Gynaecomastia is a medical condition that’s characterised by the abnormal enlargement of male breast tissue – linked to an imbalance between testosterone and oestrogen hormones. Although both males and females have breast glands, the enlargement is typically not noticeable in males.

This condition can affect individuals across all age groups, including older adults, adolescents during puberty, and even newborns. It is crucial to differentiate gynaecomastia from pseudogynecomastia, where fat accumulates in the breasts due to being overweight or obese. When it comes to gynaecomastia, conventional methods, like exercise and diet, are ineffective in reducing excess breast tissue. One needs to seek the right medical treatment for Gynaecomastia from qualified experts.

Symptoms of Gynaecomastia 

Gynaecomastia is typically not a severe issue. Its symptoms involve swelling and tenderness in the breast gland tissue or one or both breasts. It may begin as a lump or fatty tissue around the nipples, which often develops unevenly.

If there is persistent swelling, nipple discharge, pain, or a mix of these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional advice from a licensed doctor.

Causes of Gynaecomastia 

Various factors can cause gynaecomastia, but hormonal imbalance in the body is the most common of them all.

In breast tissue, receptors – particularly oestrogen receptors – can stimulate breast tissue growth. When the oestrogen levels are higher than normal in males, it can lead to the development of breast tissue.

Gynaecomastia and Life Stages – 

• Birth – Newborn boys may experience enlarged breasts due to oestrogen transferred from their mothers. It usually resolves within a month.

• Puberty – Around the age of 13 or 14 years, half of the adolescent boys tend to encounter gynaecomastia, but it resolves in about six months to two years.

• Older Adults – Gynaecomastia incidence peaks in men older than 50 because of a decrease in testosterone levels.

Other Causes – 

• Chronic conditions, such as hypogonadism, cirrhosis of the liver, poor kidney function, hyperthyroidism, and adrenal or testicular tumours can also lead to gynaecomastia.

• Certain medications can also cause gynaecomastia –

i. Medications used for treating heart conditions, fungal infections, and ulcers have been linked to causing this condition.

ii. Anabolic steroid use has the potential to cause irreversible gynaecomastia.

iii. Prostate cancer treatments, where testosterone-blocking medications are prescribed, can lead to gynaecomastia.

• Lifestyle and environmental factors, such as obesity, exposure to oestrogens, and heavy alcohol and drug usage, are factors that can cause gynaecomastia.

Medical Treatment of Gynaecomastia 

In order to treat gynaecomastia, your doctor will take a personalised approach depending on its specific type. If pseudo gynaecomastia is identified, where the issue is excess fat instead of glandular tissue, your doctor will suggest a combination of diet and exercise to reduce the overall body fat and breast size.

However, this strategy will not work if in the case of genuine gynaecomastia, but there are various treatment options available to suit different situations. The approach to medical treatment for Gynaecomastia will depend on individual factors, and several strategies have to be considered –

1. Wait-and-Watch Approach – In some instances, there is no need for immediate treatment. A watchful waiting approach would involve monitoring the condition without prescribing specific interventions. If the breast tissue continues to enlarge or if additional symptoms arise, further treatment will be recommended at a later stage.

2. Management of Underlying Causes – If gynaecomastia stems from an underlying health issue or medication use, your doctor will address the root problem and discontinue the medication leading to the issue. Such decisions must be taken under a healthcare provider's expert guidance.

3. Medical intervention – Persistent or uncomfortable cases would require a short course (three-to-six months) of an oestrogen-blocking drug like tamoxifen. This approach of medical treatment for Gynaecomastia is usually considered during puberty. Adult men may also be prescribed this treatment, but its effectiveness will be limited to cases where the breast tissue is tended to and the condition is less than a year old.

4. Surgical Breast Reduction – Surgery is a prevalent option for treating gynaecomastia. However, it is generally not recommended for adolescents until after puberty to ensure that the breast tissue has finished growing. Various surgical techniques, including glandular tissue and skin removal, as well as areola repositioning and reduction, can be used for optimal outcomes. Liposuction is another surgical method used to eliminate excess fat from the breast region.

Surgical Intervention for Gynaecomastia – What Can You Expect?

If you’re considering surgical intervention to address gynaecomastia, you must understand what the entire procedure will entail so you’re better prepared for it. Surgery is a common and effective medical treatment for gynaecomastia, particularly when other methods don’t offer the desired results. Let’s take a quick look at the steps involved in the surgical procedure –

1. Patient Evaluation – Before your doctor recommends surgery, the entire team will assess your overall health and specific characteristics of the gynaecomastia to check whether it’s the right choice for you.

2.Surgical Techniques – Several surgical techniques can reduce breast tissue, reshape the chest, and improve overall aesthetics. The choice of technique will depend on the extent of enlargement and the patient’s unique anatomy. Common techniques include –

i. Liposuction – Your doctor will use a cannula and its suction technology to remove excess fat.

ii. Excision – Glandular tissue and excess skin will be removed with the help of targeted incisions. It is crucial in cases with substantial glandular components.

3. Areola Modification – In some cases, the position or size of the areola may be adjusted to achieve a more proportionate and natural appearance.

4. Recovery and Aftercare – after the surgery, you can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which typically subsides over time. You might be recommended to wear a supportive garment to minimise swelling during the initial recovery period.

5. Scar Management – While scarring is inevitable, you can take proactive steps to minimise its visibility. Your doctor will strategically place incisions around the edge of the areola to make scars look less conspicuous. Several scar management techniques will also be recommended.

6. Postoperative Follow-Up – You must attend regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon, who will closely monitor the healing process, address any concerns, and ensure optimal results.

Wrapping Up 

Gynaecomastia – a condition that causes the enlargement of male breast tissue – is not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort and insecurity. Seeking medical attention is crucial to identifying the cause and determining the best course of medical treatment for Gynaecomastia. 

As a condition common among boys and men alike, it must be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical issues. While there is a change, it can resolve naturally; when it goes untreated for a prolonged period, it can cause emotional challenges in men, such as anxiety and embarrassment.

However, prompt treatment can not only eliminate the emotional challenges but also effectively deal with the persistent discomfort caused by the condition using various treatments, such as lifestyle adjustments, medication, and/or surgical procedures.

Book a consultation with us to discuss your options today!

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