Though gynecomastia (excess male breast tissue) affects many men, there are still a lot of misconceptions about this common condition. For those who struggle with gynecomastia, this misinformation can make them feel isolated and delay effective treatment. These five fast facts bust some of the common myths.
1. Gynecomastia Is More Common Than You Think
If you have excess male breast tissue, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, at least 30 percent of males will be affected by gynecomastia in their lifetime. Some teenage boys experience pubertal gynecomastia that gradually resolves as their hormones level in adulthood. Other men develop the condition later in life, at around age 50 to 80, as their testosterone levels naturally decrease. Unfortunately, for many men, gynecomastia is consistent after puberty.
2. Gynecomastia Is Different From Excess Fatty Tissue
Gynecomastia is often confused with pseudogynecomastia. The latter condition describes enlarged male breasts due to excess adipose (fatty) tissue. However, true gynecomastia is an overgrowth of breast tissue that often feels firmer to the touch than fat. Many men with gynecomastia are otherwise quite fit or slender. Men with gynecomastia can also have other symptoms like puffy areolas or nipple discharge due to excess estrogen.
3. Medical Conditions Can Cause Gynecomastia
Some men experience gynecomastia due to certain medical conditions like hyperthyroidism, pituitary tumors, liver failure, or chronic kidney disease. In addition, certain medications can induce gynecomastia, including some antibiotics, anti-anxiety medications, tricyclic antidepressants, chemotherapy, heart medications, anti-androgens, and anabolic steroids. If you seek treatment for gynecomastia, a provider can order blood work, an ultrasound, and a CT scan to rule out other health conditions and determine the specific cause.
4. Gynecomastia Can Cause Psychological Distress
Though gynecomastia is typically physically benign, the emotional impact can be significant. Up to 94.8% of patients report psychological stress because of the condition. Many men with excess breast tissue avoid taking their shirts off at the gym, swimming, or engaging in physical intimacy due to self-consciousness.
5. Diet and Exercise Don’t Cure True Gynecomastia
While a healthy diet and exercise routine can improve the appearance of gynecomastia in some men, it won’t completely eliminate excess breast tissue. Some cases of gynecomastia can be treated with estrogen-blocking medications. However, this isn’t always enough to resolve the condition. Gynecomastia surgery often produces the most lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution for excess male breast tissue. This procedure could involve liposuction, direct breast tissue excision, and excess skin removal to create a masculinized chest.
Schedule Your Baltimore Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation
If you’ve been avoiding activities you love or hiding under oversized shirts because of gynecomastia, board-certified plastic surgeon and male breast reduction specialist Dr. Ronald Schuster can help. He has over 30 years of experience delivering exceptional results that help men feel confident and secure in their appearance. Call 410-941-3290 to schedule your male breast reduction consultation in Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland.
