Have you begun to develop additional, fuller breast tissue? You may have a condition that affects countless men — gynecomastia. While gynecomastia can affect the self-esteem and well-being of the men that develop it, it can be comforting for affected individuals to explore their treatment options.

At eSSe Plastic Surgery, we offer male patients affected by gynecomastia access to the diagnostic services and surgical treatments needed to correct it. Contact our Fort Lauderdale office today to schedule a consultation appointment!

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition that affects newborns, boys going through puberty, and older men, and is characterized by the swelling of breast tissue. This condition can develop in one or both breasts and may affect the breasts in an uneven manner. While gynecomastia poses no medical risk to patients, it can be difficult to deal with psychologically. Fortunately, there are a number of different medications and surgeries available to correct this excess breast tissue.

What Causes It?

Excess breast tissue can begin to develop in men when the amount of testosterone in their bodies decreases in relation to the amount of estrogen. This hormone imbalance may be caused by:

• Natural hormonal changes. Hormones control the development of sex characteristics in men and women. The levels of these hormones tend to fluctuate a few weeks after birth, during puberty, and in old age. Because of this, men at these stages of life are particularly prone to developing this condition.
• Medications. Many medications, particularly those that can cause fluctuations in testosterone and estrogen levels, can lead to the development of gynecomastia.
• Street drugs and alcohol. Alcohol, amphetamine, heroin, methadone and marijuana use can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing this condition.
• Health conditions. Gynecomastia has been linked to a number of health conditions that affect a man’s normal balance of hormones. These conditions include hypogonadism, aging, tumors, kidney failure, hypothyroidism, liver failure, cirrhosis, and malnutrition.

What Treatments are Available for Gynecomastia?

While most instances of gynecomastia surgery will subside on their own over time, treatments are available for individuals who would like to see results sooner, or who’s cases of gynecomastia have persisted over long periods of time.

At eSSe Plastic Surgery, our leading physicians and surgeons, Dr. Tracey Stokes and Dr. Laura Sudarsky, both have extensive experience diagnosing and treating gynecomastia. During your consultation appointment, they will ask you about your medical history and evaluate your condition in order to decide which treatment methods your gynecomastia treatment will respond best to.

Don’t let gynecomastia impact your life any longer; contact eSSe Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation appointment at our Fort Lauderdale office, and take the first step towards the new you!