Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD outlines the differences between true gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, including the various approaches to treating each condition.
Scottsdale, AZ — Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the development of enlarged breasts in males. Dr. Steven H. Turkeltaub—a board-certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale—explains that this condition is quite common and that it can be emotionally taxing for those who experience it.
Gynecomastia quite frequently develops in adolescent boys during puberty as a result of hormonal changes, but most of these cases resolve on their own as hormone levels stabilize. In some males, this breast enlargement persists even after puberty, which Dr. Turkeltaub notes can be associated with feelings of insecurity and embarrassment.
According to Dr. Turkeltaub, some other potential causes of gynecomastia aside from puberty include:
- Certain medications, especially those that impact hormone levels
- Anabolic steroid usage
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Recreational or illicit drug use, especially marijuana
- The natural aging process which may lead to hormonal fluctuations
- Genetics
- Specific medical conditions such as certain liver disorders
Some men may also develop breast enlargement as a result of weight gain or obesity. This condition, known as pseudogynecomastia, is caused by the enlargement of fatty tissue in the breasts. True gynecomastia, by contrast, is characterized by the development of excess glandular breast tissue and is commonly linked with hormonal imbalances.
Dr. Turkeltaub notes that there are a few effective options for treating abnormal male breast development and the optimal treatment depends on the type of gynecomastia a patient is experiencing. For those with true gynecomastia, Dr. Turkeltaub typically recommends male breast reduction surgery involving the direct surgical excision of excess glandular tissue. He further adds that this treatment can be combined with liposuction to enhance the aesthetic outcomes for those who also have excess fatty tissue.
For those experiencing pseudogynecomastia, Dr. Turkeltaub states that surgical intervention is generally required in most situations. Though following a healthy, calorie controlled diet along with an effective exercise regimen can lead to weight loss, a reduction in body fat and improved muscle tone, he often finds that this produces an inadequate resolution to breast enlargement. In order to properly address this issue, liposuction is typically necessary to directly remove excess fat and create a flatter, more sculpted and masculine chest contour.
For patients who believe that they have gynecomastia, Dr. Turkeltaub recommends consulting with a reputable plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who has considerable expertise in the treatment of this problem. By working with a qualified professional, he asserts that patients can increase the likelihood of obtaining an optimal result.
About Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD
Dr. Steven Turkeltaub is a board-certified plastic surgeon and the head of the Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He offers a comprehensive selection of cosmetic and restorative treatments with an emphasis on natural-looking results that elevate a patient’s confidence. Dr. Turkeltaub maintains active membership in a number of distinguished medical and professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the Aesthetic Society and the Arizona Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is strongly committed to excellence, and he has been named a “top plastic surgeon” on numerous occasions by both his patients and peers within the aesthetic community.
To learn more about Dr. Turkeltaub and his practice, visit turkeltaub.com, arizonabreast.com, and facebook.com/drturkeltaub, or find the practice on Instagram @drsteventurkeltaub. Dr. Turkeltaub is available for interview upon request.
Contact:
Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
8502 E. Princess Dr.
Suite 240
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 451-3000
Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com