Women are not the only patients who undergo breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty. In fact, it is not uncommon for men to develop female-like breasts, although the issue is rarely discussed in the popular media. The condition is called gynecomastia, and the condition responds readily to breast reduction surgery.
Gynecomastia, like most medical terms is derived from Greek in this case, gine (yee-NEH), meaning woman or female, and masto, (mah-STOSE), meaning breast. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, the psychological impact in a primarily patriarchal, male-oriented society in which all things feminine are treated with disdain can be devastating. This is particularly true for teenaged boys, who make up 40% of those suffering from gynecomastia; social ostracization and even physical abuse is all-too-common, and the after effects can last throughout a person’s lifetime. Fortunately, this goes away on its own in 90% of these adolescent cases, although the psychological damage is usually done by that point.
The rate of gynecomastia in adult men increases with age; it is estimated that perhaps as many as 60% of all men past the age of 70 suffer from some degree of gynecomastia.
The exact causes of gynecomastia are not clear. In the case of pubescent boys, some of it may be due to the presence of female hormones from the mother that have been present since before birth as well as low levels of testosterone.
In about 20% of all cases, gynecomastia is a side effect of certain medications. It has been associated with liver and kidney disease as well as spinal cord injuries; those who have been subject to starvation for extended periods of time may also develop gynecomastia as they start receiving food again. Marijuana use has been implicated, although the evidence is not conclusive; any conditions or drugs that cause the production of estrogen may result in gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia should not be confused with fat deposits on the chest that give the appearance of female breasts. This is a very common condition with overweight individuals, and is called pseudo-, or false gynecomastia. This can be treated with diet, exercise and in extreme cases liposuction which is the usual treatment of actual gynecomastia as well.
Men suffering from this condition should understand that they are not alone and that treatment options are available.
For Cosmetic or Reconstructive Surgery, contact Premier Plastic Surgery of Kansas City.