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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2019
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Gynecomastia - What You Should Know About It!

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Dr. S. K ChawlaCosmetic/Plastic Surgeon • 29 Years Exp.MBBS, MS- Surgery, MCh - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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Due to hormonal imbalance, it is possible for boys during puberty or adolescence to develop breast tissue. This tissue may not be similar to those of females, but still considerable enough to cause embarrassment. A more serious issue is when this also causes pain and swelling. While it disappears on its own in most people, in some cases it may persist in some and may require surgical correction.

Why does it happen? Male features are due to a hormone called testosterone, and female features are due to estrogen. While both hormones are produced in both sexes, the predominance is of testosterone in males and estrogen in females. Gynecomastia happens when either there is a reduced production of testosterone or higher production of estrogen.

This surge of hormone production happens during infancy, puberty, and during old age.

Other common reasons are:

  • Drugs (anti androgens, anabolic steroids, AIDS medications, cancer treatment, heart medications, etc.)
  • Street drugs like marijuana, amphetamines
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Hypogonadism in men
  • Ageing men, who are also overweight
  • Kidney failure
  • Liver failure

What to do? Most males go through some amount of breast tissue expansion during their growing years. This often disappears as they cross the teenage years. However, it may continue to grow and requires attention in the following cases:

  • Grows considerably and is painful
  • Is a cosmetic concern

The doctor can review and advise if any changes are required to rectify the situation. In very rare cases, if the condition does not improve, surgical correction may be advised.

Prevention: Given that there are obvious causes, this condition can be prevented by avoiding medications which can cause it. Avoiding street drugs, alcohol, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are also options to prevent gynecomastia.

Diagnosis: Blood tests and hormone levels need to be checked to confirm the diagnosis. Mammograms are also required to identify the pattern and to rule out breast cancer, fatty breast tissue, and localized breast infections.

Management: Treatment would depend on identifying the root cause.

  • If there are medications that are inducing this, switch to alternate meds.
  • If there is an underlying condition such as malnutrition or liver failure, that needs to be addressed.
  • Quit or reduce the consumption of alcohol and/or street drugs if they are the reason
  • Meds for breast cancer are known to reduce gynecomastia, though not in all men
  • Liposuction is an option, where the breast fat tissue is removed. This may need to be repeated if the fat grows again.
  • Mastectomy: As a definitive procedure, the entire breast tissue can be removed.

In addition to the treatment and management options listed above, given the embarrassing nature of this condition, strong moral and social support is required.

If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a doctor.

 

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