When we talk about breast surgery, the topic usually concerns women. But gynecomastia, or enlarged breast tissue, is a cosmetic issue that plagues adolescent and adult men. “Man boobs” are a typical condition for males during puberty and beyond due to a hormonal imbalance.
Additionally, genetics and some medications predispose many men to gynecomastia, causing self-consciousness, embarrassment, and overall discomfort. However, this benign condition is completely treatable by a cosmetic procedure best known as a male breast reduction. There are multiple reasons more men are seeking this surgery, making the operation increasingly popular.
More Cases of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia diagnoses are becoming more frequent. While enlarged breasts can result from many factors, this issue has been on the rise in tandem with the increasing prevalence of obesity.
Increased Pressure on Manly Appearance
In our social media-obsessed culture, more men have become hyper-aware of their appearance. Gynecomastia resists efforts to sculpt the chest muscles through targeted exercises. This surgery helps our male patients finally achieve a manly chest contour and boost their self-esteem.
To Alleviate Self-Consciousness About Appearing Bare-Chested
Being in a public locker room or going to the beach can cause anxiety for any man dealing with gynecomastia. They often tell us their body doesn’t look masculine enough, and that’s why they prefer to wear loose-fitting shirts to hide their enlarged breasts. Getting a male breast reduction allows more men to feel confident in their upper body, shirt or no shirt.
To Participate in Athletic Activities
For many men with oversized breasts, it’s challenging to participate in the athletic activities they enjoy because of chest discomfort and athletic apparel. Their breasts or nipples may experience pinching and chafing while participating in sports like running, hockey, basketball, tennis, or racquetball. Having excess breast tissue eliminated allows them to move freely without discomfort or pain.
More Men Are Accepting Aesthetic Medicine
Women have turned to cosmetic surgery for years to help improve their appearance. Still, it is only recently that men have followed their lead. In 2020, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons released some surprising stats. Men accounted for 18,575 breast reduction procedures, and nearly 2.3 million of the plastic surgeries performed nationwide. As more men opt for cosmetic surgery, they become role models for others who can see the benefits and consider a male breast reduction for themselves.
No matter the reason, gynecomastia surgery provides men the option to achieve what cardio and weightlifting can’t do on their own – giving them a masculine body they can be proud to show off.
Gynecomastia Surgery in Nashville
If gynecomastia is an issue and you want to learn more about male breast reduction surgery, schedule a consultation at The Plastic Surgery Center of Nashville. Drs. Mary Gingrass and Melinda Haws specialize in breast surgery procedures ranging from male breast reduction to breast augmentation to breast lift.
Contact us today to book a consultation and get started!