Gynecomastia or man-boobs are a common problem affecting many men. Unfortunately the use of anabolic steroids in gyms is increasing this problem leading to a surge in people looking for liposuction hospital in Bangalore. This article aims to educate you so that you may have the best liposuction experience for your gynecomastia problem.

What is gynecomastia?

Simply put, it is the overgrowth of breast tissue in men. All men have dormant breast tissue which normally does not grow because of high levels of testosterone. In some individuals, if the level of estrogen (female hormone) is higher, this balance may be affected, and the breast tissue can grow to give the appearance of feminine breasts.

Is gynecomastia dangerous?

Man-boobs are not dangerous per-se, and they will not be a threat to your life. However, they can be socially embarrassing, especially in situations that require you to be topless. In India, this can include going to the temple, trips with friends, religious ceremonies etc.

Does exercise cause gynecomastia?

This is a common misconception. Exercise does not directly cause gynecomastia. However, workout out and developing pectoral muscles may make your gynecomastia more prominent. More importantly, taking anabolic steroids in the gym can cause gynecomastia. This is a trend that is sadly rising. Many men are pressured to take steroids for ‘gains’. However, this leads to various side effects, one of which is gynecomastia.

How do steroids cause gynecomastia?

Steroids are broken down in your body, and one of the by-products is estrogen. As estrogen levels rise, the sex hormone balance is affected, and your breast tissue is activated to grow. Moreover, this is a synthetic form of estrogen, which is more potent than natural estrogen

Will gynecomastia go away once I stop taking steroids?

Unfortunately, no. The breast tissue does not decrease after stopping steroids, it only stops increasing further. Therefore the best thing to do is not take steroids at all.

How do I treat my gynecomastia?

Firstly, you should stop taking steroids.

After that, the only treatment is surgical. The glandular tissue in gynecomastia is extremely resistant to being broken down by exercise. There are two types of surgery:

  1. Mastectomy – An incision is made around the nipple and the tissue removed. This is done under general anaesthesia.
  2. Liposuction – Here, small holes are made, and the tissue broken down to be removed. This can be done under local anaesthesia.

What is the preferred treatment?

Liposuction is the best preferred treatment for gynaecomastia:

  • It does not leave any scars.
  • It is a day care procedure.
  • It can be done under local anaesthesia.
  • It gives smoother results.

Will the gynecomastia come back after surgery?

As long as you do not continue to take steroids and there are no hormonal issues, you can be confident that gynecomastia will not recur.

The take home message of this article is to not be pressured into taking anabolic steroids. If you have taken them and are having side effects, including gynecomastia, it is important to seek treatment. It is always advised to contact the best liposuction surgeon in Bangalore if you feel a problem and look for guidance.