Treatment Options For Gynecomastia, Also Known As Puffy Nipples Or Man Boobs

Gynecomastia is the term to describe male breast enlargement. Enlargement can take different forms from enlargement of the nipple with descriptions such as “puffy nipple,” to large excesses of the entire breast.

Gynecomastia is seen most commonly in boys in their early teens as well as in older men and is usually due to hormonal changes that can occur at these times. Most cases that develop at the time of puberty improve or resolve over the next few years. This enlargement, at any age, can cause emotional discomfort and impair self-confidence. It often makes it difficult for males to participate in certain physical activities or find clothing that doesn’t reveal their prominent chest.

Males with gynecomastia may benefit from breast reduction surgery. Operations to reduce the male breast vary based on whether the excess tissue is dense glandular tissue or more loose fatty tissue. Liposuction alone is appropriate for primarily fatty tissue excess while open excision will address the more dense glandular tissue. Sometimes a combined approach of liposuction and open excision is appropriate. If the enlargement is significant, some portion of skin may also need to be removed, thereby restoring the masculine contour of the chest.

The amount of excess tissue also helps determine whether the procedure can be done in the office under local anesthetic or if general anesthetic in the surgery center would be recommended. Either way the operation is a same-day surgery, taking approximately one hour to complete.

Postoperative restrictions are minimal, with a return to work within one to two days, and strenuous activities in two to three weeks. Patients are asked to maintain a compressive garment in place over two to three weeks to encourage the swelling to decrease. Other recommendations are to avoid direct sun exposure for at least six months.

The average cost of gynecomastia surgery is $3,196. That is the national average surgeon/physician fee according to 2013 statistics from American Society of Plastic Surgery.

Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Marion to discuss your specific options, get answers to your questions, and get to know Dr. Marion and his staff.

801-334-8554

You may also click here to see before and after pictures of Dr. Marion’s gynecomastia patients.