Gynecomastia is a condition that causes the abnormal enlargement of breast tissue in males. There are a variety of different triggers for gynecomastia, including hormonal imbalance, low testosterone, steroids, certain medications, and obesity. And while this condition is often seen as an aesthetic issue, is can actually have a psychological impact on men as well.
The Psychological Effects of Gynecomastia on Teens
While gynecomastia is physically harmless, it can have a profound impact on the mental and emotional health of boys and men. Adolescent boys are most commonly affected by this condition, which can make them self-conscious about their already-changing bodies, often causing them to isolate themselves from social situations.
Many boys with gynecomastia avoid group activities, tend to dress in baggy clothes to cover their breasts, or avoid situations in which their chest may be exposed such as swimming. If left untreated, this social anxiety can lead to other psychological issues such as clinical depression, emotional isolation, and stress eating.
The Psychological Effects of Gynecomastia on Men
Gynecomastia can also affect men psychologically as well. Because the cause is often hormonal imbalances or low testosterone levels in adult men, this may lead to intimacy issues. Many men with gynecomastia avoid dating and live with a deep fear of rejection or humiliation due to their gynecomastia. Men who suffered from untreated gynecomastia-based social anxiety as children will continue to deal with the effects as they age, which can sometimes lead to depression and other psychological disorders.
How to Support a Loved One with Gynecomastia
Thankfully, the internet nowadays provides many different avenues for men to learn more about their condition and the treatments available. There are also social groups online where men can chat about their gynecomastia symptoms. Gynecomastia awareness helps men and their loved ones to better understand this disorder, which is a vital step for their treatment. If you have a loved one who is living with gynecomastia, be ready to listen and be open to learning more about this condition. Also, if you and your loved one are discussing possible gynecomastia surgery, joining them on their visit to different surgeons can be great support.
Treatment Options for Gynecomastia
While some adolescent boys will notice that their gynecomastia will correct itself as their hormones stabilize, some boys will not “grow out” of their condition. Gynecomastia that is caused by hormonal imbalance can only be corrected with gynecomastia surgery to remove excess tissue. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Delgado has been successfully treating patients with gynecomastia symptoms for over 30 years. He specializes in performing male breast reduction surgery and revision gynecomastia surgery procedures to help males feel confident in their bodies.
Schedule a Consultation in San Francisco
If you are interested in learning more about gynecomastia surgery and if you are a candidate, please contact Dr. Delgado today to schedule a consultation appointment.
Man-boobs are a very common condition, and worldwide gynecomastia symptoms affect approximately one in three men. This condition causes excess breast glandular tissue, which is often combined with fatty tissue, causing the appearance of female breasts. For many men, living with man boobs causes embarrassment and low confidence. This can lead to avoiding activities that involve going shirtless, such as swimming and trips to the beach, and missing out on spending time with family and friends. Men often feel too uncomfortable to visit the gym or exercise, which can result in weight gain and increase the size of man boobs.
Although the cause of gynecomastia is not always known, some of the more common causes include weight gain and obesity, anabolic steroid abuse, and male menopause. Whatever the cause, if enlarged male breasts are destroying your confidence, there is usually no need to continue living with man boobs.
Having plastic surgery may seem drastic or daunting, but with modern surgical options, getting rid of man boobs has never been safer. For the best possible outcome, the most important thing you can do is choose a plastic surgeon that specializes in gynecomastia surgery.
How to Check Your Surgeon Is a Plastic Surgeon
In the U.S., the only requirement to practice plastic surgery is a medical license from a state medical board. This can be obtained once a medical degree and postgraduate training are completed. However, this does not mean the physician has experience in any form of surgery.
There is a lot of confusion around board certification and how to check if a plastic surgeon is qualified. The first thing to be aware of is a Board Certified Surgeon is not always a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. The American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes 14 individual surgical specialties. This is why you need to check that your surgeon is not only board-certified but is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Another issue is understanding the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon. Many people wrongly assume that if a surgeon is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), they will have received the same training and passed the same exams as a plastic surgeon. This is not the case. To apply for board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a surgeon must have completed at least six years of training and passed an accredited residential training program, with three years committed entirely to plastic surgery procedures. They are also subject to continuous assessment and exams.
A surgeon certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery only needs to complete one year of surgical training, and there are no continuous assessments once they are certified. In California, the Medical Board of California has prohibited ABCS diplomates from calling themselves “board-certified.”
Common Gynecomastia Surgery Questions
1. Is gynecomastia surgery permanent?
Gynecomastia surgery is the fastest and most effective solution to permanently get rid of gynecomastia. Usually, this is a one-time surgical procedure with a high patient satisfaction rate.
2. What happens during gynecomastia surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery involves the removal of glandular tissue and/or fatty tissue. Liposuction sculpts the chest area for a smooth and contoured masculine-looking chest.
3. Can gynecomastia surgery be performed under local anesthetic?
Gynecomastia surgery can be performed under a local anesthetic. However, Dr. Delgado prefers to use a light general anesthetic for standard gynecomastia surgery. This gives him more control and also provides a more comfortable experience for the patient.
4. When can I shower after gynecomastia surgery?
You can shower the day after the drains are removed normally within 3 days of gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Delgado advises to gently pat incisions and then put your compression garment back on.
5. When will I be able to return to work after gynecomastia surgery?
Most men return to non strenuous work and light daily activities within 5 days of having gynecomastia surgery. For more strenuous work you will need to wait between 7 to 10 days before returning to work. Lower body light aerobic exercise can be started four weeks and full workouts six weeks following surgery.
6. How soon can I swim after gynecomastia surgery?
You should avoid exercise and swimming for six weeks following gynecomastia surgery. This is to prevent contaminants causing infection and arm movements pulling on the incision sites.
7. How long does it take to see the results of gynecomastia surgery?
You will see results immediately after surgery. Swelling and bruising will decrease over the following 10 days and by six months, the final bit of swelling will have gone, and the final results will be evident.
Boost your confidence and feel free to enjoy life with gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Delgado provides free virtual consultations so that you can share your goals and expectations. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch !
For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form.
Miguel Delgado, M.D., F.A.C.S is a world-renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon granted by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Society. Dr. Delgado has a surgical practice solely dedicated to cosmetic plastic surgery. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery and is the medical director of Gynecomastia.org, the oldest and largest gynecomastia forum dedicated to supporting, educating, and providing solutions for men with breast enlargement. Dr. Delgado celebrates 30 years of practice in San Francisco, California. He was voted the “Best Plastic Surgeon of 2017-2021”.
Gynecomastia.org does not provide medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis.
Man boobs are characterized by an overactive male breast gland. Man boobs occur when there is a hormonal imbalance, where levels of estrogen are too high, causing breast tissue to develop. In addition, there is another type of man boobs referred to as pseudogynecomastia or “false gynecomastia”. Men suffering from this condition do not have a problem with the breast gland. It’s caused by excess fat in the chest. Weight gain or changes in fat distribution can lead to the development of male breasts in men. Male breasts that are large can be problematic from a cosmetic and body image standpoint, regardless of the cause. For this reason, how to dress when you have man boobs is an important question.
Wear Compression Vests or Shirts
Man boob concealing compression vests and shirts can boost your confidence.
Regardless of the outfit you wear, confident bodywear will help you look your best. No one will notice that your undergarments are showing, and you will not be embarrassed by your boobs showing.
Usually, this undergarment consists of neoprene materials. This allows it to stick to your body and to give your torso more stability. As a result, they can not only be worn to conceal man boobs but can also be worn during workout sessions to reduce the risk of injury.
As with tape (see below), compression garments can conceal male breasts. It compresses the breast tissue so it looks flatter. Unlike vests, they can be worn under clothing. However, wearing a compression garment all the time is very uncomfortable.
Sweating can be exacerbated by compression garments. Although some garments are breathable, this is not sufficient when the weather is very hot. The buildup of sweat and chafing caused by itchy compression garments may result in skin irritation, back acne, chest acne, or skin rashes.
There is a wide range of confident bodywear available. Some products target only the chest area, while others are meant to be used for the entire upper body.
Taping Your Chest Down
Gynecomastia patients may tape their chests down to make the breasts appear smaller. You can use Ace bandages, duct tape, or even surgical tape.
Tape is used to push down the breast tissue to give the appearance of a flatter chest. The breast tissue is pushed by compressing it. It is, however, a temporary solution. Wearing tight tape or bandages can be uncomfortable. Moreover, many men find it irritating to have to tape their chests constantly. There is nothing more painful than having sticky tape stuck to one’s chest hair. Furthermore, it is unthinkable that anyone could notice that you have taped your chest down. That is embarrassing. Lastly, tape won’t prevent the growth of male breasts.
Wearing Layers and Undershirts
There are some men who wear multiple undershirts or layers of clothing in order to conceal manboobs. Wearing layers makes it harder to discern a man’s breast size. The coverage provided by thicker fabrics and knits is greater than that provided by thin fabrics. In addition, gynecomastia patients are subjected to uncomfortable heat during most of the year due to the high temperatures in this area of the world. It is not always feasible to wear layers to camouflage breast size.
How To Hide Manboobs With Clothes
A good option for hiding gynecomastia with a t-shirt is an athletic fit t-shirt if you’re in reasonable shape. You appear to have nothing but pec muscles underneath.
Wearing waistcoats, or vests is a good idea. TStiffer fabrics provide flattering results. For everyday wear, casual vests commonly have a matte finish as opposed to formal ones.
You should wear jackets, whether they are buttoned or unbuttoned, only if they do not strain over your chest.
In warmer or less formal situations, a casual shirt left unbuttoned over a dark t-shirt is more concealing than one with buttons.
When possible, wear a necktie. It consists of one continuous vertical stripe. If you tuck your tie into the front of your vest, you have a good reason to have a little bulk there.
To draw attention away from your chest, wear bold statement pieces such as a two-toned suede shoe or a steel watch.
Improve Your Posture
You may have rounded shoulders from unconsciously (or consciously) hunching forward in order to cover up your gynecomastia if you have lived with the condition for a considerable period of time.
Despite the fact that it is understandable, it is not in your best interests. Research indicates that good posture increases testosterone levels and that hunching adds a flaw to your appearance, rather than eliminating it.
Once you have begun dressing in flattering ways, you should begin standing up straighter. If you practice in the mirror, you may be surprised to see how good you look when you stick your chest out. Stand up straight with your shoulders back. This will open up your shoulders and make them appear more like pecs, thus helping to counterbalance bumps on your chest.
Make Dark Colors Your Friend
Furthermore, selecting the right color can also help conceal those embarrassing man boobs. Avoid lighter colors since they tend to highlight your body’s contours.
Consider dark colors as your friend instead. In the same way as complex patterns, dark colors, such as black, have a slimming effect. Additionally, they reduce the contrast between your garments and the light coming from the environment by hiding shadows.
Hide Big Issues with Small Patterns
Patterns can definitely be used to camouflage the problem area. However, you must select these patterns carefully.
Make use of small patterns that do not feature a lot of color contrast. A gray-and-black plaid or small blue checks on a darker blue background are suitable examples.
Thicker Fabrics are Best
If you live in a colder climate, wearing thicker fabrics or several layers of clothing may help to conceal your man boobs. Opt for a denser fabric over clingy or sheer fabrics, which will only draw attention to your moobs.
For those living in more temperate climates, tightly woven textiles offer a certain amount of concealment.
Shirts that feel rigid and starchy, rather than thin and feathery, should be preferred, but bulky, heavily detailed pockets will only draw attention to the chest.
White Colors Are Not Your Friend
Wearing white or light colors will make your chest seem even larger. Opt for dark or neutral colors instead.
Choosing shirts that complement the color of your eyes or hair will not make your chest appear smaller, but it will still look sharp
FAQ’S
Man-Boobs: What Are They?
Weight gain in the chest may lead to enlarged breasts, or “man boobs.” The appearance of man boobs can be caused by an excess of fat storage in the chest area or by a hormonal imbalance known as gynecomastia.
How can men reduce their chest fat?
Despite the fact that the breast enlargement may appear to be unsettling to some, there are ways in which men can eliminate unwanted excess fat in the chest. Weight loss is a good start by reducing fat cells from fat-burning exercises. Building muscle mass in the chest muscles will reduce some extra fat in the surrounding upper body.
What is spot reduction to reduce body fat?
Spot reduction of body fat or the idea that you can lose weight in one particular area doesn’t really apply when trying to lose weight.
What is the best way to get started?
Take the necessary steps to begin making small changes that can be maintained for the rest of your life.
By concealing man boobs, compression vests and shirts can improve your self-confidence.
Confident body wear can be worn under any outfit and still achieve the best results. Your man boobs will never be exposed, nor will anyone ever know you are wearing underwear.
Undergarments of this type are made of materials such as neoprene that adhere to the body and provide torso stability. In addition to concealing man boobs, they may reduce the risk of injuries during workout sessions.
Confident bodywear is available in a variety of designs and sizes. While some products are designed only for use on the chest, others are designed to be used throughout the upper body.
Boob – it’s slang for breasts and it also means an embarrassing mistake. In the case of men, it’s a bit of both; having a pair of oversized breasts that’s causing physical pain and embarrassment. Gynecomastia or Man Boobs is a real problem for many men. It’s brought on by excess breast tissue on the chest area.
For those afflicted by this painful medical condition and self-consciousness, help comes in the form of Gynecomastia Surgery.
Lift the Pain & Worries off your Chest with Gynecomastia Surgery
The discomfort you’re experiencing is not going away. In fact, it’s causing more pain with each passing day and the swelling is not subsiding either, adding on to your woes. You realize dealing with physical embarrassment is nothing compared to living with constant pain. You need help.
Regaining Confidence with Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia Surgery is the perfect solution to remove the glandular tissue from your chest, which is the cause of man boobs. The procedure is safe and effective in helping you to overcome the condition.
Gynecomastia: The Medical Condition
Gynecomastia is not just an aesthetic problem; it is a medical condition. Symptoms include tenderness around the breast, swelling of the breast gland tissue and more. The cause of the condition varies and this includes hormonal imbalance and also from the side effects of certain medications. Aging is also a known cause of the condition. Gynecomastia during puberty is not uncommon but if the problem persists into adulthood, surgical intervention is the recommended option.
Gynecomastia Surgery Benefits
Gynecomastia Surgery not only removes excess glandular tissues permanently but it also sculpts the chest area leaving a more defined and masculine appearance. With this procedure, you can expect a short recovery time, which means little disruption to your daily routine. During consultation, do inform the doctor of your goals and raise any concerns you might have in regards to the procedure.
Gynecomastia Surgery has been helping men regain their confidence, health and get on with their lives free of discomfort. So stop wallowing in misery and say goodbye to the pain. It’s time to lift the worries off your chest!
We all need a little bit of motivation to take that first step towards positive change.
The silent sufferer of man-boobs Gynecomastia, Men or women, we all have insecurities. Some of us dislike how our arms are a little too thin, while some of us dislike the way that our jawline isn’t as masculine as we wish they were.
All of these insecurities usually come from our comparisons to ‘ideal’ figures presented on the media, and many of the times, these ‘ideals’ are actually just products of awesome Photoshop skills.
Regardless, we make efforts to improve our physical appearances – some through strict exercise regimes, some through undergoing aesthetic procedures, whatever works for each of us.
The latter is riddled with misconceptions, and the term “cosmetic surgery monster” tends to pop up as an insult, and many a times as an unfair exaggeration to the individuals who simply took an alternative route to improve their appearances.
But what if some of these surgeries were actually rooted in health issues?
For example, a bulging belly is more of a health than aesthetic problem.
We’ve probably heard about those who undergo jaw surgery to reduce issues from strong under and overbites, and some who require rhinoplasty to fix breathing problems. However, not much is known about man-boobs gynecomastia, also known as the medical condition of having male breasts.
In the US, male breast reduction surgeries made up around 27,456 in 2015, which represented a 35% growth since the year 2000.
We spoke to David (not his real name), a Singaporean in his mid-40s, and a silent sufferer of “man boobs” until his gynecomastia surgery.
When It Actually Becomes A Health Problem: Silent Sufferer of Gynecomastia
“Man boobs” also have physical implications, like soreness.
“Man boobs” are commonly seen as an issue when guys are wearing shirts with a tighter fit, and the bulges aren’t in the right places. (Also a problem for women.)
For David, however, the extra fat in his chest was actually making him feel physically uncomfortable.
“I’ve always felt a little discomfort on my chest area in my early 20s but have always passed it off as nothing. It wasn’t until the discomfort started getting overbearing and disrupting my daily activities.”
He first assumed that it was a sign of heart problems, but checks with a doctor revealed no issues, so he turned to the most common trick in the bag – exercise for gynecomastia.
While his regime did help him lose weight, the fats on his chest didn’t go away and the pain was still persisting. He even resorted to putting ice on the sore areas, but it only served as a temporary relief.
Putting A Name To The Condition And Its Solution
Unable to find a solution offline, and adding on to the fact that it’s not a common topic of discussion among Singaporean men, David had no choice but to search online for solutions.
He soon found out that what he had was man-boobs gynecomastia, and eventually, stumbled upon a gynecomastia clinic, which presented an opportunity for him to finally get help for the embarrassing condition.
However, the decision wasn’t as easily made as compared to, let’s say, getting help for an illness like flu.
He was wary about seeking help from a medical aesthetic clinic, especially since cosmetic surgeries are usually cast in a negative light.
“I wouldn’t call it a misconception, more of a lack of understanding. I’ve always thought of aesthetics procedures as solely for vanity and never did I imagine that they could do more.”
However, being that it was a means that he could finally be rid of his suffering, he decided to book an appointment to see how things go.
“You can imagine it’s quite unnerving considering that I have no prior experience personally or by proxy of aesthetic procedures. But with encouragement and relentless persuasion from my wife, I decided to take the first step.”
Your man-boobs are not just an aesthetic problem. It is a medical condition due to hormonal imbalance. Gynecomastia can be painful too so don’t suffer in silence.
Gynecomastia affects 50% of all men worldwide
Moobs or gynecomastia is a medical condition where there is an overdevelopment of glandular and excess fat tissues in men leading to pain and discomfort. To date, gynecomastia surgery is the only proven clinical solution for gynecomastia.
Moobs: Common Causes Of Gynecomastia
Hormonal imbalance during puberty
Hormones and steroid intake for bodybuilding
Certain medical conditions
Alcohol intake or medication
HOW GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY WORKS
Excess glandular and fat tissues are effectively removed via tiny keyhole incisions with minimal damage to the surrounding tissues. Gynecomastia surgery is a safe surgical procedure to help you achieve a sculpted and well-defined chest.
GYNECOMASTIA VS NORMAL CHEST
Perform a visual inspection on your chest – normal male chest has a thin layer of tissue with small flat areolas. If your chest appears to be more feminine-looking, has puffy nipples and abnormally wide areolas, it is certain that you are suffering from man-boobs gynecomastia.
