Gynecomastia (enlarged male breasts) is caused by excess fat, excess breast (glandular) tissue, or a combination of both. This can happen because of an imbalance of hormones in the male body. Patients complain of having female looking breasts (“man boobs”, “puffy nipples”). Gynecomastia can cause embarrassment and discomfort, especially when shirtless or wearing fitted shirts. Although physically harmless, the emotional consequences and feelings of insecurity are often debilitating.
If you've been suffering from the thought of social gatherings during the holidays, don't worry– you're not alone.
It's estimated that 50-65% of men are affected by gynecomastia.
The good news is that gynecomastia can be treated successfully with surgery. It can even be done in the office under local anesthesia.
The impacts are beyond physical appearance
Gynecomastia has a significant impact on self-esteem and confidence. Heightened feelings of anxiety greatly affect relationships with family members and friends. The psychological effects of gynecomastia have long been observed and recognized as a serious problem.
You may feel embarrassed, anxious, depressed, angry, frustrated, ashamed, or guilty. You might even feel like you need to hide yourself or avoid social situations. Unfortunately, these feelings aren’t uncommon for men who suffer from gynecomastia, and they can often be long-term without correction.
It's important to remember you deserve to live life without feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed. Unfortunately, sometimes the only solution to gynecomastia is surgery. As diet and exercise does not reduce the glandular tissue. Gynecomastia surgery is a safe and effective way to permanently remove the excess breast and fat tissue and reduce the size of the breasts. Aside from physical appearance, undergoing treatment for gynecomastia also helps improve self-confidence and restore self-image.
Treatment for Gynecomastia may include:
- Surgical removal of the glandular tissue.
- Contouring of the chest using laser and powersculpt liposuction
- Radiofrequency skin rejuvenation to improve skin laxity
Social avoidance during holidays
The avoidance of social gatherings due to gynecomastia is among the most harmful symptoms that can arise with this condition. With a lack of self-esteem, many men find themselves in isolation, even during large and important events such as spending the holidays with family. During this time where it is customary to have many gatherings with friends and family, this feeling can have a larger negative impact on one's mental health.
Feelings of isolation and loneliness are heightened among those who struggle with gynecomastia during this time, only worsening the psychological impact.
Causes of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance between estrogen and testosterone. Estrogen stimulates the growth of breast tissue while testosterone inhibits its development. When there is too much estrogen relative to testosterone, more breast growth will occur than normal.
This condition is best treated by a surgical procedure, removing excess breast and fatty tissue to reduce the overall breast size.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Correction
After Gynecomastia correction, men enjoy several benefits that significantly improve their quality of life.
Improved Self-Esteem & Confidence
Men who undergo surgery report an improvement in self-esteem and self-confidence. They feel more comfortable in their own skin and appreciate how much better they look compared to before they had the surgery. Many are back in the gym lifting weights, maximizing their results even further.
Increased Social Interaction
Patients say they feel less isolated after having Gynecomastia corrected. They find themselves interacting more easily with others and enjoying activities they previously avoided because of their enlarged breasts.
Reduced Body Image Distress
Many men who underwent corrective surgery reported improvements in their body image. They felt more confident in their bodies and enjoy being able to wear more fitted clothes. They are no longer limited by clothing that conceal excess breast tissue.
Increased Sexual Desire
Many men who underwent Gynecomastia surgery said they experienced an increase in sexual desire because of their increased confidence and social interaction!
No More Breast Pain
Some men experience pain in their breasts during physical activities or when sleeping. After having surgery, however, many patients no longer experience this discomfort.
Taking the next steps
If you've been considering Gynecomastia surgery, it's important to know this condition is common among men and can be treated successfully.
Male breast reduction surgery is an effective way to treat Gynecomastia and restore a healthy appearance while mending the emotional scars left behind from struggling with the condition. It can be done in the office under local anesthesia with minimal downtime.
Call (979) 297-9289 or email our patient counselor, Jennifer (jennifer@pisarskimd.com) for more information on Gynecomastia surgery or to find out if you’re a candidate!