Men Battle Depression Due to the Trauma of Gynaecomastia

The incidence of male depression is on the rise in Australia. Current statistics show one in eight Aussie men will experience depression and one in five will suffer anxiety at some point in their lives.

While depression is a multifaceted condition, physical health problems are one of the driving factors setting off the symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to news.com.au, over 30,000 Australian men are facing a battle with depression due to the trauma of gynaecomastia, otherwise known as ‘man-boobs’.

Gynaecomastia is a common health problem with more than half of adolescent males experiencing ‘man boobs’. This usually goes away after puberty however, one-third of men will continue to experience the enlargement of breast tissue and surrounding fatty tissue throughout adulthood.

You can read more about the causes of gynaecomastia here.

The physiological trauma associated with gynaecomastia can be devastating, however it’s often brushed aside in the medical world as the condition usually is of no danger to the physical health of the individual. From embarrassment and low self-esteem to depression and anxiety, left untreated the damage of this condition can become lasting and detrimental to the individual’s wellbeing.

Teenagers suffering with ‘man boobs’ at a vulnerable time

Puberty can be a difficult time without having to add the torment of dealing with gynaecomastia. Developing what appear to be female breasts as a teenager can result in bullying and harassment. Their self-esteem and confidence is shattered at the most vulnerable time in their childhood.

Young men with gynaecomastia are likely to withdraw from sports to disguise their condition in an effort to fit in and avoid being teased. The thought of dating and mixing amongst social circles can fuel anxiety as the individual struggles with their body image.

Gynecomastia can rock a man’s sense of manhood

Dreading locker rooms and trips to the beach for many men doesn’t go away after they’ve survived adolescents. The emotional impact of ‘man boobs’ can continue to daunt men further fuelling self-esteem issues, anxiety and depression.

Men with gynecomastia often become socially withdrawn, experience panic attacks and self-destructive behaviour. While some become introverted, others exhibit anger and develop into defence characters. The condition also rocks their sense of manhood as intimacy becomes an issue causing strain on relationships.

Online support groups which provide anonymity often become a place for gynecomastia suffers to share their experience and the psychological effects of the condition. However, for many this isn’t a long-term solution and doesn’t offer the answer to removing the excess breast tissue.

Liposuction can help gynecomastia sufferers improve their body image

A growing number of men are opting for liposuction surgery to reduce their ‘man boobs’ and boost their self-confidence. The stubborn breast fat resists the hard work of exercising and dieting rendering the sufferer hopeless and in some cases, fuelling the serious condition of depression.

At Cosmos Clinic, we use Vaser Liposuction technology to remove the fibrous breast and glandualar tissue; a same-day procedure. Results can be seen in as little as six weeks, which is a short time to wait for those who have suffered from the condition since adolescents.

You can read more about the gynecomastia procedure here.

Undergoing gynecomastia surgery is about more than vanity. It’s about restoring the suffers self-confidence, heightening their body image, and creating a better outlook for their life. Prior to the surgery most male patients feel ashamed to go topless on the beach, they struggle with their breast size and many suffer in silence.

The cosmetic procedure not only benefits those struggling with the condition on a physical level. Men who’ve undergone a gynecomastia procedure have seen improvements in their body image and confidence.

However, we recommend anyone who is suffering from depression to seek professional help prior to making any decisions regarding cosmetic surgery. While improving body image may have a positive effect, it’s not the answer to curing depression. If you’re looking to seek help, here’s some support services you can contact now:

• Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 | beyondblue.org.au
• Headspace (12-25 yr olds) – 1300 650 890 | headspace.org.au
• MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78 | mensline.org.au
• LifeLine – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au