Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia and its characteristics
Gynecomastia is the growth of abnormally large breasts in males. Sixty percent of males worldwide have some degree of Gynecomastia. It can present at an early age or develop later in life. It is associated with overgrowth of breast tissue rather than excess fatty tissue. Gynecomastia is characterized by:
- Excess localized fat
- Excess glandular tissue development
- A combination of both excess fat and glandular tissue
- Gynecomastia may be present unilaterally or bilaterally both breasts
Considerations
The condition may occur in one or both breasts and begins as a small lump beneath the nipple, which may be tender. The breasts often enlarge unevenly. Gynecomastia during puberty is common and usually goes away over a period of months. Gynecomastia sometimes doesn’t need to be treated. It is normally benign. This can be avoided by not taking recreational drugs or medications that cause hormonal imbalance. However, in most cases, the breast size can not be reduced even after removal of hormones. In addition, Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self confidence. Some men may even avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition.
Causes
Androgens are hormones that create male characteristics, such as hair growth, muscle size, and a deep voice. Estrogens are hormones that create female characteristics. All men have both androgens and estrogens.
Changes in the levels of these hormones, or in how the body uses or responds to these hormones can cause enlarged breasts in men.
More than half of boys develop Gynecomastia during puberty.
Other causes include:
- Aging
- Cancer - Chemotherapy
- Chronic liver disease
- Exposure to anabolic steroid hormones
- Exposure to estrogen hormone
- Kidney failure and dialysis
- Lack of testosterone
- Marijuana use
- Hormone treatment for prostate cancer
- Radiation treatment of the testicles
- Side effects of some medications
- Genetic defects
- Overactive thyroid
- Tumors
Consultation
During a consultation, you need to be prepared to discuss about:
- Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
- Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
- Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs including steroids
- Previous surgeries
- Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
- Perform diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of Gynecomastia; this may include testing of your endocrine function
- Examine your breasts and may take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality, placement of your nipples and areolas
- Take photographs for your medical record
- Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
- Discuss the likely outcomes of Gynecomastia correction and any risks or potential complications
- Discuss the use of anesthesia during your breast reduction
Your surgeon may also:
Surgery day
Prior to surgery, you may be asked to do some lab tests, and get measured for a compression garment for post surgery.
Pre and post operative instructions will also be given by our staff both before and after surgery.