Everyone desires a body that boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. Studies indicate that over 35% of men are dissatisfied with their looks. Gynecomastia, a condition affecting male breast tissue, is prevalent in men aged 50 to 69.

Gynecomastia commonly develops in adolescent boys. Breast enlargement is a regular occurrence in men. In more than 75% of cases, it resolves without any treatment.

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the non-cancerous enlargement of the breast gland tissues in men. The growth in the glands is caused due to the imbalance of testosterone and estrogen hormones. 

Generally, it affects both breasts; in some cases, it could be uneven. Breast enlargement occurs in boys who are in puberty and also in older men who face changes in hormonal issues. 

What causes Gynecomastia in men?

• Imbalance of estrogen and other hormones. 
• Kidney failure can lead to gynecomastia. 
• Consuming drugs or medicines that increase testosterone levels. 
• Excess physical exercise. 

Symptoms of gynecomastia:

Following are few symptoms in case of gynecomastia:

• Pain in the breasts, especially in teenagers.
• Breast tissues are swollen.
• The breasts become tender. 
• The breast nipples become sensitive when they are rubbed against clothes. 

The gynecomastia in men fades away as they get older. It calls for proper treatment if it does not go away on its own. 

When to consult a doctor?

If you observe any of the following, consult a doctor.

• If the swelling persists for a long time. 
• The pain or tenderness in the breast nipples lasts more than a year. 
• If there is a fluid (nipple discharge) coming out from one or both the nipples. 
• If a hard or firm lump is formed in the breasts. 
• Check for dimpled skin in the breast. 

Mental Health Effect of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the excess growth of breast tissues in males. There is a noticeable physical difference in the body of males. People wonder whether gynecomastia is terrible. More than physical pain, it brings along lots of psychological and emotional problems. Let us understand a few mental health issues faced by men due to gynecomastia:

Discontentment with body image

Men having the problem of gynecomastia have extremely low confidence when it comes to their body image. They find it difficult to present themselves in public. They prefer not to mingle much in a crowd. Even their dressing sense also changes; they prefer to wear loose and baggy clothes to conceal their breasts. 

Adverse effects on mental well-being

Gynecomastia can harm a person's mental well-being and lower their self-esteem. Anxiety is the first reaction which is found in men who face the issue of enlarged breasts. 

They are very embarrassed to go topless; it gives them a very uncomfortable feeling when their enlarged breasts move. Most of them fear and have anxiety about how their peers will react to such body image. 

Teenagers who have the problem of gynecomastia prefer to work online rather than deal with people in person. They seek solace in online or virtual interactions. 

Impact on interpersonal relations

Interpersonal relations have a solid place in our lives. Men are always self-conscious about how their body image is the same as women's. They are always careful about how they are perceived for their physical looks. 

Men suffering from gynecomastia feel that their sexual prowess and performance are affected due to enlarged breasts. Their interpersonal relations with their partner remain very tough to handle. They cannot satisfy their partners due to their low self–esteem. 

Patients with gynecomastia have very often reported sexual complaints like low sexual drive and less attraction towards sex. 

Suicidal thoughts

Men with gynecomastia have been found to have developed severe trauma. There have been instances where they have experienced suicidal attempts. Even though it is a physical problem, the mental effects are very severe. 

Teenagers who face the problem of enlarged breasts are generally bullied and harassed in school/college. Thus, they withdraw themselves from everyday activities and even sports activities. 

Grown-up men find it impossible to mingle themselves in activities like going for a picnic on a beach. Because they may be required to go topless at the beach or splash in the swimming pool, they withdraw themselves from any such social engagements. 

It leads to very poor general health; since they find it challenging to stay in public, they have improper eating habits. All these multiple issues lead to depression, which often ends up in suicide.  

Bodily discomfort

Gynecomastia affects more than 60 percent of men across the globe. Even though the enlarged breasts remain only for a certain period, there are times when physical pain is felt. This pain could be less or more depending on the enlargement of the breasts.

This uncomfortable feeling or physical discomfort can suddenly happen in a public place, meeting, or workplace. The pain could be intermittent or constant, but many times, men prefer to adopt certain postures, e.g., slouching, so that the prominence of enlarged breasts can be reduced. 

Conclusion

Gynecomastia treatment is not generally required. The breast enlargement goes away along with time. There are rare instances where treatment would be necessary. The best part is that treatments are available. The gynecomastia treatment helps restore confidence and self–esteem by enhancing body image. 

Meanwhile, it is essential to get in touch with a psychotherapist to avoid losing self-confidence. Consult your nearest psychotherapist, who will provide you with all help and, if required, conduct gynecomastia surgery.