If I Have Gynecomastia, Should I Lose Weight?
Can gynecomastia go away with weight loss?
One of the most common questions men have when they suffer from gynecomastia is if it would help if they lost weight. Let’s understand the answer to this question in this blog. Gynecomastia is a medical condition that is characterized by the enlargement of male breast tissue. It is the source of a lot of discomfort and shame for many men. This condition can occur in men of all ages and is not harmful to their health, but it can cause issues with their self-esteem and body image.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by the development of breast tissues in males. This condition is often caused due to an imbalance between the female sex hormone, estrogen, and the male sex hormone, androgen. This imbalance between both the hormones results in abnormal growth of the glandular breast tissues.
These glandular breast tissues are different from fatty tissues. This condition can have an impact on either a single breast or both breasts. It can also happen at any age.
Other Causes Of Gynecomastia
Hormonal Imbalance: As stated above, when there is an imbalance between estrogen and androgen, this condition can occur.
Medications: Some medications like anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, and some antidepressants can result in the development of gynecomastia.
Medical Conditions: Medical conditions that impact the hormonal level of individuals like hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and liver disease, can cause gynecomastia.
Substance Use: Consistent use of alcohol, marijuana, and other recreational drugs can also cause gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia Vs Pseudogynecomastia
Before understanding if weight loss can solve gynecomastia, it’s important to understand the difference between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia. As mentioned before, gynecomastia refers to the development of glandular breast tissues. Pseudogynecomastia, on the other hand, refers to the accumulation of extra fatty tissues in the chest. The latter condition is often found in men who are obese or overweight.
Pseudogynecomastia is caused by excess body fat and not an abnormality in the glandular tissue. This is why if somebody is suffering from pseudogynecomastia, then they can technically solve their problem by simply just losing weight.
Can Weight Loss Help Treat Gynecomastia?
The answer to this question is a little complex and depends on the underlying cause of gynecomastia. Let’s understand this a little better now.
In Case Of Pseudogynecomastia
If a breast enlargement has happened primarily because of extra fatty tissues and it is only a case of pseudogynecomastia, then that can be treated by simply losing the excess weight.
In the Case Of Gynecomastia
In cases of gynecomastia, the problem is not extra fatty tissues but rather the enlargement of the glandular tissue. Because of this, just losing weight will not help in solving gynecomastia. This is primarily because fat accumulation or loss is not related to the size of the breasts of the individual.
In some cases, the weight loss might even put more emphasis on the gynecomastia as the surrounding fat will reduce but not the glandular tissue causing the gynecomastia.
Should You Focus On Losing Weight Now?
While weight loss might not help get rid of gynecomastia, it can offer other benefits like:
Improved overall health
Better self-confidence
Potential reduction in breast size in case of pseudogynecomastia
Better surgical outcomes
Treatment Options For Gynecomastia
If you wish to treat gynecomastia, you must get a gynecomastia surgery. During this surgical procedure, the plastic surgeon will remove the extra glandular tissue and fat from the chest area to create a more flatter and muscular appearance.
There are primarily two surgical techniques that can be used to treat gynecomastia, including:
Liposuction: This technique is used when the breast enlargement is primarily due to extra fatty tissues. A small incision is made by the plastic surgeon and a cannula is inserted to suction the fat out.
Excision: If the glandular tissue or extra skin needs to be removed, then an excision is performed. During this technique, the plastic surgeon makes an incision around the areola or in the natural creases of the chest. The extra tissue and skin is removed.
Get Gynecomastia Surgery At Divine Cosmetic Surgery
Are you struggling with gynecomastia? Have you tried every weight loss technique in the book and still can’t seem to be resolving your gynecomastia? In this case, it’s high time to get a gynecomastia surgery done.
At Divine Cosmetic Surgery, we have a team of experienced plastic surgeons who help deliver unmatched by most other plastic surgery centers. We understand the importance of the procedure, which is why we go above and beyond in ensuring your comfort.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your first consultation today!
Conclusion
While weight loss can be an effective solution for pseudogynecomastia, it may not fully resolve true gynecomastia caused by glandular tissue growth. However, achieving a healthy weight through diet and exercise is always a positive step that can improve your overall well-being and potentially reduce the size of the breasts if excess fat is a contributing factor.
For men with true gynecomastia who have not seen improvement through weight loss, gynecomastia surgery offers a permanent solution to create a flatter, more masculine chest. If you’re considering surgery, it’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to discuss your options and ensure the best possible outcome.
At Divine Cosmetic Surgery, we’re committed to helping you regain your confidence and achieve the results you desire. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more confident you.