Steroid Induced Gynecomastia on Bodybuilder – Grade 2 Surgery
Posted by Dr. Dadvand August 13, 2024
Today, I want to walk you through an interesting case that sheds light on steroid-induced gynecomastia in Beverly Hills. This condition, while not uncommon, poses unique challenges. In the case of my patient, a bodybuilder with an impressive physique who has developed gynecomastia due to his past steroid use. He’s been off steroids for a while, which is essential before we proceed with any surgical intervention.
What is Steroid Induced Gynecomastia?
Steroid-induced gynecomastia is a type of breast tissue enlargement in men that occurs as a result of anabolic steroid use. These steroids, often used by bodybuilders to enhance muscle growth, can sometimes lead to unwanted side effects, such as an abnormal enlargement of breast tissue. This can be both physically and emotionally distressing for men.
Examining My Grade 2 Gynecomastia Patient’s Symptoms
Upon examination, you can see the effects of gynecomastia. When the patient flexes, there’s noticeable fullness around the areola, which shouldn’t be there in someone as lean as he is. This fullness is more pronounced on one side, indicating the imbalance often seen in steroid-induced cases. Additionally, when the patient raises his arms, the outline of the excess tissue becomes more visible.
Challenges of Bodybuilder Gynecomastia Surgery
Surgery for gynecomastia on bodybuilders presents several challenges:
- Some bodybuilders experience significant pain due to gynecomastia and addressing this pain is a critical part of the surgical plan.
- Bodybuilders typically have minimal excess fat to remove. It’s crucial not to take out any extra fat necessary for maintaining smooth skin contours. This balance is essential for a natural-looking result.
- To minimize the risk of gynecomastia recurring, especially if the patient resumes steroid use in the future, it’s important to be thorough in removing the excess glandular tissue. This helps in achieving a smooth and balanced chest contour.
The Surgical Procedure
In the operating room, my approach is purely excisional. This means I focus on removing the glandular tissue rather than using liposuction, as the latter could compromise the skin’s appearance. My surgical approach includes:
- Careful marking of the areas where tissue needs to be removed.
- Removing the glandular tissue while preserving the surrounding fat for a smooth appearance.
- Ensure the chest contour looks natural and consistent, and address any asymmetries or excess tissue.
You can watch the detailed procedure video on my YouTube channel.
Post-Surgery Pinch TestResults
After completing the surgery, the improvements are quite evident. The contour of the chest is significantly improved, and the excess tissue that once caused discomfort is now removed. The pinch test, which measures the thickness of the tissue, shows a much more even and natural result.
Ready to Explore Bodybuilder Gynecomastia Treatment Options?
If you’re dealing with steroid-induced gynecomastia or any other form of gynecomastia, it’s important to consult with a specialist who understands the nuances of your condition. Feel free to contact my office to schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Babak Dadvand. I am a double-board-certified plastic surgeon, together, we can discuss your options and work towards achieving the results you’re looking for.
