Gynecomastia, the medical name for male breasts, can often be treated through lifestyle changes such as increased and enhanced exercise. However, in many cases, gynecomastia will self-correct even without these efforts – particularly if the condition is linked to hormonal changes.
Common causes of gynecomastia include:
- Puberty
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Steroid use
- Marijuana use
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Weight gain
- General inactivity
Studies reported by the National Institutes of Health suggest that as many as 95% of gynecomastia cases that occur during puberty go away on their own within one to three years. When the condition is caused by lifestyle choices or weight gain, however, it may not be so forgiving.
How to Treat Gynecomastia
The most effective way to address stubborn cases of gynecomastia is with male chest reduction surgery. This procedure is used to eliminate stubborn fat deposits in the chest and, when necessary, to excise glandular tissue that can produce the appearance of breasts in men. Which method of chest reduction will be necessary for you is entirely dependent on factors unique to your anatomy. During your initial consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Brueck will carefully assess your frame to help you determine which technique will be required.
Once unnecessary fat and tissue have been removed from the chest, healthy lifestyle choices will be needed to maintain your results. This means:
- Eating a well-balanced diet with a focus on fresh vegetables and fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of intense aerobic exercise weekly
- Exercising each major muscle group at least once a week
You can, of course, do more than the bare minimum if you want to enhance your results. The more effort you put into sculpting your chest and abdomen, the more spectacular your male chest reduction results will be. We can provide individualized recommendations during your time in our care to help ensure you get the most out of your procedure.
To schedule your male chest reduction consultation at our Ft. Myers, Punta Gorda, or Cape Coral office, please call 239-939-5233 today.
