Up to 2/3 of adolescent males will experience abnormal breast growth sometime between the ages of 12 and 16. This may range from extremely mild to a significant change in breast size or shape. The breasts may become puffy, with large, tubular nipples. While puberty is the predominant time for Gynecomastia to develop, it can happen at any age. In the adolescent, though, this change can prove the most devastating to self-esteem and confidence.
The Cause of Adolescent Gynecomastia:
The normal change in hormone levels during puberty will trigger male characteristics to occur, such as hair growth. Sometimes, the delicate balance between the female hormones and male sex hormones will be temporarily unbalanced. Normally, these levels will readjust and return to the appropriate ratio within one to three years.
The Solution to Adolescent Gynecomastia:
Some cases of Gynecomastia are transitory, resolving on its own as the hormone levels return to normal. Other times, the extra fat and endocrine tissue will cause a permanent ‘puffiness’ to the chest. If the male breasts last longer than one year, or are causing emotional distress to the adolescent, parents should consider speaking with a cosmetic surgeon about a Male Breast Reduction.
The Male Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure designed to sculpt and smooth the chest, eliminating the ‘man boobs’. From an incision around the nipple, the surgeon can excise excess glandular tissue, or use Liposuction to remove unwanted fat. A combination of both techniques may be required to reach the desired result. The incisions are somewhat hidden within the normal chest contours, although the procedure does result in small, visible scarring. After surgery, teens will usually feel well enough to return to school within the next week.
Do you know a teen suffering from Gynecomastia? To discuss the potential benefits of a male Breast Reduction procedure, call Vitenas Cosmetic surgery at 713.574.4934. Dr. Vitenas is the leading male breast reduction in the Houston area; he has extensive experience working with all ages, including adolescents. Contact our office for more information today.