What Is Gynecomastia and Why Does It Happen?

If your chest feels fuller than it used to, or doesn’t match the rest of your body, it can leave you with a lot of questions. Whether it’s a recent change or something that’s bothered you for years, it’s worth a closer look. 

Dr. Michael Chiaramonte sees men with the same concern every week at Bella Cosmetic Surgery in National Harbor, Maryland, near Alexandria, Virginia. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Chiaramonte can flatten your chest with male breast reduction surgery.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia refers to an increase in glandular breast tissue in males. This is different from chest fullness caused by weight gain or fat. It’s a medical condition, not just a cosmetic concern. 

Even men who are otherwise in good shape can feel self-conscious about gynecomastia. It’s not harmful, but it can be uncomfortable, especially in fitted clothes or situations where you’d normally go without a shirt.

This excess breast tissue doesn’t go away with diet or exercise, but fortunately, there are surgical options to create a more masculine-looking chest.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia usually develops due to a shift in hormone levels, often involving a drop in testosterone or a rise in estrogen. Several factors may contribute to this imbalance, including:

• Hormonal changes during puberty or aging
• Certain medications, such as anabolic steroids, anti-androgens, antidepressants, or medications for heart conditions
• Substance use, including alcohol and marijuana
• Underlying health conditions, such as thyroid disorders or liver disease
• Idiopathic causes, where no clear reason is identified

A proper evaluation will help Dr. Chiaramonte determine what’s happening and decide whether treatment is needed.

How Is It Treated?

True gynecomastia often doesn’t respond to diet and exercise alone. Male breast reduction can remove the tissue that’s making the chest look enlarged.

During male breast reduction, Dr. Chiaramonte may use liposuction to remove excess fat through small incisions, or he may excise firm glandular tissue directly if it cannot be suctioned out. In some cases, both methods are used. The incisions are typically discreet and placed in natural folds or around the areola.

Explore Long-Term Solutions for Enlarged Male Breasts

Dr. Chiaramonte has performed this surgery for decades and will make sure he understands what you want. His focus is always on delivering results that feel right for your body. 

Call 301-567-6767 to schedule a consultation at Bella Cosmetic Surgery in National Harbor, near Clinton and Alexandria.