The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Gynecomastia
in Florida

Unwanted male breast enlargement, known as gynecomastia, can be quite distressing and often makes men extremely self-conscious. Men frequently try to conceal their gynecomastia with compression shirts, multiple shirts, or loose fitting clothing. American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certified FSPS member surgeons can treat gynecomastia with relatively straightforward surgery and can help to restore your confidence in the appearance of your chest.

Drew Schnitt, MD

What is Gynecomastia?

True gynecomastia is enlargement of breast tissue gland in a male which can give men a more feminine appearance of the chest. This may affect one or both sides and may be asymmetrical or uneven. Pseudogynecomastia is when fat is deposited in the male breast, rather than excess glandular growth. This can happen to individuals who are struggling with excess weight. Often these can occur together (mixed gynecomastia).

True gynecomastia is usually caused by sex hormone imbalance between estrogen and testosterone where the estrogen levels are too high. This can be due to many reasons including:

Changes in hormones around puberty or with aging
Medication such as anabolic steroids, androgen blockers and certain types of antidepressants
Substance use including marijuana, amphetamine and alcohol
Diseases of the liver, kidneys, thyroid and as well as certain tumors
Excess fat which may cause increased estrogen levels

Gynecomastia may cause swollen or tender breast and glandular tissue. Nipple pain and discharge are less common but possible.

Gynecomastia workup requires a careful history and physical exam. Sometimes blood tests are needed to check hormone levels. Mammography and ultrasound may also be ordered.

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Gynecomastia Treatment

If your gynecomastia occurs during a puberty growth spurt, this often resolves on its own within a six to twelve month period. Sometimes is helpful for adolescents to see a plastic surgeon to examine them, observe them over time, and offer reassurance

Hormone imbalance can happen with estrogen receptor blocker medication such as Tamoxifen and Raloxifene. Aromatase inhibitors like anastrozole are used less frequently for hormonal imbalance and are often followed by an endocrinologist. Discontinuing anabolic steroid use or certain medication as well as the treatment of liver and kidney disease may help to reverse the process, but sometimes stopping these changes are permanent and may require treatment. Seeing your board certified FSPS member surgeon is recommended to determine what the best course of action is for you.

Gynecomastia that doesn’t go away and is causing pain or psychological distress may be treated with lipocontouring where fat is removed with special surgical instruments called cannulas. Firm, rubbery cystic material frequently found under the nipple complex may require direct removal which can often be place to be well hidden. The use of ultrasonic liposuction or helium plasma may also help to break up and shrink the excess breast tissue and help tighten loose skin. More severe cases may need direct removal of the breast tissue and skin similar to a breast reduction. Carefully placed scars optimize your cosmetic result.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

If there is persistent pain or swelling or significant changes to one side, seek evaluation from a physician immediately. Firm tissue should be evaluated to rule out male breast cancer. You should also be seen by a medical professional if there is nipple discharge. Schedule a consultation with a surgeon who specializes in gynecomastia surgery if body image, psychological or emotional distress are issues and you would like to have a more masculine contour to the chest.

The Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

An initial consultation is performed where the surgeon will discuss the severity of the condition and the appropriate treatment course. During this time the procedure that is right for you will be explained in detail.

Day of Surgery

Usually, general anesthesia or intravenous sedation is required to adequately perform the surgery. Incisions are concealed as much as possible.

Immediate Aftercare

Your plastic surgeon will guide you each step of the way including incision and scar care, compression wear and follow up appointments. The general care is minimal and activity will be directed by your surgeon. Drain care may be required and will be taught to you and your caregivers. You may require deep lymphatic massage depending on your specific procedure and you will be guided through this.

Follow-Up Visits

Your first follow up visit may be as soon as the next day after surgery or within the next several days. You will then be seen for regular follow up visits until you are healed.

Recovery and Aftercare

After the procedure you will be monitored in a recovery suite. Most often you are discharged the same day.

You may be sore for the first 3 or four days and this significantly subsides by seven to ten days. Although, some residual soreness is expected for several months. There is no lifting allowed for the first six weeks, only steady gradual movement. By six weeks you should be feeling much better and getting back to regular routines such as training at the gym and doing sports.

Results: What to Expect

You will most often see significant change as soon as the dressings are removed and this usually improves as the swelling subsides. You can expect to see a much more male contoured and less projected chest improving with time.

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Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, gynecomastia surgery is not without risk, although, the risks are usually quite reasonable for the improvement obtained. Be certain to ask questions and ensure that you are well informed in advance.

In the case of surgery, the risks, benefits and alternatives will be explained by the physician. Decisions on the breast surgical approach will be discussed, including lipocontouring, nipple placement and incision placement.

Why Choose an FSPS Member Plastic Surgeon?

FSPS member surgeons are board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery with extensive experience and a commitment to safety and excellence. With accessible locations throughout Florida including Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, they provide personalized treatment plans and comprehensive follow-up support.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gynecomastia Surgery

Costs can vary depending on the technique, location, and surgeon experience. A personal consultation provides a tailored estimate and different patients require different levels of intervention.

Most patients return to work in 7–10 days. Full recovery, including resolution of swelling and final results, may take six weeks to months.

Gynecomastia surgery may be permanent, but like other procedures, weight gain, medication or steroid use, aging or hormonal changes could change your appearance over time.

Related Procedures & Treatments

Gynecomastia treatments often include body contouring options to enhance overall results and achieve a more sculpted appearance. These may involve lateral chest and axillary fold contouring to smooth and define the outer chest and underarm area, as well as abdomen and flank contouring to address excess fat or skin around the midsection. Additionally, upper, middle, and lower back contouring can help create a balanced, natural-looking silhouette that complements the chest area.

Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, FL, Broward County, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

What Should I Do Next?

Schedule a consultation with an FSPS member and discover how gynecomastia surgery can help you feel more confident in your skin.

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Gynecomastia in Florida