Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)
Gynecomastia Surgery in San Antonio: Treatment for Enlarged Male Breasts with Dr. Rokosz
Gynecomastia, or the development of excess breast tissue in men, is a common and often misunderstood condition that can lead to significant physical discomfort. Men experiencing gynecomastia may feel self-conscious about their appearance, avoid removing their shirts in public, or suffer from anxiety, frustration, or embarrassment, despite being in good physical shape.
Dr. Rokosz understands how sensitive this issue can be and offers a respectful, clinical, and compassionate environment where men can discuss their concerns and explore their treatment options without judgment. If you’re living with unwanted chest fullness or visible breast tissue, you don’t have to accept it as permanent; gynecomastia is treatable!
BREAST SURGERY PROCEDURES
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of breast tissue in males due to hormonal imbalances or other underlying factors. This condition can affect one or both sides of the chest and may involve excess glandular tissue, fat, or both.
It’s important to distinguish between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, which is caused by fat deposits in the chest due to weight gain or obesity. True gynecomastia requires more than just lifestyle changes or exercise. It often requires surgical treatment to remove the dense glandular tissue beneath the nipple and areola.
Gynecomastia Causes
There are several potential gynecomastia causes, ranging from hormonal shifts to medication side effects that need to be fully investigated prior to surgery:
Hormonal Imbalance
Estrogen and testosterone are present in all people, regardless of sex, but when estrogen levels are too high relative to testosterone, it can lead to the growth of male breast tissue. This may occur during:
Puberty (often temporary)
Aging
Endocrine disorders
Medications
Several prescription and over-the-counter medications are known to cause gynecomastia. These include:
Anabolic steroids and androgens
Anti-androgens (used for prostate enlargement or cancer)
Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications
Ulcer medications like cimetidine
Health Conditions
such as liver disease, kidney failure, and thyroid disorders.
Recreational substances
including excessive consumption of alcohol, marijuana, heroin, and caffeine.
The first step in treatment is identifying and addressing the root cause whenever possible.
Gynecomastia Symptoms
The most common gynecomastia symptoms include:
A firm or rubbery mass beneath the nipple and areola
One breast appearing significantly larger than the other
Swelling or tenderness in the chest
A visible rounded, protruding chest despite a lean body type
Nipple sensitivity or occasional discharge (rare)
Beyond the physical signs, the emotional and social effects of gynecomastia can be profound. Many men avoid activities like swimming, working out at the gym, or wearing fitted clothing. These emotional consequences are as important to address as the physical symptoms, and they’re often what motivate patients to seek a permanent solution through surgery.
Gynecomastia Treatment Options
While lifestyle changes and medical management can help in some cases, gynecomastia without surgery is generally not effective for patients with significant or long-standing glandular tissue. The most effective gynecomastia treatment options include:
LipOsuction
Addresses the excess fat along the chest. A small cannula is used to suction out fat through tiny incisions.
Direct Gland Excision Surgery
Addresses dense breast tissue that cannot be removed with liposuction. The glandular tissue is surgically removed from beneath the nipple . Typically combined with liposuction to treat the entire chest.
Mastectomy
Addresses excess fat, breast gland, and redundant skin for the most severe cases of gynecomastia. Involves repositioning the nipple to a more masculine position.
Am I a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Ideal candidates for gynecomastia surgery are men who:
Are physically healthy, non-smoker, and at a stable weight
Have realistic expectations for the results of their procedure
Have completed a thorough medical evaluation for possible causes of gynecomastia and address these issues before surgery to avoid recurrence
During your consultation, Dr. Rokosz will evaluate your chest anatomy, medical history, and any contributing factors to determine if you are a good fit for male breast reduction in San Antonio.
Gynecomastia Surgery Procedure Details
Before your procedure, you’ll meet with Dr. Rokosz for a thorough consultation to discuss your medical history, concerns, and goals. Gynecomastia surgery typically lasts 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of your case and you’ll go home the same day. General anesthesia is commonly used but mild gynecomastia may be addressed while awake in the office with well-injected numbing medication.
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Depending on your needs, the surgery may involve:
Liposuction to remove fatty tissue
Incision along the bottom of the areola to remove firm glandular tissue
Excision of excess skin with the incisions strategically placed along the border of the chest muscles (severe cases).
Sutures are placed internally and externally to support healing and minimize scarring
Moderate to severe cases may require drain placement to avoid fluid accumulation after surgery
Dr. Rokosz uses meticulous technique to ensure symmetry and a masculine chest contour while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissue.
Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery
Recovery after gynecomastia surgery is typically well tolerated but requires patience and attention to post-operative care. Most patients follow this general timeline:
Immediately after surgery
There will be swelling and bruising. Patients will experience leakage of remaining tumescent fluid. Pain is managed with prescribed medicationCompression garments are worn to support healing and reduce fluid retention for at least 6 weeks.
Week 1-2
Swelling and bruising improves. Drains, if present, are removed. Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities by 2 weeks.
Week 3-6
Increased mobility and exercise but typically no lifting, pushing, or pulling greater than 10lbs. Week 6+: Final results become more visible. Any activity restrictions are lifted. Compression garments may be discontinued if swelling has resolved.
Month 3+
Patients are typically fully recovered but will continue to heal up to one year.
Dr. Rokosz and her team will monitor your progress through follow-up visits and provide detailed care instructions for your incision sites, compression wear, and scar management to ensure a smooth recovery.
Gynecomastia Surgery Scars
While gynecomastia surgery offers a flatter, more masculine chest contour, it does involve small incisions that result in scars. Dr. Rokosz uses careful incision placement and closure techniques to keep scarring as minimal and discreet as possible.
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Common incision locations include:
Along the edge of the areola
This blends well with the natural color transition between the areola and surrounding skin.
Small incisions in the chest creases
Typically used for liposuction cannulas and placed in less noticeable areas.
Severe cases
Involve an incision along the border of the chest muscles and repositioning of the nipple areolar complex
Scars from gynecomastia surgery will fade over time with proper care. Most men feel the improvement in their chest shape and confidence far outweighs the presence of these discreet scars.
Gynecomastia Cost in San Antonio
The gynecomastia surgery cost in San Antonio can vary depending on several factors:
Whether liposuction, excision, or both are required
Operating facility and anesthesia fees
Compression garments and medications
Since male breast reduction is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance typically does not cover it. However, our office offers a range of financing options to help you manage costs. You’ll receive a personalized quote after your consultation with Dr. Rokosz, where she will evaluate your condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Gynecomastia Surgery Risks and Considerations
While gynecomastia surgery is considered safe and effective, it does carry potential risks like any surgical procedure. These may include:
Bleeding or infection
Changes in nipple sensation (temporary or permanent)
Asymmetry or contour irregularities
Poor wound healing or noticeable scars
Dr. Rokosz is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive experience in male chest contouring. She uses meticulous techniques to reduce risks and ensure smooth, natural-looking results.
Why Choose Dr. Rokosz for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Dr. Jennifer Rokosz is a trusted provider of male breast reduction in San Antonio, known for her expertise in male body contouring and precise surgical techniques. She understands that gynecomastia is not just a cosmetic concern, it’s a condition that can deeply impact a man’s self-esteem and daily life.
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Her patient-first philosophy, attention to masculine aesthetics, and commitment to natural results make her a trusted provider for men seeking long-term relief from this condition.
Patient Testimonials
Schedule Your Gynecomastia Consultation
You don’t have to live with the discomfort and self-consciousness of gynecomastia. Let Dr. Rokosz help you take the first step toward a more confident you.!
