Gynecomastia is the scientific term for man boobs or breast enlargement in men caused by excessive glandular tissue in the breast. This condition may not be harmful to one’s health, but it could cause a person to have low self-confidence and compromised social life. But men who have this condition must not feel so weird about themselves because in the US alone, more than half the population of old men has enlarged breasts. More than 30% among young men has the same plight.
Breast enlargement in men is physiologically caused by an increased amount of female hormone, estrogen, in the male body. However, other stages in life also cause gynecomastia-like signs like during babyhood (0-6 months), puberty (13-17 years old) and old age (50-80 years old). Enlarged breasts in male babies are normal due to the chest’s being the widest part of the body at this time. Among teenagers, it is due temporary and due to increased development of the breast tissue. In old age, it could be caused by a decrease in male hormones and body mass deterioration due to less physical activity compared to earlier years. Large breasts during these times are temporary and do not require treatment.
Just like other medical conditions, the manifestations of enlarged breasts may differ. Because of this, the condition is graded and classified according to the size of the enlargement and description of location. Grade 1 of this condition shows a localized small tissue that is found around the areola, which is considered very mild or even unnoticeable. Grade 2 gynecomastia involves moderate enlargement of breasts beyond the areola but the edges are indistinct, making this grade unnoticeable to other people. The third grade is characterized by moderate breast enlargement which location exceeds areola boundaries and edges that are distinct from the chest. Skin redundancy is also visible. This classification is high on the severity level and its presence is identifiable to observers. The fourth grade is considered as the most severe and characterized by highly noticeable breast enlargement, resembling that of females. This grade of the condition is the most difficult to manage for men who are affected.
Because male boobs are not harmful to one’s health, they do not need treatment. The management focuses on the minimization of the enlargement’s visibility in order to avoid awkward situations like being pointed-out or laughed at in public. Men find this condition very psychologically affecting because their masculinity is jeopardized. Plus, the increased estrogen which caused the breast enlargement may also affect their libido.
Although most men find it uncomfortable seeking the doctor’s help, doing so is the best option. The doctor may suggest the patient to lose weight and see if the enlarged breasts also decrease in size. Another management option is to wear compression shirts, to minimize the appearance of enlargement and its noticeability. Surgical removal of the tissue mass is the last resort, if the big breasts are severe in appearance and already hinder the patient’s daily activities. Whatever management options a patient decides to follow; the most important part is one’s acceptance of the condition and willingness to seek medical help. Millions of males worldwide suffer from the same dilemma, so no one should feel ashamed about gynecomastia.
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