An estimated 15% or 15 million men suffer from Gynecomastia, a condition which affects the shape and size of the male chest area. The extent of the condition can range from very mild to severe, in which case surgery may be required. According to data, nearly half of all breast reduction/ reconstruction surgeries are performed on men. So, if you are considering this procedure, you are not alone. As with any surgery, you want to know the facts before "going under the knife".
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an increase in the volume of the mammary gland, which is located on the chest of both men and women. In men, larger breasts are normally not a desirable trait, so many men choose to have this condition corrected with surgery. For someone suffering from this condition, diet and exercise may reduce the size, but may not restore the shape, leaving the male with an undesirable excess of skin and tissue.
Things to know if you are considering surgery
1) As stated in the opening, the procedure is very common. Doctors are very comfortable talking about it with patients and knowing that this is a very common disorder, hopefully, you will feel more confident speaking with a doctor about the procedure if you have been hesitant.
2) All men have a right to feel confident about the look and feel of their chest, both covered and uncovered. It should feel natural and acceptable to reveal the chest in appropriate settings. You should be comfortable when working, working out at the gym or swimming. You should not have to worry about excess tissue getting in the way, shifting or making you uncomfortable.
3) Male reconstruction surgery can help restore your confidence.
4) Depending on the type of gynecomastia experienced, your doctor may need to use one or both of the following procedures.
Excision - Cutting and surgically removing affected tissue
Liposuction - Making a small incision (cut) and inserting an instrument to "suck" undesirable tissue out.
5) The surgeon's goal is to restore the chest, leaving minimal scarring or appearances that a surgery has been done.
What to do if you have symptoms?
If you think you may have this condition, you need to see a doctor. Your physician will need to rule out something more severe like breast cancer and try to determine what may be contributing to the condition. You will then work with your doctor on a plan to correct the condition.
