Gynecomastia Pittsburgh – Frequently Asked Questions

 
Dr. Wooten of Beleza Plastic Surgery answers the most frequently asked questions that she hears from Pittsburgh gynecomastia patients.

Q: What is Gynecomastia?

A: Gynecomastia is the overdevelopment of male breasts. The glandular tissue of the breast swells, usually in response to an excess of estrogen or a lack of testosterone. In addition to having enlarged breasts, men or boys with gynecomastia may notice their breasts feel rubbery or firm.
Gynecomastia can usually be diagnosed from a physical examination and medical history. In most cases, tests are not necessary. However, if the breast lump is unusually large, one-sided, tender, or hard and fixed, a biopsy may be done to rule out other problem.

Q: In what ways can one get rid of gynecomastia?

A:
Gynecomastia can disappear on its own in a year or more, as hormone levels correct themselves. However, be wary of pills and creams that claim to treat the condition. These are often expensive and do not deliver real results. Plastic Surgery is the only effective treatment for gynecomastia that will not go away.

Q: How do I know if I am a candidate for male breast reduction?

A: Treating the underlying cause of the gynecomastia may lead to improvement in the condition. Patients should talk with their doctor about revising any medications that are found to be causing gynecomastia. Following this, if the gynecosmastia continues to be a prominent problem, the only effective treatment option is surgery. This procedure, in which the excess breast tissue is removed, is safe for most patients who have struggled with gynecomastia and wish to correct it.

Q: Is male breast reduction to address gynecomastia covered by insurance?

A: For cases of gynecomastia, surgery is the only known physical remedy. In some cases the surgery can be covered by insurance. This is not standard, and varies according to each individual patient’s insurance provider and their specific condition.