How much does male breast reduction cost?
Excessive male breast tissue (gynecomastia) is a medical problem that is best handled by an experienced surgeon. For this reason, Dr. Brown suggests you focus on how to get your best results rather than costs. To make male breast reduction surgery fit your budget, The Loudoun Center for Plastic Surgery takes several payment methods. We can also help you locate low-interest financing. While surgery for gynecomastia is generally not covered by insurance, it is worth contacting your insurer to check.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia develops in men when there is an imbalance in the hormones. In most cases, gynecomastia is connected to the use of androgens and anabolic steroids. It may also be the result of using illegal drugs, including marijuana or heroin. Gynecomastia might also be triggered by some medical conditions (hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and tumors), plus some medications (highly active antiretroviral therapy for AIDS, chemotherapy, and anti-anxiety medications).
How can I tell if I have gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs in men when there is an overgrowth of breast tissue in the chest, which can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. Some patients might have pseudogynecomastia (false gynecomastia) so Dr. Brown suggests patients lose weight by following an exercise plan and a healthy diet before considering surgery. If you have excess breast tissue when you are at a healthy weight, Dr. Brown will perform a physical exam and order diagnostic tests. This might include a mammogram, blood tests, or a biopsy to look for other causes, like an infection of the breast tissue (mastitis) or cancer.
Can gynecomastia be treated with exercise or pills?
Male breast reduction surgery is the most effective treatment for gynecomastia. Currently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not approved any medications for the treatment of gynecomastia. Although they are not approved for gynecomastia, a few breast cancer medications (Raloxifene or Tamoxifen) might give you minimal improvements. Upper body weight training to increase the pectoral muscles will not reduce the excess breast tissue and could even make the breasts look bigger.
Will this fix puffy or pointy nipples?
Puffy or pointy nipples may be caused by glandular gynecomastia. If you are concerned about this, be sure to tell Dr. Brown at your consultation. He will personalize your surgical plan to select the best incision pattern and technique to improve your nipples. Oversized areolas may also be corrected in surgery for gynecomastia. It is crucial that you be honest with Dr. Brown about all your concerns and wants during your initial consultation so he can make sure you get the results you want.
