Gynecomastia

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Houston and The Woodlands, TX

Written by Dr. Ryan Couvillion · Updated Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon · Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery · Diplomate, American Board of Surgery

Gynecomastia is a medical condition that affects the breast tissue of men, causing one or both breasts to become enlarged. The condition is caused by different factors, often including an imbalance of hormones in the body, which can occur during puberty, middle age, or later in life. While gynecomastia is not typically a serious medical concern, it can be both psychologically and physically uncomfortable. Constantly having to hide overly large male breasts underneath clothing can be difficult, and taking a shirt off in public places like the gym, beach, or swimming pool can become embarrassing.

Luckily, there are several options available to get rid of unwanted breast tissue for men. Dr. Ryan Couvillion is here to help you regain a more masculine chest—and your confidence. Dr. Couvillion will take the time to listen to your concerns and recommend the best course of action for you.

Don’t let gynecomastia define you. Call the Houston office at (713) 791-0700 or the Shenandoah office at (713) 587-6553. You can also fill out the contact form to get started.

About Gynecomastia

Have you ever found yourself feeling self-conscious about your chest? Do you feel like no matter how much you exercise or improve your diet, there are bulges that won’t budge? You’re not alone. If you’ve noticed a significant increase in breast tissue, you may be experiencing a condition called gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia comes from the Greek word “gynē,” meaning “woman,” and “mastia” refers to the breast. So, in essence, gynecomastia translates to “woman-like breasts” in men. “Man boobs” are often stigmatized and misunderstood, but the truth is that gynecomastia is a real medical condition that can affect men of all ages and body types. It’s estimated that during puberty, between 50% to 70% of boys experience breast enlargement, while 30% to 65% of adult men have excess breast tissue. [1] But, it’s important to recognize that gynecomastia is a relatively common issue that can be treated.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

Did you know that men have mammary glands? They aren’t functional, but high levels of estrogen can cause these glands to enlarge, causing the appearance of breasts. There are many different factors that can contribute to imbalanced hormones. Certain medications and underlying health conditions can affect a man’s ability to produce enough testosterone.

The use of anabolic steroids can also trigger the growth of glandular tissue in the male breast. [2] In some cases, discontinuing medications or drugs can cause the condition to resolve on its own, while in others it may require more aggressive treatment like surgery to remove the enlarged glands. However, glandular tissue isn’t always to blame for enlarged breasts. Overweight men can find themselves with breasts made of fat deposits. This condition is called pseudogynecomastia.

What are the Benefits of Male Breast Reduction?

If you’re struggling with gynecomastia, you may be all too familiar with the negative effects it can have on your self-esteem and quality of life. But the good news is that male breast reduction surgery can offer a wide range of benefits that go far beyond just improving the appearance of your chest. By removing excess breast tissue and restoring a more masculine chest contour, male breast reduction can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin, allowing you to participate more fully in activities and social situations without worrying about the appearance of your chest.

Male breast reduction can also have practical advantages. For example, if you’ve been struggling with skin irritation, chafing, or discomfort, male breast reduction can provide relief from these symptoms and improve your overall comfort level.

Whether you’re looking to improve your

  • Fitness
  • Personal relationships
  • Professional life

male breast reduction can offer a range of benefits that can help you live your best life.

Candidates for Gynecomastia Treatment

To determine the best course of action for treating your gynecomastia, Dr. Couvillion will first assess the composition of your breast tissue. If your breasts are primarily made up of fat, liposuction may be the optimal approach for reducing their size. In fact, Dr. Couvillion offers a minimally invasive technique that can be performed through small incisions, helping to minimize scarring and discomfort.

However, if your breasts are made of more glandular tissue, you may be a better candidate for a more extensive gynecomastia procedure. This can require larger incisions but can make significant, long-lasting improvements in the appearance of your chest.

To achieve the best possible results, it’s important to follow certain guidelines leading up to your surgery. This may include:

  • Making sure you are at a healthy weight
  • Ceasing use of certain supplements and medication prior to the procedure [3]
  • Undergo any ordered lab tests to rule out any underlying medical issues that could be contributing to your condition

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery is to schedule a consultation. Dr. Couvillion can assess your individual situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for achieving the confident, masculine chest you deserve.

Personal Consultation

Your personal consultation with Dr. Couvillion is the perfect opportunity to discuss your concerns and goals for male breast reduction and to learn more about your options for treatment.

During your consultation, Dr. Couvillion will take the time to listen carefully to your concerns and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. He will also evaluate your chest to determine the best approach for your individual needs, taking into account factors such as the size and density of your breast tissue and the quality of your skin.

But the consultation is more than just a medical evaluation. It’s also a chance for you to get to know Dr. Couvillion and his team, and to feel comfortable and confident in your choice of surgeon. We pride ourselves on providing a supportive, patient-centered approach to care, and we’re committed to ensuring that you feel fully informed and empowered throughout your treatment journey.

Whether you’re looking to finally achieve the masculine chest contour you’ve always wanted or simply seeking relief from the discomfort and self-consciousness of gynecomastia, Dr. Couvillion and his team are here to help. So why wait? Schedule your personal consultation today and take the first step toward a more confident, comfortable, and fulfilling life.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for male breast reduction surgery is an important step in achieving the best possible outcome and ensuring a smooth recovery. We take your safety and comfort seriously, and we’re committed to helping you prepare for your procedure in a way that is both effective and stress-free.

During your pre-operative consultation, Dr. Couvillion will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. These may include dietary and lifestyle changes, medication adjustments, and other steps to optimize your health and minimize the risk of complications.

We also encourage you to take the time to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the procedure. This may involve discussing your expectations and concerns with Dr. Couvillion and his team, as well as reaching out to friends and family for support. It’s normal to feel nervous or anxious before any surgery, but we’re here to help you feel as confident and prepared as possible.

Finally, we recommend that you take some time to prepare your home and your schedule for the recovery period. Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may need to take time off from work or other activities, and you may need assistance with household tasks during the early stages of recovery. By planning ahead and making arrangements in advance, you can minimize stress and ensure that you’re able to focus on your healing and recovery.

Your Surgical Procedure

When it comes to reducing the size of male breasts, there are several surgical techniques available that can help you achieve your desired results. Depending on the extent of your condition, Dr. Couvillion may recommend one of several different options.

Liposuction for Gynecomastia

For some patients, a simple liposuction procedure may be all that’s needed. This can be done through small, discreet incisions, and is an effective way to remove excess fatty tissue from the chest area. In many cases, this minimally invasive technique yields satisfying results.

Male Breast Reduction

Other patients may require a slightly more involved procedure, known as a breast reduction. This involves making a small incision just below the nipple, through which breast tissue can be removed. While this technique may leave a scar, it’s typically well-hidden and can yield significant improvements in the appearance of the chest.

In cases where there is a significant amount of breast tissue present, more aggressive surgical intervention may be necessary. This typically involves a breast reduction operation with more extensive incisions, which can lead to more visible scarring. However, for patients with larger breasts, this technique can be incredibly effective in achieving a flatter, more masculine chest.

The best surgical technique for each patient will depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of your condition and your individual aesthetic goals. That’s why it’s important to work closely with a skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Couvillion who can help guide you through the process and recommend the best approach for your unique needs.

Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery

In most cases, recovery after male breast reduction surgery is relatively easy and straightforward. For patients undergoing minimally invasive procedures, downtime is typically minimal, with many individuals able to return to work within a week of their surgery. However, some restrictions may apply depending on the extent of your procedure and how well you’re able to move your arms in the days following your surgery.

Although some discomfort is to be expected after any surgical procedure, the pain associated with male breast reduction is typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. For patients with a low tolerance for pain, Dr. Couvillion may also recommend the use of a long-acting local anesthetic, which can provide relief for up to three days.

What are the Results of Male Breast Reduction?

Male breast reduction surgery can significantly improve the appearance of the chest, helping to restore a more masculine contour and boost self-confidence. Depending on the extent of the procedure, patients may see a reduction in breast size and a flatter, firmer chest that is better proportioned to their body.

After male breast reduction surgery, it’s common for patients to feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin, allowing them to participate in activities and wear clothing that they may have felt self-conscious about in the past. This renewed sense of confidence can affect social interactions, romantic relationships, and more.

What is the Cost of Male Breast Reduction Surgery in Houston and The Woodlands, Texas?

Dr. Couvillion will go over the costs of your procedure with you after meeting with you for your personal consultation. Give us a call or fill out our contact form to learn more about getting a personalized cost estimate:

References

  1. NUTTALL FQ. Gynecomastia as a Physical Finding in Normal Men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 1979;48(2):338-340. https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem-48-2-338
  2. Barros ACSD de, Sampaio M de CM. Gynecomastia: physiopathology, evaluation and treatment. Sao Paulo Medical Journal. 2012;130(3):187-197. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1516-31802012000300009
  3. Goldman RD. Drug-induced gynecomastia in children and adolescents. Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien. 2010;56(4):344-345. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2860825/

About Dr. Ryan Couvillion

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon · Dr. Couvillion Plastic Surgery

Board certification
  • American Board of Plastic Surgery (verify)
  • American Board of Surgery (verify)
Education and training
  • Bachelor of Science, Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
  • Master of Science, Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
  • Doctor of Medicine, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
  • General Surgery Residency, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
  • Fellowship, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital
Hospital affiliations
  • Houston Methodist Hospital
  • The Woman’s Hospital of Texas
  • First Street Surgical Hospital
  • River Oaks Hospital
Memberships
Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
Awards
Inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
NPI
1760706774
Offices
Houston · Shenandoah

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