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Men can be just as self-conscious as women when it comes to their appearance, and nowadays it is very common for men to consider cosmetic surgery procedures. This is particularly true when it comes to addressing aesthetic issues that damage self-esteem.
One such issue that can be of major concern for men is a condition called gynaecomastia. It involves the enlargement or over-development of the male breasts. It is often referred to as ‘man boobs’ and while it is not dangerous, the condition can have a huge psychological impact for men.
Breast tissue is made up of both soft fatty tissue and firmer glandular tissue - the latter tends to be a firm or rubbery mass that spreads over the breast area.
Gynaecomastia can occur for a number of reasons. It can develop due to hereditary conditions or disease; it can be down to hormonal changes (particularly as we age), health issues, excess weight or certain medications. It can also be common for teenage boys to experience some growth of excess breast tissue, due to the hormonal changes their bodies undergo at this time, but this should balance out over time. If the condition persists into adulthood, treatment is sometimes required to correct the appearance of the breast or chest area.
The impact of gynaecomastia can be quite profound, and men with the condition can be extremely self-conscious and are reluctant to show their torsos. This can have a knock-on effect in their personal lives and also have a negative impact on their desire to play sports, work out, etc. In some cases, diet and exercise can improve the condition but some sort of medical intervention may be needed if these steps don’t work.
It is possible to effectively treat the effects of the condition through a number of procedures. The male breast reduction surgery can address the presence of an excess of both skin and tissue.
Each person is different and treatment will depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment should always begin with a thorough consultation between patient and surgeon to ascertain the extent of the condition. Both liposuction and surgery can be involved, depending on the severity of the excess tissue. Liposuction is a very effective way of removing the excess fatty tissue, while surgery may be needed if there is a layer of firmer glandular tissue.
In the case of surgery – also called a mastectomy - the surgeon will usually make a semi-circular incision around the margin of the areola (the pigmented circular area around the nipple) and remove excess tissue. In severe cases, excess skin can also be removed.
Treatment usually takes around one to two hours and is done mainly as a day case procedure nowadays. The patient will not be able to drive for a time afterwards and there is some aftercare needed to ensure everything goes to plan. The patient also needs to be compliant with the post- operative care, such as wearing a pressure garment for four to six weeks to ensure a sustainable long-term result and to minimise complications. The aim of the treatment will be to remove the excess tissue and skin, restoring a smooth shape to the torso.
The important thing to remember is that this condition is not something to be ashamed of, but if it is causing a loss of self-confidence, there are things that can be done to help you.
If you are considering gynaecomastia or breast surgery, I can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.
Find out all you need to know about cosmetic procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post-Treatment Care:
Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations
Men can be just as self-conscious as women when it comes to their appearance, and nowadays it is very common for men to consider cosmetic surgery procedures. This is particularly true when it comes to addressing aesthetic issues that damage self-esteem.
One such issue that can be of major concern for men is a condition called gynaecomastia. It involves the enlargement or over-development of the male breasts. It is often referred to as ‘man boobs’ and while it is not dangerous, the condition can have a huge psychological impact for men.
Breast tissue is made up of both soft fatty tissue and firmer glandular tissue - the latter tends to be a firm or rubbery mass that spreads over the breast area.
Gynaecomastia can occur for a number of reasons. It can develop due to hereditary conditions or disease; it can be down to hormonal changes (particularly as we age), health issues, excess weight or certain medications. It can also be common for teenage boys to experience some growth of excess breast tissue, due to the hormonal changes their bodies undergo at this time, but this should balance out over time. If the condition persists into adulthood, treatment is sometimes required to correct the appearance of the breast or chest area.
The impact of gynaecomastia can be quite profound, and men with the condition can be extremely self-conscious and are reluctant to show their torsos. This can have a knock-on effect in their personal lives and also have a negative impact on their desire to play sports, work out, etc. In some cases, diet and exercise can improve the condition but some sort of medical intervention may be needed if these steps don’t work.
It is possible to effectively treat the effects of the condition through a number of procedures. The male breast reduction surgery can address the presence of an excess of both skin and tissue.
Each person is different and treatment will depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment should always begin with a thorough consultation between patient and surgeon to ascertain the extent of the condition. Both liposuction and surgery can be involved, depending on the severity of the excess tissue. Liposuction is a very effective way of removing the excess fatty tissue, while surgery may be needed if there is a layer of firmer glandular tissue.
In the case of surgery – also called a mastectomy - the surgeon will usually make a semi-circular incision around the margin of the areola (the pigmented circular area around the nipple) and remove excess tissue. In severe cases, excess skin can also be removed.
Treatment usually takes around one to two hours and is done mainly as a day case procedure nowadays. The patient will not be able to drive for a time afterwards and there is some aftercare needed to ensure everything goes to plan. The patient also needs to be compliant with the post- operative care, such as wearing a pressure garment for four to six weeks to ensure a sustainable long-term result and to minimise complications. The aim of the treatment will be to remove the excess tissue and skin, restoring a smooth shape to the torso.
The important thing to remember is that this condition is not something to be ashamed of, but if it is causing a loss of self-confidence, there are things that can be done to help you.
If you are considering gynaecomastia or breast surgery, I can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.
Find out all you need to know about cosmetic procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post-Treatment Care:
Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations
