNECOMASTIA?
Gynecomastia is most commonly caused by imbalance of estrogen and testosterone hormones. Gynecomastia naturally occurs after childbirth, at puberty, and mid-life and beyond. Other causes may include obesity, endocrine disorders, and medications including anabolic steroids and marijuana.
WHAT IS YOUR TREATMENT APPROACH TO LIPOSUCTION?
The type of surgery performed depends on the tissue type, location, amount of tissue you have, skin elasticity, medical history, and other factors. Dr. Chen will assist you when choosing whether liposuction alone or liposuction with direct excision of breast tissue is needed for your body and personal goals.
Liposuction is done through small port sites that are 1 cm or less. Tumescent fluid is then placed into your body to help minimize bleeding, help with pain control, and open up the chest tissue. A small tube (known as a cannula) is inserted under the skin, and Dr. Chen uses the cannula to break up the fat and suction out the breast tissue.
There are several different ways to vacuum out the fat. They include traditional suction-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, and power-assisted liposuction. Dr. Chen has extensive training and experience in all three techniques.
If direct excision is needed, usually a peri-areolar incision is used to remove fibrous breast tissue that may not be able to be removed by liposuction alone.
Once this is completed, the incision is closed and a compression garment is applied to the treated area.
WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING LIPOSUCTION?
Liposuction is performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the anticipated size of area treated. It is an outpatient procedure.
WHAT IS THE POST OPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY LIKE AFTER LIPOSUCTION?
A compression garment will be worn to help the skin readjust itself to its new contour. It will help create a smoother body and avoid loose skin. They also help reduce swelling. Compression garment should be worn for a minimum of four weeks. Some patient may elect to have lymphatic massage to help reduce swelling. Drains may be used to reduce swelling and assist in removing the fluid your body produces after surgery. Drains are typically removed after 1 week.
You will be given antibiotics during and after surgery to help reduce the risk of infections and pain medications to minimize post-operative discomfort. You will return to the office 1 day after surgery for a close monitoring of your progress
The stitches will be removed at your 1-week follow-up appointment, and you should be able to return to work after one week.
WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY?
You will have a more contoured, smoother, and shapely chest that compliments your underlying pectoralis muscles.
IS GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY RIGHT FOR ME?
Do you wear baggy clothes to hide your breasts?
Do you avoid physical contact with your chest?
Are you self conscious of your body image with your shirt off?
Do you have puffy nipples, saggy breast, or rounded chest?
If any of these questions are yes, you may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery. Candidates for gynecomastia surgery should have breast sizes that have remained stable over the last year. In addition, other causes of gynecomastia that may be correctable must be ruled out first.
YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR. CHEN
Dr. Chen will create a personalized treatment plan after a comprehensive physical examination and a detailed discussion regarding your personal goals. At this time a decision will be made regarding how much and where chest tissue will be removed. A thorough medical history will also be obtained to ensure surgery is a safe option for you. Dr. Chen will discuss all surgical and non-surgical options so that you can make an informed decision about what is the right choice for you.