Male Breast Reduction Surgery in Tampa, and the Nation, Rises

TAMPA, FL, January 03, 2013 (Press-News.org) Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center (http://www.castellanocosmeticsurgery.com) has announced that male breast reductions at its Tampa practice have become increasingly popular, following a similar nationwide trend. It is estimated that approximately half of the U.S. male population is affected in some way by gynecomastia.

"The stigma associated with gynecomastia, while decreasing, is still widespread, and that is so unfortunate for men suffering from this condition," explains Dr. Joseph J. Castellano, a cosmetic surgery specialist in Tampa. "Many men think male breast development is related to lack of exercise or poor diet. The condition also can be caused by hormone imbalances, and there is help out there for it."

Gynecomastia may be caused by a variety of factors, but most commonly manifests as a result of hormone imbalances, often as early as puberty. Much like breast development in females, when males experience breast tissue growth, they often experience nipple tenderness and other discomfort in the chest area. In addition to the physical symptoms of gynecomastia, there is also the emotional impact of male breast development to consider.

"These men are bullied and picked on for a condition they have little control over," says Dr. Castellano. "This can be a serious problem, especially for boys with male breast tissue entering adolescence. Without treatment, self-esteem often plummets and may lead to isolation or even more serious mental health problems like depression and social anxiety."

Teenage boys are not the only ones who develop gynecomastia, however. Studies indicate that up to 30 percent of those diagnosed with gynecomastia are older men. In fact, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reports that anywhere from 40 to 60 percent of American men have gynecomastia. With these numbers, it's not a surprise that more male breast reductions are being scheduled.

"Education of the public is essential in getting these men the help they need," says Dr. Castellano. "As more men learn that they can't get rid of their excess breast tissue with a crash diet or by building up the chest muscles, they're turning instead toward surgery."

Male breast reduction may be accomplished through liposuction alone if the breast development is due to excess fatty tissue. If glandular breast tissue needs to be removed, excision techniques will be required. Liposuction is less invasive, while excision may require a longer healing process, depending on the level of correction that is needed.

"Regardless of the specific techniques that are used, men rate their post-surgical satisfaction after cosmetic surgery in Tampa as very high," explains Dr. Castellano. "And it's no surprise, either. These men are just relieved to finally have a treatment that helps them feel better about themselves."

Castellano Cosmetic Surgery Center (http://www.castellanocosmeticsurgery.com) was founded in Tampa by Dr. Joseph J. Castellano, a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the American College of Surgeons, and the American Medical Association. A Tampa native, Dr. Castellano's unique, personalized, hometown approach has redefined the local cosmetic surgery scene in facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, and body contouring.