Thanks to a major shift in attitudes about gynecomastia, more men are seeking plastic surgeryinstead of suffering in silence, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website. Dr. Mordcai Blau, who wrote the post, says that the emasculating nature of the condition can make it hard to discuss for many men. However, he writes, “the subject is becoming less of a taboo and more men are better able to advocate for treatment.”
Gynecomastia – or abnormally large breasts in men – is a common condition. It can be caused by a number of different factors. Some of these factors can be present at birth, while others are acquired. The most common causes include excess female hormones, Kleinfelter’s Syndrome, and steroid use.
This condition is especially common in adolescence, since this is the time of life when the body undergoes many hormonal changes. While most teen boys regress before the age of 18, many others keep their large breasts into their adult years.
With male breast reduction surgery, a plastic surgeon can reshape the chest so that it appears more masculine. This technique is often combined with liposuction to provide an even better contour. However, before the procedure can be performed, it is important that the underlying cause of the condition is treated. This may require hormone therapy with an endocrinologist – a doctor who specializes in the endocrine system and associated hormones.
ASPS statistics show that there were nearly 20,000 male breast reduction performed in 2011. This was 8 percent more than the previous year. With more information about the condition being more widely available, there is increasing awareness of gynecomastia. As a result, more men are becoming aware of male breast reduction, and are working up the courage to consult a doctor about their condition.
