Contrary to common knowledge, male gynecomastia or popularly termed as “man-boobs” or “man breasts”, is largely not due to obesity.  This is a condition which many want to get rid of.

Gynecomastia is an abnormal development of large mammary glands in males. This condition results in breast enlargement - a man’s breast appear or look like that of a woman’s. The size and geometry of the enlargement is unique to each individual. Gynecomastia is different from a muscled-chest developed from swimming, bench press or other chest or cardio-vascular exercises.

At what age can gynecomastia appear?

Male gynecomastia can start appearing even in neonates or newborn, in adolescents or in the elderly. Gynecomastia in neonates is due to female hormones from the mother which is called witches’ milk. Normally for newborns, gynecomastia lasts only for a few days to a couple of weeks. In rare cases, the condition could last until 2 years. For adolescent boys, in most cases breast development may shrink or disappear in a couple of years.

What causes male gynecomastia?

Until now, the definitive cause of gynecomastia is still not determined. But generally, this abnormal condition is attributed to an imbalance of hormones like a decrease in androgen or an increase in estrogen.

Medications like anti-ulcer drugs, antibiotics, chemotherapy, cardiovascular drugs or psychoactive treatments are said to cause male gynecomastia. Also, recreational drugs like alcohol and marijuana are linked to this condition.

What are the health-risks of male gynecomastia? Physically, gynecomastia is not harmful. Typically, tenderness or pain is felt in the chest area due to the growth of glandular tissue or to some form of hormonal stimulation. However, in some cases, the presence of gynecomastia could indicate a more serious underlying condition like – cancer. It is important therefore to be examined by a doctor if one’s chest or breasts are abnormally getting larger.

Though gynecomastia may not be a serious health threat, it causes a deeper problem - social and psychological insecurities in men . Most men afflicted by this condition suffers from embarrassment, and many sought a natural way to remove man boobs. Greatly affected by worry and distress are adolescent boys as well.

Types of Gynecomastia.

The following are the forms of gynecomastia:

1. Puffy Nipples. This type of gynecomastia is localized only in the areola, or can be slightly extended outside.

2. Pure Glandular. In most cases, this is a type that develops in bodybuilders. This condition may be a result of the use of anabolic steroids. Liposuction is not always necessary to treat this type of gynecomastia.

3. Adolescent, Congenital or Hereditary Gynecomastia. Usually, at the age of 9 to 14, young boys suffer from large male breast. Normally, breast development will stop or will recede. Some severe form, however, needs an intervention. Unfortunately, others will continue to live with an enlarged breast the rest of their lives.

4. Adult. This is the most common form of gynecomastia. Glandular tissue containing adipose and fibrous tissue accumulates and causes breast enlargement.

5. Pseudogynecomastia. This type is composed only of adipose tissue, thus, surgery should be considered only if exercise and diet couldn’t correct the condition. Also, liposuction can correct this type of gynecomastia.

6. Asymmetric/Unilateral. In this type, only one breast is larger. The other breast appears normal in size and shape.

7. Severe Gynecomastia. This kind of gynecomastia suffered by older persons is characterized by saggy skin and overly enlarged breasts.

Surgical procedures are available to correct male gynecomastia. However, the cost can be exorbitant. Add to that, the pain and the discomfort during and after the procedure, it may not be a sound solution. There are better alternatives to surgical procedures – the painless and less expensive methods as recommended here…

Click here to find out more about the natural way to get rid of man boobs fast…