Gynecomastia, also referred to as male breast enlargement, is a disorder where men acquire extra chest tissue. Surgery can be done to remove the excess tissue in the breasts. There are several non-surgical treatments for treating gynecomastia. However, they are not always effective. On the other hand, surgery for gynecomastia offers a quick fix and can remove the breast tissue, enhancing the masculine appearance of the chest. However, cosmetic surgeons in Mumbai advise treating the underlying cause of the condition before approaching surgery.
Table of Contents
Causes of Gynecomastia
Hormones
Hormonal abnormalities may cause gynecomastia. Due to hormone surges during puberty, gynecomastia affects many young boys. Pubertal gynecomastia typically, but not always, goes away on its own as the body ages. However, due to hormonal changes brought on by aging, adult males undergoing andropause may have male breast symptoms. Bringing the hormone levels under control can lessen gynecomastia. In addition, gynecomastia surgery can completely cure more severe forms of the condition.
Medication
Overuse of medicines and illicit substances might cause gynecomastia. These are:
- Anabolic steroids and corticosteroids
- Antibiotics
- Herbs like Dong Quai, tea tree oil, and lavender
- Opioids (narcotic drugs)
- Estrogen
- medicines for heartburn
- medicine to treat anxiety
Other Medical conditions
The growth of extra breast tissue may be influenced by medical disorders that alter testosterone and estrogen levels. These conditions include, among others:
- Testicular injury, tumors, or disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney failure
- Liver damage
- Malnutrition
- Pituitary tumors or hypothalamic tumors
- Klinefelter syndrome
Diagnosis
A cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai will likely conduct tests to rule out other illnesses. They may screen for breast cancer, and determine a potential cause of gynecomastia. These may consist of:
- Blood tests
- Mammograms
- Computerized tomography (CT) scans
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
- Testicular ultrasounds
- Tissue biopsies
Signs and Symptoms
Gynecomastia often does not pose a significant threat. However, one or both breasts’ breast gland tissue may enlarge and become painful. It could begin as a lump or fatty tissue near the nipples. Most of the time, the lumps will grow unevenly.
When should you call your doctor?
People must see a doctor for unexpected and chronic pain, swelling, nipple discharge, or any combination of these factors.
If any of the following occur, contact your healthcare professional right away:
- Breast discomfort, breast lumps, or abnormal changes
- Itching sensations around the breasts or underarms
- Blunt discharge
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Medication
- Several prescription drugs have been suggested for the treatment of gynecomastia, but none of them have received FDA approval. In addition, there is scant evidence supporting the efficacy of these medications. For the treatment of gynecomastia, medications and medication-based therapies include:
- Treatment with synthetic testosterone – A specific estrogen receptor modulator called clomiphene tamoxifen (Nolvadex) (SERM)
- Tamoxifen – Tamoxifen can be combined with hormone therapy for treating prostate cancer. The treatment includes androgen deprivation or antiandrogen monotherapy. During antiandrogen therapy, tamoxifen must be taken every day. In addition, men who get gynecomastia while taking antiandrogens may also be prescribed tamoxifen.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy administered to the breasts before starting antiandrogen therapy can help some men avoid developing gynecomastia. Typically, radiation therapy consists of one to three sessions (similar to having an X-ray). Higher radiation doses can be used to treat gynecomastia that has already manifested, which may reduce pain. However, radiation does not work well in reducing breast size when administered after the development of the breasts.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a non-surgical treatment option for cellulite brought on by gynecomastia. However, the method necessitates a lengthy course of treatment to assist you in permanently getting rid of gynecomastia.
Finally, non-surgical methods for treating gynecomastia include exercising, drinking less alcohol, avoiding narcotic medicines, and refraining from marijuana.
Surgery for Gynecomastia
- Liposuction: Fat Extraction
When gynecomastia is solely defined by excess breast fat, liposuction is used to get rid of it. Small incisions insert a thin, hollow tube into the fatty tissue. The fat is subsequently removed from the chest region using the tube to establish an equal and smooth chest contour.
- Removal of Breast Tissue & Fat Through Incision
Gynecomastia that is marked by fat and extra breast tissue needs to be surgically removed. A cut is made along the lower edge of the areolas, and excess glandular tissue and fat are removed for a muscular appearance.
- Breast Tissue, Fat, and Skin Removal via Incision
Gynecomastia may be distinguished by extra skin, breast tissue, and fat in more severe cases. A cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai will perform this treatment as an outpatient procedure with IV sedation. Liposuction will remove unwanted fat, and surgical excision is used to remove extra breast skin and tissue. Nipples and areolas can be repositioned on the chest wall to look better if necessary.
Conclusion
Gynecomastia can result in one or both breasts due to swollen or overdeveloped breast tissue. The disease could result from taking specific medications or from hormonal changes. Gynecomastia cases typically go away on their own over time. However, gynecomastia may require extended treatment if an underlying illness like hypogonadism, malnutrition, or cirrhosis is to blame. Your doctor might advise quitting any medications you are taking or switching to another if they may contribute to your gynecomastia. A cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai will recommend surgery depending on the severity of the condition.
