For men, living with enlarged breasts can be a significant emotional burden. Gynecomastia, a condition in which excess glandular breast tissue causes male breast enlargement, can affect men and boys of all ages. Although there are no serious physical health concerns associated with gynecomastia, the emotional and psychological effects of gynecomastia like lost self-esteem and negative body image can be very difficult to overcome.
But just how common is gynecomastia? According to statistics collected by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), gynecomastia affects about 40% of the male population in the US. But let’s look a bit closer at the numbers. It is estimated that as many as 70% of boys in early to mid-puberty experience gynecomastia due to normal hormonal changes that occur during puberty. In many cases, symptoms in adolescent males will fade away over time without any treatment. Gynecomastia is also very common among men who are middle-aged and older. Of these men, up to 65% are affected by gynecomastia. Additionally, men with certain health conditions like hyperthyroidism or those who use recreational drugs may have a higher risk of developing gynecomastia.
For men who wish to relieve themselves from the symptoms of gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery can be a great solution. During male breast reduction, I am able to remove excess breast tissue, skin, and fat to improve the proportion of the chest contour and create a flatter, more masculine physique. In the video below, I explain how male breast reduction can effectively treat gynecomastia and help men feel good about their appearance once again:
Although the aesthetic results after male breast reduction are generally exceptional, in my experience, the emotional impact for patients is often even more significant. Male breast reduction is a relatively simple procedure and patients are typically thrilled with their results. If you are dealing with gynecomastia and would like to discuss your options in a more personal setting, contact Southern Plastic Surgery today to schedule your complimentary plastic surgery consultation with me, Dr. David Whiteman. During your consultation, we will discuss your specific aesthetic goals and determine the most beneficial treatment plan for you. For more information, tips, news, and more, you can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Google+.