gynecomastia

Dear Dr.
I have been suffering from this physical ailment called 'gynecomastia' (develepement of breasts in males)since my childhood(since the age of 10).My father also suffers from the same problem,but since he was slim early in his life he faced no big problems.He got fat only after 36-37 simultaneously he started having heavy chests.My brother also faces the same problem since childhood.But my chest is little too bulky.I am a liitle fat also.But even when i was slim,i had chest fatty enough to be made fun of by friends.Some used to even used to press them and laugh at me.eventually i started feeling depressed and my weight started growing which exaggerated this problem.
Now i am 23 years old.I have suffered enough embarrasment .I am now in state of complete mental breakdown.You've got to help me.Otherwise i am mentally completely prepared for suicide.
Will any drugs will help me..or surgery (liposuction)is the only option left.
Please reply soon.
Sandeep

Dear Sandeep!

Many people have to face a lot of emotional pain influenced by some minor or major alterations of their body. Gynecomastia is a rather common problem for many men. I found a rather interesting webpage related to this syndrome http://www.gynecomastia.org/content/general/gynart.shtml.

No doubt, your psychological wellbeing might be severely disturbed. But is is no reason for suicide. There are different psychological disorders or psychological consequences like depression, social phobia or personality alterations.

Therapy depends on individual symptoms, but might include antidepressant medication (e.g. SSRI) and / or psychotherapy. Surgery is an option, but usually only after the psychological problems are going to be solved.

Try to talk to your doctor about your problem. There is a hope and a good chance to feel better.