What do you see when you see Michaelangelo’s David? His defined chest stands as a symbol of virility and masculinity with its sleek, defined pectoral muscles. Today’s world still holds this ideal, so a man’s body not following that standard can have multifold consequences. For men suffering from a condition called gynecomastia in New Jersey, which is the enlargement of breast tissue, the emotional and impacts go well beyond the physical.
The Emotional Impacts of Gynecomastia
While gynecomastia is an aesthetic condition that poses no threat to a man’s physical health, it does carry emotional impacts that can profoundly influence his lifestyle and relationships. Extensive research has been carried out that demonstrates how impactful this condition can be.
One report by the American Association of Plastic Surgeons found that adolescents had lower scores on standard quality of life assessment, social functioning and mental health. Breast enlargement was also associated with lower scores for self-esteem. Boys with gynecomastia also had higher rates of disordered eating, thoughts, and behaviors than their peers. Sustained feelings of embarrassment and shame around body image can lead to depression and to avoiding social contact altogether.
The article “The Effect of Surgical Treatment for Gynecomastia on Quality of Life on Adolescents,” published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, showed that postoperatively, gynecomastia subjects scored higher on the surveys administered to measure results. Young and overweight/obese patients and those with severe gynecomastia had the greatest postoperative improvement across survey measures, which included general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health.
Further, it concluded that surgical treatment of gynecomastia in adolescents and young men could significantly improve their quality of life, particularly for those whose condition is moderate to severe.
Surgical Intervention Can Help Those with Gynecomastia in New Jersey
Gynecomastia Treatment Options
Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure designed to sculpt and shape the body. When indicated for gynecomastia patients, it involves the surgical removal of excess skin and fat to shape the chest and make it flatter—more masculine.
Breast reduction surgery
Breast reduction surgery is suggested for those carrying a heavier load. At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, Dr. Fodero makes small incisions around the breast and removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. As a result, the chest looks flatter and more manly.
Considering Surgical Treatments for Gynecomastia?
Be your body’s advocate. If you suffer from gynecomastia in New Jersey and are considering any of these procedures, remember that candidates should be in overall good health and their breast development should have stabilized to avoid the problem recurring in the future. As with any medical procedure, speak to your doctor to make the most informed decision. At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we understand your desire to improve your quality of life and are constantly updating our resources and facilities to offer you the best in the market.
Dr. Joseph Fodero and the staff at Northeastern Plastic Surgery are happy to answer questions and guide your journey to an unburdened life. Book a consultation by calling (973) 295-6565 or sending a message online.