A Prime-Time Fashion Question

One of our colleagues noted that the topic of man boobs made it to Family Feud recently! We decided not to “out” this person for the dubious practice of watching game shows on TV at dinner time—after all, the report gave us an idea for a blog post.

The CBS show posed a question about what guys with moobs shouldn’t wear. You can imagine the answers: tight t-shirts and Speedos (only) were right up there. It begs another question, though: if you’re a guy with enlarged breasts, what should you wear?

You may wonder why, as a medical team specializing in man boob surgery, we would write about disguising moobs. We actually care about each and every guy with this problem, whether or not male breast reduction surgery is in his future. That’s why we counsel many people online at gynecomastia.org each month, as well as welcoming guys to banish the moobs in our Boca Raton clinic.

That said, here’s our advice about clothing for man boobs.

1) Invest in a good compression garment or two.

No matter what you call it—a compression shirt, vest or garment—this tight top layer should be your best friend. They come in a variety of styles, including tank tops and shirts with sleeves. We suggest you don’t skimp on the cost as quality is important here.

You can perform online searches and find many options. Be sure to read the reviews and look for sizing information. Or you can browse the forums on gynecomastia.org to see what types and brands other guys recommend.

2) Layer when you can.

Except in the most hot and humid days in summer, guys with man boobs generally wear a t-shirt with another shirt over it, usually open. In cooler weather, of course you can pop on loose sweaters and sweatshirts. Layers are good for distracting the eye—as a guy living with man boobs you probably know this already.

3) Re-think your shirt wardrobe.

Here’s another strategy you probably already practice—taking care with the shirts you wear, starting with t-shirts. Not only should you avoid tight ones, it’s a good idea to invest in shirts made of thicker material. Thin t-shirts can easily adhere to your chest when you’re sweaty or it’s windy out. Thicker material will hang better.

Whether you’re choosing a casual t-shirt or another type of shirt, darker colors and subtle prints are best. Bright hues and big, bold patterns call attention to your chest.

Bad Answer, Bad Answer

Here’s an answer one of the Family Feud contestants gave we disagree with. When asked what men with moobs should NOT wear, one answer revealed to be correct was “a bra.” We are fully aware that many men would not be caught dead in a brassiere, even if they have large breasts, and those are our man boob surgery patients. But there are many others who have chosen to live with the condition and try bras. Why? Like women, guys appreciate the feeling of support, the more attractive profile and the ability to control bounce. Logical, right?

If you visit gynecomastia.org, look for the “gynecomastia acceptance” forum. You’ll find lots of men talking with others about the experience of wearing a bra. One guy put his decision quite simply:

…if I had boobs, then they deserved a bra.

It’s All About What’s Best for You

After many years of man boob surgery, including for people who fly in to South Florida to get rid of moobs, we can say we truly identify with and care about all guys with enlarged breasts. If you want to or need to bypass surgery, that’s fine. Take all the avenues that are helpful for psychological and physical well-being, including joining gynecomastia.org and, if it makes sense, trying a bra.

If you want to banish your moobs and never have to think about them again, contact us. There’s no shame in electing cosmetic surgery to put an issue behind you. For many men, addressing it is the path that makes sense, just as it might to remove a prominent cyst, straighten a formerly broken nose or repair a torn earlobe. Life threatening situation? No. Happiness threatening condition? Yes, for many.

Call us at 561-367-9101 and we’ll explain what’s involved. Chances are, gynecomastia surgery is more straightforward than you might think.

Photo by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay