Gynecomastia and the Link to Parabens
Parabens have been used to prevent bacterial growth and as a preservative for many cosmetics and some foods since the 1950’s. They are cheap and stable and were believed to be safe until late in the 1990’s when it was discovered that there were some negative reactions.
Parabens Mimic Estrogen
Parabens have been deemed xenoestrogens, which mean they mimic estrogen. If parabens can be stored in the body, there is concern about the cumulative effect and possible health risks. However, to date, there is no scientific evidence to support any link with cancer. To identify parabens read all labels, note anything that ends in paraben, such as:
• Benzylparaben
• Methylparaben
• Butylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Ethylparaben
This is an 18-year-old man with significant gynecomastia who presents for gland excision and liposuction. His goal is to have a normal appearing chest. He underwent breast gland excision and liposuction. In addition, he had a superior incision for a crescent areola lift for superior advancement of the areola tissue.
Some men with high paraben concentrations may have lower muscle mass and more body fat and possibly have developed breasts. Japan has been doing research that showed there was damage to reproductive systems for some men and they had a lower sperm count along with lower levels of testosterone. Adding to these disturbing discoveries was the fact that damage was seen at doses lower than what is considered the acceptable daily intake.
Parabens in Food Banned in Europe
Europe outlawed the use of parabens in food in 2006, but in the United States, it is still used in many snack items. It is recommended that if you want to avoid them, read labels carefully and try to avoid processed foods and packaged pastries. Dr. Miguel Delgado, M.D. warns patients that what you put on your skin is as important as what you put in your mouth. Many products such as shampoos, lotions, deodorants, cosmetics, etc. have parabens in them.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Men suffering from male breasts are invited to call now (415) 898-4161 for a consultation with gynecomastia expert, Dr. Delgado.
MIGUEL DELGADO, M.D.
Dr. Delgado, MD is a world-recognized plastic surgeon and specialist in the treatment of male breast enlargement, also called gynecomastia. He has developed new techniques and owns and operates gynecomastia.org, which has become the largest gynecomastia forum in the world. Dr. Delgado holds the two most coveted credentials; the certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgery.