Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement of male breast tissue. While it can occur at any age, it becomes increasingly prevalent among seniors due to various factors, including hormonal changes, medications, and age-related health conditions.
In this comprehensive overview, we will talk more about what gynecomastia is, how aging can result in gynecomastia, treatment options, risks associated with surgery, frequently asked questions, and more.
At the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, we are here to help get you going in the right direction. Schedule an in-person or virtual consultation today to meet with our doctors.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia refers to the development of enlarged breast gland tissue in males. It is caused by an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and testosterone, leading to the proliferation of glandular breast tissue. This condition can manifest as a small amount of extra tissue around the nipples or as significant breast enlargement, resembling female breasts.
It is also possible that male breasts develop due to excess fatty tissue (either in addition to the gland tissue, or a combination of both). Our doctors at the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center will walk you through your personalized treatment plans based on your condition.
How Aging Affects Men
As men age, hormonal fluctuations become more common, which can contribute to the development of gynecomastia. Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, while estrogen levels may remain relatively stable or even increase due to factors such as excess body fat and decreased liver function.
Additionally, certain medications commonly prescribed to seniors, such as hormone therapies, antidepressants, and antiandrogens, can further disrupt hormonal balance and increase the risk of gynecomastia.
Moreover, age-related health conditions such as hypogonadism, liver disease, and thyroid disorders can also predispose seniors to gynecomastia. These underlying medical issues can interfere with hormone metabolism and secretion, exacerbating hormonal imbalances and promoting breast tissue growth.
While there are many causes of gynecomastia, there are just a few surgical treatment options that can help solve the condition for good. The next section will dive into more detail about these and more.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for gynecomastia vary depending on the severity of the condition, underlying causes, and individual preferences.
In seniors, conservative approaches such as lifestyle modifications and medication adjustments may be initially recommended to address underlying hormonal imbalances and minimize breast tissue enlargement. Weight management through diet and exercise can also help reduce excess fat deposits and alleviate gynecomastia symptoms.
However, for seniors who experience significant discomfort or psychological distress due to gynecomastia, surgical intervention may be considered.
Surgical procedures such as liposuction, excision of gland tissue, or a combination of both can effectively remove excess breast tissue and reshape the chest contours. These procedures are performed by our board-certified plastic surgeons with expertise in gynecomastia correction.
Risks Associated with Surgery
While surgical intervention can provide satisfactory outcomes for many seniors with gynecomastia, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with these procedures.
Seniors may face heightened surgical risks due to age-related factors such as impaired wound healing, reduced skin elasticity, and underlying medical conditions.
Prior to undergoing gynecomastia surgery, seniors should undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess their overall health status and suitability for the procedure. Our qualified and experienced plastic surgeons can tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs and minimize the risks associated with surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gynecomastia becomes more prevalent with age, affecting approximately one-third of older men. It is often attributed to hormonal changes, medication use, and age-related health conditions.
In some cases, mild gynecomastia may resolve on its own, especially if it is caused by temporary hormonal fluctuations. However, persistent or severe gynecomastia usually requires medical intervention to address underlying causes and alleviate symptoms.
Non-surgical treatments such as hormone therapy, medication adjustments, and lifestyle modifications may be effective in managing gynecomastia symptoms, particularly in seniors with mild to moderate cases. However, these approaches may not provide permanent results and are often less effective for significant breast enlargement.
The recovery process following gynecomastia surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and individual healing characteristics. Seniors can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial weeks after surgery, with gradual improvement over several months. It is essential to follow post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon and attend follow-up appointments for optimal results.
While gynecomastia surgery is generally safe and well-tolerated, long-term complications such as scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry may occur in some cases. Seniors should discuss potential risks and outcomes with our surgeon before undergoing any surgical procedure.
Gynecomastia is a common and often bothersome condition that affects many seniors. Understanding the underlying causes, treatment options, and associated risks is essential for effectively managing gynecomastia and improving quality of life in older men. By consulting with our qualified healthcare professionals and understanding if you are a gynecomastia candidate, seniors can address gynecomastia symptoms and regain confidence in their physical appearance.
Reach Out Today
Gynecomastia surgery for seniors offers a transformative solution for men looking to address the physical and emotional challenges of enlarged breasts. By removing excess tissue and sculpting a more masculine chest contour, this procedure can help individuals regain confidence in their appearance and embrace their newfound sense of self.
For those seniors considering gynecomastia surgery, it’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in male breast reduction procedures. And at the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, we are here to help.
The New Jersey Gynecomastia Center covers the tri state area and beyond. Just some of the main areas of service include:
- Newark
- Jersey City
- Edgewater
- Elizabeth
- Hackensack
- Westchester County
- Manhattan
- Staten Island
- Out of Town Patients
- And More!
If you believe you may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery or would like to learn more about our services, we invite you to schedule a free in person or virtual consultation and take the first step.
Do you have more questions? Check out some of the most frequently asked gynecomastia questions.
At the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center, we’re all about giving you top-notch care from start to finish. From your very first consultation to your recovery and beyond, we’re here for you every step of the way. We’re honored to be entrusted with your care, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our team, led by board-certified gynecomastia plastic surgeon specialists, is dedicated to providing the absolute best in patient care and outcomes. We understand that every person is unique, so we tailor our approach to suit your individual needs. Got questions? Ready to schedule your in-person or virtual consultation? Don’t hesitate to reach out to the New Jersey Gynecomastia Center today. We’re here to help!
New Jersey Gynecomastia Center
1567 Palisade Avenue #3A
Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024
(551) 201-1110