Why Male Breast Reduction Is Growing in Pittsburgh, and What You Need to Know
Why Male Breast Reduction Is Growing in Pittsburgh, and What You Need to Know
For the first time in history, men accounted for more than 40 percent of all aesthetic breast reduction procedures in the United States in 2015. American Society of Plastic Surgeons President Dr. David Song attributes this rise in popularity of male breast reduction to, at least partly, some big societal changes. ”As plastic surgery is becoming more common and accepted in men,” Song says, “we’re seeing more of them undergo procedures to tighten and tone problem areas, like the breasts.” (The American Society of Plastic Surgeons)
And as this trend continues to grow throughout the country, plastic surgeons in Pittsburgh are also seeing a growing number of men who wish to benefit from surgical procedures like male breast reduction. Here’s what’s behind the numbers.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a common endocrine disorder characterized by the enlargement of the breasts in boys or men. While it can be caused by a number of things, it’s typically related to an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and testosterone. Sometimes, especially when it occurs during puberty, gynecomastia can resolve on its own. Other times, and especially when it occurs in older men, the condition may be difficult to treat through diet and exercise alone. In these cases, many men seek a breast reduction to tighten and tone the body. (Mayo Clinic)
What’s Involved in a Male Breast Reduction Procedure?
The procedure involved in a male breast reduction removes excess fat and glandular tissue from the breasts through a small incision, resulting in a more masculine body shape and a flatter, more toned-looking chest. Sometimes, liposuction can be used to remove small pockets of excess fat in this area, but this is something that those considering a male breast reduction should discuss with an experienced plastic surgeon to ensure best results. (American Board of Cosmetic Surgery)
Why Is Male Breast Reduction Becoming So Popular in Pittsburgh?
For many of the same reasons that it is becoming more and more popular all over the country, male breast reduction in Pittsburgh is ever-increasing. Here are just some of the reasons why more Pittsburgh men are considering plastic surgery to reduce the size of their breasts:
- Obesity rates: While the obesity rates in Pittsburgh have decreased since 2010, the average percentage of people whose weights are in the healthy range have remained static, at about 35 percent. Thus, many people in Pittsburgh are trying to get fit and healthy, which may be an incentive for many men to consider having breast reduction surgery to help them achieve their ideal body shape. (Pittsburgh Today)
- This area can be difficult to treat through diet and exercise. Although obesity and weight gain can certainly play a role in the development of gynecomastia, these aren’t the only factors that can affect the size of male breasts. The condition may also be a result of genetics, hyperthyroidism, and even some medications. Because of this, weight in the chest area can be very difficult to lose through diet and exercise alone, making surgical breast reduction an appealing option for many men. (Mayo Clinic)
- Decreasing testosterone levels: Sometimes, gynecomastia simply comes along with the body’s natural aging process. As men age, their testosterone levels begin to decrease, which can contribute to some swelling of the breasts. This is another situation where even the most athletic man may have trouble losing weight in this area without surgical intervention. (Mayo Clinic Proceedings)
Why Choose Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh for Your Male Breast Reduction?
No matter the reason, those considering male breast reduction should choose a plastic surgeon for their procedure based on training, experience, and ability to thoroughly communicate. At Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology, our board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Heil is committed to providing a comfortable and private setting in our state-of-the-art facility, where he works with each patient individually to tailor a surgical procedure to suit his needs and goals.
Dr. Heil has been selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, reflective of his being considered by his peers and the Castle Connolly physician-led research team as among the top 10 percent of plastic surgeons in Pittsburgh. Castle Connolly is America’s trusted source for identifying top doctors, and partners with many national and regional magazines to provide information on top plastic surgeons to consumers.
If you’re considering a male breast reduction and would like more information, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil, please contact Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh at 724-264-3608.
The Bottom Line
Men and women alike want to look and feel their best throughout every stage of life, and some people find that plastic surgery procedures like male breast reduction can help them achieve this. As societal norms shift toward the acceptance of aesthetic procedures for men as well as women, the popularity of procedures like male breast reduction is skyrocketing, both in Pittsburgh and all across the country.