Gynecomastia is a medical condition in which male breast tissue continues to grow until it takes on the appearance of female-like breasts. This is a condition that affects both men and boys and is primarily caused by an hormonal imbalance.

Though gynecomastia affects both breasts, there have been cases where only one side of a man’s chest is affected.

There are multiple causes for gynecomastia, but the number one cause has always been a change in the hormone levels. Males going through puberty experience the issue often, but it usually subsides over time. In some cases, however, the breast-like appearance remains, and men have to go through the embarrassment of looking as if they have female breasts.

Gynecomastia doesn’t pose a threat to a man’s overall health, but the look of it can adversely affect his social life. It can make him feel insecure about his body and decrease his confidence. The condition can not be resolved with diet and exercise. It usually resolves on its own, but if it persists, then a male breast reduction surgery can help.

Causes Of Gynecomastia

As stated earlier, Gynecomastia develops in men who experience hormonal imbalances. Male and female bodies, both, contain hormones called estrogen and testosterone. However, the levels tend to vary from person to person, and it changes often.

Males have more testosterone while females have more estrogen. In adolescent males, however, these levels tend to fluctuate as part of normal growth. When the estrogen levels go up, it can lead to the accumulation of fat cells in the breast region.

This is a typical form of gynecomastia and it usually resolves on its own as the body continues to develop. There are, however, other causes as well.

For instance, malnutrition and an unhealthy diet can also lead to gynecomastia. It can be caused by stress, certain medications, significant fluctuations in weight, and health conditions such as liver cirrhosis. This is because of the normal hormone metabolism being affected as a result of disturbed liver functions.

Disorders of the male sex organs can also cause gynecomastia. Such disorders result in decreased testosterone production and heightened production of estrogen. Some of these disorders can be genetic or caused as a result of trauma, the natural aging process, infection, or cancer.

Hyperthyroidism and chronic renal failure are also responsible for gynecomastia. These medical conditions create disturbed hormonal environments, increasing the chances of a man developing gynecomastia.

Treatment

There are multiple treatment options for gynecomastia depending on the exact cause. As mentioned earlier, the physiologic gynecomastia prevalent among male infants and adolescents usually resolves on its own. However, if the condition persists, it is necessary to determine the actual cause.

If the gynecomastia is a symptom of a deeper medical issue, then the actual disease or disorder must be treated first. However, if persistent gynecomastia is not associated with any underlying medical condition or the use of medication, then surgery may be the only option.

Men who are suffering from gynecomastia can choose to undergo a male breast reduction surgery to eliminate the excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue that resides in the chest region. It can help provide a man with a more masculine look that he can feel more confident in.

Contact Our Office

Male breast reduction is a safe and effective surgical solution for men suffering from gynecomastia. You can learn more about the procedure and the benefits it can provide you during a consultation with skilled plastic surgeon Dr. JoAnne Lopes. Contact us to schedule yours today