What is Gynecomastia

So, other than a major embarrassment, what exactly is gynecomastia (sometimes spelt gynaecomastia)? This article should clear up some questions you may have. The word itself comes from a combination of two Greek words, "gyne" and "mastos" which, in practical terms, means woman-like breasts. By definition, gynecomastia is abnormally large breasts on a man.

No one is certain exactly what causes some men to develop moobs, whilst other men don't, commonly held theories include puberty, obesity, genetic disorders, ageing, side effects of certain medications, and (gulp!) castration. Men who suffer from Klinefelter or Gilbert's syndromes also seem predisposed to developing moobs.

Believe it or not, it's estimated that up to 40% of males develop gynecomastia at some stage in their lives, with the majority having onset of the characteristics right around puberty. You may have thought you were the only one suffering with this, truth is you are not alone; it's just that gynaecomastia doesn't have the same exposure (no pun intended) and support network as other health-related issues.

So, what's a man with 'moobs' to do? - He can hide them as best he can, with a loose fitting vest or t-shirt beneath his regular clothes. Uncomfortable in the summer - He can regularly workout and do a couple of thousand bench presses and push-ups, in the hopes that the exercise will tighten up his pectoral muscles. Worth a try, but unlikely. - He can dramatically increase his consumption of food and drink in an effort to grow a pot belly that will counter-balance his moobs. Result: No more moob comments, just jolly fat guy jokes. - He can wear a support undergarment, such as the "Bro." Okay, so there's really no such thing as a bro, but how often has the thought crossed your mind? If you have ever watched the American comedy, Seinfeld, you might remember an episode when Kramer invents a bra for men with boobs, which he calls the "Bro;" the gentleman for whom the "bro" was created (George's father) prefers to call it the more dignified, "Mansierre." - He can do no! thing and live in a constant state of low-self esteem, brought about by the teasing and taunting of small-minded individuals who think it fun to make light of someone's differences.

Whilst all of those "suggestions" are made in jest, up until a few short years ago, that last suggestion was really all a man with gynaecomastia could do. Suffer in silence. And dread the summer months when invitations and excursions to the pool or the beach might be forthcoming.

Fortunately, now there is something that can be done, and it's not just camouflage or smoke and mirrors. It's a permanent solution that will end the silent suffering, and the end of the humiliation.

Don't suffer any more in silence. Check out your local Vaser Lipo clinic, make a consultation appointment with their surgeon and see what can be done for you.