Man boobs, otherwise known as Gynecomastia, is a growing concern for men. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health statistics, approximately 65% of men between 27 and 92 years old experience gynecomastia.
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition defined by abnormally large mammary glands in the male breast tissue. This is caused by a hormonal imbalance where the body is producing more of the female hormone, oestrogen, and the testosterone levels are reduced. This results in a larger-looking chest area or “moobs” as many have named the condition.
Gynecomastia can affect the breast tissue on both sides or present unevenly with excess body fat in just one breast or greater on one side than the other.
What causes gynecomastia?
There are several risk factors that can cause the hormone level imbalances which lead to the development of Gynecomastia. These include:
- Genetics and the mother’s estrogen levels;
- Medications including anti-androgens, AIDS drugs, anti-anxiety medications and antibiotics;
- Anabolic steroids;
- Illegal drugs and alcohol;
- Medical conditions such as Hypogonadism, Hyperthyroidism, Tumors, Kidney Failure or Liver Disease;
- Aging;
- Excessive weight gain;
- Herbal products.
Other conditions that can cause similar breast enlargement symptoms and should be ruled out are breast cancer and a breast abscess.
How can man boobs be treated?
Gynecomastia generally isn’t considered a serious condition for men’s health as it is associated with few physical side effects or complications. However, the effects on an individual’s psychological health can be great. It’s believed, over 30,000 Australian men experience depression due to the trauma of Gynecomastia.
For some adolescents and men, “moobs” may resolve over time but if it doesn’t or it causes physical pain, tenderness, depression or embarrassment, treatment may be necessary. This may be with medications (not specifically designed for Gynecomastia but may help with breast reduction) or surgery.
The two surgical treatments to get rid of man boobs include Liposuction and mastectomy.
Liposuction
Our Plastic Surgeons at Nip Tuck Holidays can treat Gynecomastia using Vaser Liposuction technology. During the cosmetic procedure, small and discreet incisions are made for the cannula to melt down the fibrous breast tissue and the glandular tissue. The excess fatty tissue is then removed to achieve a breast reduction. The process provides a smooth finish and enables the Plastic Surgeon to expose the chest muscles for a natural appearance.
More information is here: https://niptuckholidays.com/male-breast-reduction/
Mastectomy
Another type of surgery that may be appropriate is a mastectomy that removes just the breast gland tissue. This typically requires incisions to be made around the perimeter of the nipple or areola. As it’s a more invasive surgery than Liposuction, patients who choose this option to remove the glandular tissue will require an overnight stay.
In our experience, just liposuction or Vaser liposuction in young and older men can result in impressive results. Patients not only achieve a physical reduction in their breast area, but they also gain more confidence whether it’s wearing a tight-fitting t-shirt, working out at the gym or going topless at the beach with friends.
If man boobs are putting a dent in your self-esteem, contact us to explore your cosmetic surgery options. Should you be experiencing significant pain or psychological conditions such as depression as a result of Gynecomastia, it is recommended they seek medical advice.
