Gynaecomastia is a surprisingly common condition and affects up to 30% of men. The term is derived from a Greek word meaning “woman-like breasts”. Men who are affected with Gynaecomastia generally have enlarged female-type breasts that are caused by excess fatty and glandular tissues in the breast area.
This condition can lead to depression and low self-esteem for many men who are self-conscious about their appearance. Although it’s a common condition, those affected can still tend to feel different from other men.
The causes of Gynaecomastia are unclear, but can be associated with obesity, hormonal metabolism imbalance, liver disease or other medical causes. Often diet and exercise is recommended, but quite often this doesn’t make any difference. Should that fail, surgical intervention may be indicated.
Usually Gynaecomastia begins around the onset of puberty. It can lead to jokes and teasing, social anxiety and eventually men who prefer to keep their shirts on and avoid any social activities where they would be required to undress.
Another problem that men can experience from Gynaecomastia is that one breast may develop excess tissue while the other doesn’t. This means that instead of having two equally large man breasts, you end up with one large and one small. This can be even more unsightly and socially embarrassing than having a balanced pair.
In view of the devastating psychological affects that this condition can have, men suffering from it often seek medical advice, and some opt for surgical intervention.
The two surgical options available are:
1. Surgical removal of the excessive breast tissue as well as traditional liposuction under general anaesthesia – this often requires an overnight stay in hospital.
2. A new minimally invasive procedure called Vaser Lipo.
This is done under local anaesthesia and the treatment doesn’t take much more than 1 hour. The surgeon dissolves the fat and breast tissue, and this is then painlessly suctioned out. Some men may need minor surgical excision of extra tissue, if this is necessary, you will be advised of this at your assessment.
The good news with Vaser Lipo is there is little or no recovery down time, and the results are a firmer, flatter, more contoured chest which can give you a real boost in self-confidence. You can usually return to work the next day if you wish.
