Non-Surgical Gynecomastia
Bellevue & Kirkland

Non-Surgical Gynecomastia Bellevue & Kirkland

Men are increasingly seeking out cosmetic surgery. While many surgeries exist to help women enhance their bodies, few surgeries cater almost solely to men. Gynecomastia is one of these surgeries that mainly treats male patients. With that said, viable non-surgical options have not been reliably available in the Bellevue area until now. The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery offers the best non-surgical gynecomastia treatment solutions in Bellevue and Kirkland.

Understanding Gynecomastia & Its Causes

Gynecomastia is a benign condition where a male’s chest develops more fat or tissue than typical, sometimes resembling female breasts. While weight gain may contribute to gynecomastia, it is rarely the only cause. Most commonly, reduced testosterone levels or other hormone fluctuations may cause excess breast tissue growth in men. This may happen naturally during puberty or with age. Gynecomastia that appears during puberty often resolves within a few years.

The severity of gynecomastia varies. Some patients may see what is sometimes called “fake gynecomastia” where small portions of fat or tissue collect behind the nipples. This may not be true gynecomastia or a very mild form of it. Either way, it is often addressed the same way. More severe gynecomastia may create the appearance of “man boobs,” and come with symptoms such as tenderness and swelling.

Other possible causes or contributing factors of gynecomastia development may include:

• Thyroid conditions
• Some prescription medications
• Illegal use of drugs
• Anabolic steroids
• Certain medical conditions
• Obesity
• Genetics or genetic disorders
• Exposure to phthalates or lead
• Aging
• Increased estrogen levels (whether due to a medical condition or medication)

Traditional Treatments For Gynecomastia

Traditionally, mild cases of gynecomastia may be treated first with medical interventions or may not be treated at all. Severe gynecomastia—if it does not respond to weight loss or other treatments—may require surgery. Below are some of the most common treatments for gynecomastia:

• Hormone Therapy: If a hormone imbalance is present, hormone therapies in combination with other treatments may help reduce the breasts back to their natural size. 
• Treatment For Other Conditions: Medical conditions such as thyroid issues, Klinefelter syndrome, and cystic fibrosis can all contribute to gynecomastia formation. Treating these conditions may help alleviate gynecomastia symptoms.

• Medication Switches: Certain medications used to treat other conditions may cause gynecomastia. While rare, if this does occur, switching to a different medication can often help the gynecomastia subside.
• Lifestyle Changes: Improving diet and exercise habits may help reduce gynecomastia, even if it does not fully resolve it. Patients should also examine other aspects of their lifestyle and consider quitting smoking and taking recreational drugs because these can contribute to gynecomastia.
• Liposuction: Removing fat via liposuction can help sculpt the shape of the chest to create a more masculine appearance. It may also aid other treatments by removing stubborn pockets of fat.
• Double Incision Surgery: Using an incision on either side of the chest, a surgeon removes skin, fat, and glandular tissue to eliminate gynecomastia. It is effective but does come with possible risks and downsides not seen with other treatments. Surgery is still the best treatment available in many severe cases.

Innovative Non-Surgical Gynecomastia Treatment In Bellevue

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery now offers a new non-surgical treatment option for patients with mild gynecomastia. Using injections of deoxycholic acid—known under the brand name Kybella—Dr. Jonov can dissolve small amounts of fat to reduce the projection of the chest.

The injections are given throughout at least three sessions. Usually, between two to four vials are administered at each treatment. Over time, the deoxycholic acid reduces fat and glandular tissue on the chest. The procedure is most effective for patients with low to moderate amounts of fat on their chest and who have relatively good skin quality.

Benefits & Risks

All gynecomastia treatments come with benefits and risks that patients should consider. Non-surgical gynecomastia treatment with Kybella offers benefits like:

• Reduces chest fat
• Addresses stubborn fat resistant to diet and exercise
• Permanently removes fat
• Deoxycholic acid found naturally in the body
• Reduces fullness around the nipples
• Low risk
• No anesthesia required
• Minimal downtime and aftercare
• No scarring
• More cost effective than gynecomastia surgery
• Performed by expert injectors in a clinical setting

The risk of non-surgical gynecomastia in Bellevue is relatively low because there is no need for general anesthesia or incisions. Patients should still understand that there are risks associated with the procedure, even if complications are rare. Possible risks include:

• Infection
• Indentations
• Loose skin
• Minimal result
• Prolonged or severe side effects

Candidates

The best candidates for deoxycholic acid gynecomastia treatment are men with mild gynecomastia who are in generally good health. Dr. Jonov will evaluate patients for candidacy during their consultation appointment. This will involve reviewing the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and existing gynecomastia.

Patients with significant tissue or loose skin are usually not good candidates for this procedure. They may consider traditional gynecomastia surgery and can discuss all of their options with Dr. Jonov.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Deoxycholic Acid Work?

Deoxycholic acid is naturally found in human bile. It helps break down fat cells from the foods we consume. When injected in a purified and concentrated form into a targeted area, it can help break down extra fat. While FDA-approved for use under the chin, it does work on other small pockets of fat across the body. Injecting Kybella for gynecomastia is an off-label use, but still safe and low risk.

What Does Aftercare Look Like After A Non-Surgical Gynecomastia Procedure?

Patients should take it easy for the rest of the day following their deoxycholic acid injections. They may return to work if they have a sedentary job. Protocol may differ between patients, but may include:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise
• Wearing breathable clothing
• Limit alcohol
• Avoid unnecessary touching of the area
• Skip showering the night of the procedure

How Do I Tell If I Have Gynecomastia? 

Gynecomastia is best diagnosed by a medical professional. But, patients may be able to discern whether they have it by looking at and feeling their chest. Often, gynecomastia starts as excess fat beneath the nipple until the breasts begin to enlarge. The two sides are frequently asymmetrical. Not all patients experience pain, tenderness, or swelling, but this can be a sign of gynecomastia.

How Much Is Non-Surgical Gynecomastia In Bellevue? 

Non-surgical gynecomastia treatment with deoxycholic acid starts at $1800 for three sessions spaced four weeks apart. Some patients may benefit from additional sessions. Patients will receive a customized price quote at their consultation.

The Best Non-Surgical Gynecomastia Treatment At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery is a leading cosmetic surgery practice and medical spa located in Lynnwood, WA. Near the convergence of I-5 and I-405, the office is easily accessible from Bellevue, Kirkland, and Seattle. Consultations can take place at our facility or online through Skype or Facetime.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 425-775-3561. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, and Price Simulator.