Putting on a bathing suit is a nightmare for lots of people—and not just women—who are self-conscious about their bodies. Many boys and men live in terror of going to a beach party if they suffer from gynecomastia, or male breasts. To them, the prospect of exposure isn’t pretty.
Psychotherapist Merle Yost had breast reduction surgery at the age of 34, and followed it up with a book called Demystifying Gynecomastia: Men With Breasts. In his book he reports that up to “one-third of males have to deal with the problem of gynecomastia at some time.”
Gynecomastia is derived from the Greek for “woman-like breasts,” or enlarged breasts. It can occur in a boy or in a man and can affect both or just one breast. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported that 14,611 men had breast reduction surgery in 2003 to correct this condition.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
It is estimated that gynecomastia affects 50 to 60% of men and gives the appearance of excess fat and breast tissue. The ASPS says it is aware that certain drugs and medical problems have been linked with the condition, but adds that it’s difficult to pinpoint a single cause in most cases.
However, hormones may play a contributory role in the development of gynecomastia. As early as the age of 12, boys can develop the condition. In Yost’s book, he describes the development of the fatty tissue as signaling “underlying issues that may need treatment, from a pituitary gland tumor or liver dysfunction to weight gain.”
Besides hormones, other chemical shifts caused by alcohol, blood pressure issues, medication and drug use, and liver, lung and kidney problems may also contribute to the development of male breasts.
Who is a Candidate for Plastic Surgery?
According to the ASPS, surgery to remove the fatty tissues in the breast can be performed on any age bracket. However, ideal surgery candidates are those with firm, elastic skin to enhance the body’s new contouring.
Additionally, plastic surgeons suggest that both older and younger men with excess weight lose as much fatty tissue as possible with exercise and diet prior to the surgery.
The Procedure
In most cases, the surgical procedure for men to reduce and reshape the breasts is elective surgery. The surgery can last up to an hour and a half and can be performed with either liposuction, surgical excision or a combination of both. As with any surgical procedure, choosing a skilled physician is key to minimizing the risks.
Yost, prior to his surgery, suffered many cruel comments. “They called me tits in Junior High. Girls offered bras and boys twisted and taunted.” After the surgery, he suffers no more.
Article by: Donna Corrado
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