Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Male Breast Cancer Treatment
and Male Breast Reduction Surgery
October 1, 2014 – Cincinnati, Ohio – “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is upon us, and the colorful pink ribbons are everywhere – serving as a constant reminder of the importance of early detection and also how far we have come in breast cancer prevention and also with survival rates,” says Dr. Jon Mendelsohn of Advanced Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center.
Mendelsohn continues, “What many people don’t realize is that men make up 1% of all cases of breast cancer cases. That’s approximately 2,360 cases per year. Not a staggering number, but one that should not be dismissed altogether.”
He goes on, “Male breast cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the breast. It can be caused by a number of factors – including radiation exposure, high levels of estrogen, inherited gene mutations or a family history of breast cancer. It is usually detected on men between the ages of 60-70 years of age, and those diagnosed with breast cancer usually have lumps that can be felt by themselves and their health care professionals. Because most men have very little breast tissue as compared to women, it is much easier to feel these small lumps or tumors. And in the event that they men have do have too much tissue, we can actually reduce their breast size through a Gynecomastia, which I will address momentarily.
Male breast cancer patients are typically treated with either a modified radical mastectomy, or a breast conserving and less invasive treatment called a lumpectomy. Even if all visible cancer is removed at the time of the surgery, the patient may also be given radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy and bone-directed therapy after surgery to kill any remaining cancerous cells.”
Mendelsohn continues, “As eluded to previously, some men may have condition known as Gynecomastia, over-developed or enlarged breasts, affectionately referred to as ‘man boobs.’ This condition can occur at any age, and can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity, obesity, or the use of certain drugs. Those suffering from Gynecomastia often suffer from severe emotional distress and low self-esteem, and often may avoid certain physical activities and intimacy in order to hide their condition.”
Gynecomastia is characterized by excess localized fat, excess glandular tissue development, and sometimes excess breast skin. It can be present unilaterally (one breast) or bilaterally (both breasts).
Says Mendelsohn, “In cases where Gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques may be used. However, excision or surgical techniques are recommended where glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed in order to treat the condition. The nipple may also need to be removed or repositioned when we do the excision surgery known as a reduction mammaplasty. We can actually reduce the breast size, and flatten and enhance the chest contours. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to treat a patient with both liposuction and excision.”
Dr. Jon E. Mendelsohn is double board certified by both the American Board of Facial & Reconstructive Surgery and also the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery. He serves as the medical director of Advanced Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center’s new, state-of-the-art facility located in the first floor of the Rookwood Tower at 3805 Edwards Road in Hyde Park. For more information, call 513-351-FACE, or visit www.351face.com.
