Men all around the world struggle with breasts that have too much soft tissue, which causes them to look more like female breasts. Although ‘man boobs’ don’t pose a physical health risk they can take a psychological toll, as they are often frustrating to deal with. But what causes man boobs and how can they be treated.
What causes man boobs
Enlarged breasts in men, also known as gynecomastia, is a condition that is typically caused by an imbalance in hormones, specifically testosterone and estrogen.
Gynecomastia occurs when there is a reduction in testosterone levels in relation to estrogen. Testosterone is the male sex hormone responsible for the development of male characteristics such as muscle mass and facial hair, while estrogen is the female equivalent. Men also produce estrogen, but in very small quantities. However, males that have unusually high estrogen levels and low testosterone can develop man boobs.
Gynecomastia commonly occurs in babies as well as teens during puberty, but very often resolves on its own, without the need for any medical intervention. However, it can also affect older males, especially those between the ages of 50-69.
Treatment for man boobs
Male breast reduction surgery is the usual treatment for man boobs. It is an outpatient procedure that is done under general anesthesia or IV sedation. During male breast reduction the surgeon will remove fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breast (click here to learn more).
Are you ready to treat your man boobs? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.
If you are in the Walnut Creek or Greenbrae, CA areas, Robert Aycock, MD is our featured board certified plastic surgeon.
You can reach Dr. Aycock at www.aycockmd.com, or by calling (925) 236-9748 for the office in Walnut Creek, CA or (415) 801-3887 for the Greenbrae, CA office.