Do you often become the centre of cruel jokes because of your enlarged breasts, despite being male? Enlarged man boobs, or “moobs” as they are called, can be a very embarrassing situation, making you hesitant to be in social situations where you could become the butt of many jokes. Unfortunately, societal expectations are that men have a flat and firm chest, which is considered more masculine than a flabby one. This is why having enlarged male breasts can often lead to low self-esteem. Fortunately, breast reduction surgery by liposuction has proven to be a successful treatment to rectify gynecomastia.
WHAT IS GYNECOMASTIA?
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the enlargement of breast tissues in men. It is derived from the Greek word “gynec,” meaning female and “mastos” meaning breasts. It is defined by the presence of excess skin, localized fat and glandular tissue development. The excess of fat or glandular tissue could be present in one or both breasts.
Gynecomastia can lead to low confidence in men, which in turn could be the reason for lack of physical intimacy or avoiding any physical activity that might expose their condition. What you should know is that this condition can be successfully treated with male breast reduction surgery.
HOW DOES GYNECOMASTIA AFFECT BOYS?
According to data collected by National Institutes of Health, between 50% and 60% of adolescent boys suffer from gynecomastia. However, the reality is that a large percentage of people suffering from this condition do not seek to rectify it. Around the time of puberty, there can be some degree of temporary gynecomastia in almost all boys due to the hormonal changes occurring in the body at this time. However, the enlarged chest flattens by the time boys enter their 20s.
Male breast enlargement is usually caused by higher-than-normal amounts of estrogen being produced in the body. According to TeensHealth magazine, using illegal drugs, such as anabolic steroids, marijuana or heroine, can also lead to hormonal imbalance that causes gynecomastia.
HOW DOES GYNECOMASTIA AFFECT MEN?
Gynecomastia is even more common among older men. Studies have revealed that around 65% of adult men between the ages of 27 to 92 years have experienced gynecomastia. Experts like Dr. Ashutosh Misra say that the causes of gynecomastia in older men are quite different from those in adolescent boys. In men, this condition could be the result of certain other medical conditions, such as thyroid issues, tumours, cirrhosis or cancer. Gynecomastia can also result from the consumption of steroids and androgen, alcohol and street drugs, such as marijuana, heroine, methadone and more.
Although gynecomastia is not a critical condition, it may leave the person depressed. Some studies have suggested that men suffering from gynecomastia can have anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem and depression. Such emotional effects are more common among adolescent boys.
HOW IS GYNECOMASTIA TREATED?
The treatment of gynecomastia may depend on the age, health status of the individual and the root cause of the condition. In the case of pubertal gynecomastia, it is often self-limited in 75% to 90% of the adolescents, with the enlarged breasts flattening out in 1 to 3 years. If the cause of this condition is the use of recreational drugs, stopping the use of drugs can help send it into regression.
However, if the condition is persistent or if an adult male wishes to seek treatment, they can opt for male breast reduction surgery. In the male breast reduction process, the excess fat and skin around breast area and the glandular tissue are removed by liposuction and gland excision to create a flat and masculine chest contour, says leading Delhi-based cosmetic surgeon Dr. Ashutosh Misra.
If you have been the target of jokes because of your enlarged breasts, you can give your confidence a boost by seeking medical help. To achieve the best possible results and a more masculine shape, consult an experienced surgeon from a reputed clinic, like Enhance Clinic in Delhi, which uses scientific precision and aesthetic skill to help treat your gynecomastia.
