Do you have "moobs"? Don't use marijuana.

Moobs?

Moobs is a shortened name for “man boobs”, which is a slang term for male breast tissue, also known in medical terminology as gynecomastia.  Gynecomastia is far more common than people think.  It affects anywhere from 33-41% of men between the ages of 25 and 45.  And it affects 55-60% of men over the age of 50.  

It also is a matter of considerable distress for men who suffer with it, not withstanding Seinfeld's use of it as a comedic theme in an episode a few years ago. It can be the subject of frequent and humiliating teasing.

Gynecomastia is caused by a hormone imbalance between the male hormone, testosterone, and it’s female counterpart, estrogen.  When estrogen dominates, men are prone to develop “moobs”. 

Now, we are finding in animal studies, that the active ingredient in marijuana may contribute to the imbalance of estrogen over testosterone. Can this cause “moobs” in pot smokers? Are we going find an increase in the occurrence of gynecomastia? I know as a Fort Myers plastic surgeon, I have seen a great increase in the number of men with gynecomastia.  Nationally, the number of men who had surgery for gynecomastia rose 30% from 2011 to 2012.  

So you may want to reconsider the “joint” if you have “moobs”.

Is testosterone a new health risk?

Many new ads pepper our media marketing testosterone products to men to increase vigor, lean muscle mass, strengthen libido and, well, you name it.  Many of these products require a prescription.  

A recent study now reveals that older men receiving testosterone supplements may be at an increased risk for heart attack and stroke.  The study involved 8700 men.  Of this group 1 in 7 received testosterone.  After 3 years of follow up, the men who took testosterone had a 26% risk of stroke, heart attack or death versus 20% of those who took no testosterone.  These men were in their early 60’s in average.

As a plastic surgeon in Fort Myers, which has a large senior population, I encourage all my patients not to rush into any "magic cures". Ask questions of your doctor. Be cautious. And proceed only after you are sure of no bad consequences.

Yes, but what kind of a life is it?

We have all heard about the powerful fountain of youth. 

More exercise, more supplements – a better diet.  

We are all looking for the secret.  

I read something very interesting.  Young boys chosen to serve in the palace of the Chosun Dynasty between the 14^th and 20^th centuries were castrated. It was found they live an average of 19 years longer than their peers.  

They were more than 130 times more likely to reach the ripe old age of 100 than people in more developed countries.  It appears male hormones, ie, testosterone, will decrease a male's longevity.  

They believe testosterone weakens the immune system.

PS: As a plastic surgeon in Fort Myers Florida, I am not called upon to perform this procedure.