Enlargement of breasts in men (Gynecomastia)

Last updated date: 10-May-2023

Originally Written in English

Enlargement of breasts in men (Gynecomastia)

Overview

Gynecomastia is a relatively prevalent condition. It can be caused by anything from benign physiological processes to uncommon neoplasms. The doctor must understand the hormonal variables involved in breast growth to appropriately evaluate the etiology of gynecomastia. Once gynecomastia has been detected, the underlying reason must be treated. If no underlying reason is found, diligent monitoring is advised. However, if the gynecomastia is severe and recent in development, medicinal therapy can be tried first, and if that fails, glandular tissue can be surgically removed.

Gentlemen, if you're worried about your chest proportions, you're not alone. If you feel like every shirt is too tight, or if you don't like the way your chest looks in photographs, it's not a cause for concern. There are treatment options available to fight gynecomastia and restore your body even before puberty. Overall, being proactive about treatment and using the right products is key to achieving the results you want.

 

What is a Male Breast (Gynecomastia)?

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is clinically described as a generalized enlargement of male breast tissue with a rubbery or firm mass spreading concentrically and symmetrically from the nipple and histopathologically benign growth of glandular male breast tissue. At least 30% of guys will be impacted at some point in their lives. Because it causes worry, psychological pain, and fear of breast cancer, early diagnosis is critical, and patients typically seek medical care.

It is the most prevalent breast ailment in men and generally occurs bilaterally. Pseudogynecomastia, a similar disorder that appears as fat accumulation without glandular development, is particularly common in obese men. Patients seek medical treatment and diagnostic examination because gynecomastia creates worry, psychological discomfort, and a fear of breast cancer. Because of the rising prevalence of obesity, the number of people suffering from pseudo-gynecomastia is rising.

Furthermore, increasing usage of anabolic steroids and exposure to xenoestrogens or estrogen-like chemicals in the environment may drive glandular development in male breast tissue.

In moderate situations, essential reassurance along with dietary and exercise guidance, may suffice. In more severe situations, however, medical and/or surgical intervention is necessary.

 

Breast development

Breast development

Male breast growth follows the same pattern as female breast development. Female puberty is characterized by complicated hormonal interaction that results in the growth and maturity of the adult female breast.

Early in fetal development, epithelial cells generated from the epidermis of the areola proliferate into ducts that link to the nipple at the skin's surface. In later gestation, the blind ends of these ducts bud to produce alveolar structures. The infantile breast regresses until adolescence due to a decrease in fetal prolactin, placental estrogen, and progesterone upon birth.

The earliest clinical appearance of the breast bud, as well as development and division of the ducts, occur during thelarche in females, giving birth to club-shaped terminal end buds, which eventually become alveolar buds. A dozen alveolar buds will cluster around a terminal duct to create the type 1 lobule. The type 1 lobule will develop into the types 2 and 3 lobules, known as ductules. In type 2 and type 3 lobules, the number of alveolar buds can reach 50 and 80, respectively. The full differentiation process takes years once puberty begins and may never be finished if pregnancy is not attained.

 

What are the causes of Gynecomastia?

The majority of instances of gynecomastia are idiopathic, meaning of unknown cause. It has, however, been linked to hormonal abnormalities in estrogen and testosterone.

This syndrome can appear temporary at birth and is considered to be caused by a surge in circulating maternal estrogens. This illness may also affect adolescent boys due to an estradiol/testosterone imbalance. Hypertrophy in males over the age of 65 is hypothesized to be caused by a decrease in testosterone levels and a shift in the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio. Furthermore, older men are more likely to be using gynecomastia-causing medications.

This syndrome may be exacerbated by underlying medical diseases such as breast cancer, obesity, hypogonadism, adrenal illness, thyroid disease, cirrhosis, renal failure, and malnutrition. Tumors of the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, lungs, and testes can cause hormonal abnormalities and, eventually, gynecomastia.

 Digoxin, thiazides, estrogens, phenothiazines, and theophylline have all been proven to contribute to this illness. Certain recreational substances, particularly marijuana, have also been linked to this condition. Methotrexate, alkylating agents, imatinib, and vinca alkaloids are examples of chemotherapeutic medicines that have been linked to gynecomastia. Cimetidine, spironolactone, ketoconazole, and finasteride are the most often used medications that have estrogen-like action.

 

Pathophysiology of Gynecomastia

Pathophysiology of gynecomastia

The most common cause of gynecomastia is assumed to be an altered balance of estrogen and androgen effects caused by an absolute increase in estrogen production, a relative reduction in androgen production, or a combination of the two. Estrogen acts as a growth hormone for the breast, therefore an excess of estradiol in males causes breast expansion by stimulating ductal epithelial hyperplasia, ductal elongation and branching, periductal fibroblast proliferation, and vascularity. The histological effects of estrogen are identical in males and females, with the exception that luteal phase progesterone in females causes aciner formation, which does not occur in males.

Elevated blood estrogen levels in men can be caused by estrogen-producing tumors (Leydig or Sertoli cell, hCG-producing, or adrenocortical tumors), or, more often, by extra-gonadal aromatization of androgens to estrogens. Local tissue variables in the breast, such as enhanced aromatase activity, can induce excessive local estrogen synthesis, reduced estrogen degradation, and alterations in the levels or activity of estrogen or androgen receptors.

Despite the presence of prolactin (PRL) receptors in male breast tissue, hyperprolactinemia can cause gynecomastia by affecting the hypothalamus and inducing central hypogonadism. PRL activation decreases androgen receptors while increasing estrogen and progesterone receptors in breast cancer cells. Similar processes in male breast tissue might result in gynecomastia. The involvement of PRL, progesterone, and other growth factors (GFs) in the development of gynecomastia is unknown.

 

What are the clinical manifestations of gynecomastia?

clinical manifestations of gynecomastia

The start and persistence of gynecomastia, related symptoms, and difficulties with specific organ systems such as the liver, renal, adrenal, prostate, pulmonary, testicular, or thyroid are all important aspects in the patient's history. In certain circumstances, a chest MRI or CT scan reveals that the patient has gynecomastia.

A thorough examination of family history, genetic history, medicines, and recreational drug use should also be performed. A detailed and thorough physical examination should be performed. The head and neck check should look for any suspicious tumors or thyroid issues. Examine the breasts for tissue type, masses, skin changes, nipple discharge, asymmetry, and soreness, as well as an axillary examination. Asymmetry, lumps, enlargement, or atrophy of the testes should be looked for. Males who have feminizing traits should undergo endocrine and genetic testing. Any additional positive physical examination results should be handled appropriately.

A disorder known as pseudo-gynecomastia must be distinguished from gynecomastia. Only circumferential fat is seen in the subareolar region of the former. The disorder is frequently bilateral, and in most cases, the fat deposit remains the same size for many years. In such instances, it is prudent to observe. 

 

Male breast cancer

Male breast cancer

Male breast cancer is extremely uncommon, accounting for only 0.2 percent of all male malignancies. In surgically removed breast specimens with the diagnostic of gynecomastia, the total frequency of invasive carcinomas was 0.11 % and that of in situ carcinomas was 0.18 %. Despite these modest percentages, men with gynecomastia, particularly the elderly, are concerned about breast cancer and frequently seek medical counsel, making this type of consultation rather prevalent in general care. Male breast cancer, however uncommon, has been linked to gynecomastia and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Men with Klinefelter syndrome are 20 to 50 times more likely to get breast cancer. Hyperestrogenic situations such as obesity, drinking, exogenous estrogen exposure, and testicular abnormalities are also dangers. It is unknown if these specific breast cancer risks are connected to the stimulatory mechanism that causes gynecomastia. Exhaust emissions, radiation to the chest, and liver damage are all risk factors for male breast cancer. Family history should be researched at all times. A family history of BRCA2-positive breast cancer, in particular, dramatically raises the risk of male breast cancer among mutation carriers.

 

PATIENT EVALUATION

PATIENT EVALUATION

At the time of presentation, all patients require a comprehensive history and physical examination. Medication, drug and alcohol misuse, and other chemical exposures should be given special consideration. Look for signs of underlying systemic illness, such as hyperthyroidism, liver disease, or renal failure. Furthermore, the doctor must consider neoplasia as a possible cause and determine the duration and timing of breast growth. Rapid breast development in recent years is more problematic than persistent gynecomastia. Furthermore, the doctor should question fertility, erectile dysfunction, and libido in order to rule out hypogonadism, either primary or secondary, as a possible reason.

 

Gynecomastia Diagnosis

1. Physical Examination

The breast examination, in our opinion, is best conducted with the patient supine and the examiner palpating from the periphery to the areola. When hardness is detected, the glandular mass's diameter should be measured. Gynecomastia is clinically diagnosed by the presence of subareolar breast tissue with a diameter of 2 cm or larger.

On physical examination, an immovable hard tumor is suspected of being malignant. Skin dimpling, nipple retraction or discharge, and axillary lymphadenopathy suggest the possibility of cancer. Tenderness may be observed in people with less than 6 months of gynecomastia, although it is uncommon in patients with breast cancer.

A comprehensive testicular examination is required. When a clinical exam shows a testicular mass or when serum hCG levels are increased, a testicular ultrasonogram (USG) is recommended. Asymmetric testes or testicular bulk indicate the probability of malignancy, whereas bilaterally reduced testes indicate testicular failure. Pituitary illness may be indicated by visual field impairment. Physical signs of underlying systemic illnesses such as thyrotoxicosis, HIV disease, and liver or renal failure should also be evaluated as well. Because obesity is frequently connected with gynecomastia, body mass index should be recorded.

 

2. Laboratory Evaluation

Serum testosterone, estradiol, LH, and hCG levels should be tested in all patients who present with gynecomastia (using an assay that detects all forms of hCG). Further testing should be customized to the history, physical examination, and preliminary test findings. A high beta-HCG or significantly raised blood estradiol signals neoplasia, and a testicular ultrasound is recommended to diagnose a testicular tumor; however, various non-testicular cancers can release hCG as well.

Primary hypogonadism is defined by a low testosterone level, increased LH, and normal to high estrogen levels. If the history points to Klinefelter syndrome, a karyotype should be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. Secondary hypogonadism is indicated by low testosterone, low LH, and normal estradiol levels, and hypothalamic or pituitary reasons should be addressed. If testosterone, LH, and estradiol levels are all increased, androgen resistance should be suspected. If the physical examination indicates liver failure, renal failure, or hyperthyroidism, liver, kidney, and thyroid function should be evaluated.

 

3. Other diagnosis tools

Other diagnosis tools commonly used include mammograms, CT scans, Xrays, and MRI scans used mainly for ruling out other conditions. For example, if a lung or mediastinal lesion is suspected, a chest x-ray should be performed. Furthermore, if a breast tissue examination indicates cancer, a biopsy should be conducted. This is especially important in Klinefelter syndrome patients, who have an elevated risk of breast cancer. If the examination result is consistent with a breast abscess, fine needle aspiration for microscopy, acid-fast bacilli, and culture are recommended.

 

Phycological implications of gynecomastia in men

Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, is a condition that can cause psychological distress in men. Research has found that depression is more common among men with gynecomastia compared to their counterparts without the condition. Studies have shown that those with the condition are more likely to report feeling socially isolated and ashamed of their appearance. 

Depression caused by gynecomastia can lead to a decrease in quality of life and overall well-being. The effects of depression on physical health can be devastating, as it is associated with low energy levels, decreased motivation, and poor dietary choices which can worsen existing medical conditions. Furthermore, depression may interfere with treatment adherence leading to further physical repercussions due to inadequate care. 

Gynecomastia can also lead to psychological distress due to body image issues. This is especially concerning in males, as they have traditionally been taught that their bodies should be lean and muscular. The presence of enlarged breasts can cause men to feel inadequate and unattractive, leading to low self-esteem and difficulty engaging in relationships with the opposite sex. 

Depression caused by gynecomastia is a complex issue that needs to be addressed on both physical and psychological levels. Treatment options for depression include psychotherapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and support groups. It is essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional in order to properly diagnose and treat the condition. 

Additionally, those struggling with depression due to gynecomastia should consider seeking help from a surgeon in order to address their physical concerns. Surgery can provide relief and improve self-esteem, enabling men to move forward and focus on the positive aspects of life. 

It is important that society understands the significance of addressing mental health issues among those with gynecomastia and that treatment options are available for those who need it. With proper intervention, men with gynecomastia can live healthy and fulfilling lives without having to face the negative impacts of depression.

 

Gynecomastia Management

Gynecomastia Management

Gynecomastia is graded according to the extent of breast growth, skin excess, and ptosis. The therapy for each Grade varies according to the quantity of extra skin and ptosis as follows:

  • Grade I: Small enlargement, no skin excess
  • Grade II: Moderate enlargement, no skin excess
  • Grade IIb: Moderate enlargement with extra skin
  • Grade III: Marked enlargement with extra skin

The therapy for each Grade varies according to the quantity of extra skin and ptosis.

Treatment for this illness begins with addressing any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the condition. If the ailment has been present for less than a year and the history and physical are within normal ranges, observation with close follow-up can be performed. If an underlying medicine is mentioned in the past, it should be stopped. If anything wrong is discovered during a physical exam, therapy will be determined by this result. Surgery is recommended if the underlying problem is cured and the issue persists for more than a year. In this case, liposuction and surgical excision can be used to treat patients with grades I or IIa. If the patient has grade IIb gynecomastia, open surgical excision with probable skin resection is recommended if there is a significant degree of ptosis.

In most situations, medical therapy does not function in the long run. In severe situations, drugs like as clomiphene, danazol, and tamoxifen have been used with different degrees of effectiveness. However, some medications have side effects that are not well tolerated.

 

The following section explores the non-surgical and surgical options for the treatment of gynecomastia. 

Non-Surgical Options

For men struggling with the condition known as gynecomastia, there can be an overwhelming sense of frustration and insecurity. This condition, characterized by enlarged breast tissue in males, can take a toll physically and emotionally if not adequately treated. 

Thankfully, non-surgical treatments for gynecomastia can offer effective results without requiring surgery or any complicated procedures. This section will discuss the various non-surgical treatment options available to those looking to reduce their symptoms of gynecomastia, including diet and lifestyle modifications, topical medications and herbal supplements.

 

Diet and lifestyle changes 

Improving lifestyle and dietary changes can be the key to reversing or reducing the effects of gynecomastia. Making lifestyle changes such as managing stress, avoiding drug abuse and alcohol, exercising regularly at least three times a week, and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce the size of your breasts. 

Although lifestyle and dietary modifications are not treatments per se, making these changes will undoubtedly aid in the process of improving your breast size and contour!

Our Top Diet and lifestyle tips 

  • Eating a balanced diet filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats can help reduce the size of gynecomastia. 

A balanced diet is the key to fat loss in men. Eating the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as eliminating processed foods and added sugars, can help create a sustainable weight-loss plan. It's important to get adequate amounts of all three macronutrients — protein, carbs and fat — every day for optimal health and fat loss. Protein is particularly important for men, as it helps preserve muscle mass while losing weight and provides essential amino acids needed for building and maintaining healthy muscles. 

Carbohydrates should be limited to complex sources such as whole grains and vegetables, which provide energy and fiber without spiking blood sugar levels. Good sources of dietary fat include avocados, nuts, and seeds, which provide essential fatty acids that the body can't produce. 

Additionally, eating small meals throughout the day helps to keep energy levels up and hunger at bay. Foods high in fiber are also beneficial for a balanced diet because they promote fullness and help to reduce cravings. 

Finally, staying properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for fat loss and overall health. By following these guidelines, men can create a balanced diet that will provide all the necessary nutrients for fat loss.

 

  • A focus on strength training has shown to be effective in eliminating excess fat deposits from the body

Exercising chest muscles is an effective way to firm up the skin around the chest area and improve overall body shape. Chest exercises such as pushups, pull-ups, and chest presses are great for targeting muscle growth around the pectoral area, helping to improve overall chest contours. These exercises help strengthen the pectoralis major muscle, increasing and leading to greater confidence in one’s appearance. Although these exercises do not work for everyone, many patients can see some improvement after six months of consistent exercise sessions. Here are our top three picks for chest exercises: 

  • A popular chest exercise for men is the bench press. This exercise works the pectoral muscles in the chest as well as the triceps and deltoids. It's essential to start with a lightweight and gradually increase the load as you become stronger. Proper form is essential for reducing the risk of injury and maximizing results. 
  • The bent-over barbell row is another excellent chest exercise for men. This exercise helps build strength in the upper back, shoulders, and arms while working the chest. To perform this exercise, stand with feet shoulder-width apart and bend at the waist, keeping your back straight. Grasp a barbell with an overhand grip and pull it towards your lower chest.
  • Pushups help develop strength in the chest, shoulders, and arms. Begin by assuming the plank position with your hands just wider than shoulder-width apart. Your toes should be touching the floor. Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor and press back up to the starting position.

 

  • Full-body strength training routines can help build lean muscle and make your body more toned and sculpted. 

Incorporating exercises that work for multiple muscle groups at once helps you save time in the gym by hitting all areas of the body in one session. A full-body strength training routine typically consists of compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, and overhead presses. These exercises target several muscle groups at once and involve multiple joints working together simultaneously to lift the weight. Doing these exercises regularly promotes overall strength gains across the entire body. 

Additionally, full-body strength training routines are great for calorie burning as they increase your heart rate and require a lot of energy to complete. As a result, you can see improvements in strength and conditioning over time. 

Finally, full-body training routines are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for all levels of fitness, from beginner to advanced. With proper form and technique, anyone can reap the many benefits of this type of exercise routine. So if you're looking for a comprehensive way to get stronger and burn calories, a full-body strength training routine may be the perfect fit. 

With dedication and focus, you can create an effective routine that will help you reach your fitness goals in no time! The best full-body workout programs consist of exercises that work multiple muscles at once, such as squats, push-ups, lunges, pull-ups, deadlifts, and planks. 

 

Topical medications

Topical medications for gynecomastia include gels, creams, and solutions that are designed to be applied directly to the skin. These medications can reduce the size of enlarged breast tissue and improve the appearance of breasts in those with gynecomastia. Some common topical medications used to treat gynecomastia include clomiphene citrate (Clomid), tamoxifen (Nolvadex), raloxifene (Evista), letrozole (Femara), and danazol (Danocrine). Usually, these medications are only available with a prescription from your doctor. 

It is important to note that these topical medications may not be suitable for all cases of gynecomastia. For example, if the condition is caused by hormones or some form of medication, then topical treatments may not be effective. Similarly, those with serious medical conditions should speak to their doctor before using any type of topical medication for gynecomastia treatment. 

It is important to note that while these medications can help reduce the size and appearance of enlarged breast tissue, they will not cure the underlying cause of gynecomastia in all cases. However, they can provide relief from symptoms associated with the condition and improve overall self-confidence. It is best to consult your doctor for an individualized care plan that takes into consideration your medical history, lifestyle factors, and other considerations when deciding the best course of treatment. 

The side effects associated with topical medications for gynecomastia vary depending on the type and strength of the medication used. Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, itching, burning, tingling, or flushing. If you experience these or any other side effects that become severe or persist, contact your healthcare provider right away. Taking proper precautions such as avoiding sunlight exposure and wearing protective clothing can help reduce the severity of these symptoms. 

With careful monitoring and use under medical supervision, topical medications can effectively reduce gynecomastia-related symptoms in some cases. It is important to talk to your doctor about all potential treatments before deciding what is right for you. They can provide information on the potential benefits and risks associated with your treatment decisions, helping you make an informed decision about how to proceed best. Additionally, they can help identify any other underlying conditions that may be causing or contributing to your gynecomastia symptoms. 

It is important to note that topical medications are not a cure-all for gynecomastia; they are intended only as a temporary solution to reduce symptoms while further medical management is sought. Because physiological causes of gynecomastia can vary significantly in each individual case, it is recommended that those suffering from this condition take additional measures such as lifestyle changes and dietary modifications to improve their overall health and well-being in addition to using topical medications.

 

Herbal Supplements

In addition to topical medications, a variety of herbal supplements are available for use in treating gynecomastia. Herbal supplements may be used as an alternative to traditional medications or adjunctive therapy alongside prescribed treatments. 

While there is limited scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of herbal supplements for gynecomastia, some herbs have been used traditionally to reduce enlarged male breast tissue and boost overall vitality. Commonly used herbs include saw palmetto, fenugreek, tribulus terrestris extract, and damiana. Saw palmetto is believed to reduce the effects of certain hormones that can cause tissue enlargement; fenugreek has been thought to promote normal testosterone-estrogen balance; tribulus terrestris is thought to help reduce breast enlargement; and damiana is said to increase circulation and boost overall vitality. 

It's essential to speak with your doctor before taking any herbal supplement, as they may interact with other medications or have side effects that can be risky. Additionally, buying supplements from reputable companies that use independent third-party testing for quality assurance is imperative. Supplements should also include a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that reviews the levels of active ingredients in the product. 

By researching potential supplements and consulting with your doctor, you can make an informed decision about using herbal therapies for gynecomastia.

It's important to remember that herbal therapies should never replace medical treatment for gynecomastia or any other condition. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement, especially if you already have existing health conditions or are taking prescription medications. Working together with a healthcare provider is the best way to ensure safe and effective treatment for gynecomastia and optimal health outcomes overall. 

 

Medication  - Pharmacological options 

Non-surgical treatments for gynecomastia usually involve medication as the first option of management. Depending on the diagnosis, hormones or medication can help reduce overall breast tissue and restore normal hormone levels. While medication may be necessary to treat underlying causes of gynecomastia such as hormonal imbalances, there is no guarantee of complete mammary gland tissue reduction. Non-surgical options must be discussed with a qualified specialist before commencing any course of treatment in order to ensure the desired outcome is achieved.

Medications, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors, are available to help reduce the size of breast tissue in men suffering from gynecomastia. These medications target excess amounts of hormones that cause enlarged breasts in men. When taken daily, over time, they can help reduce symptoms associated with gynecomastia.

One medication that has had success and is commonly prescribed for individuals with gynecomastia is tamoxifen, which helps reduce the amount of the hormone estrogen in the body, thus improving symptoms. While medication can be an effective short-term treatment, long-term results may not necessarily be achieved through medication alone; for more severe cases of gynecomastia it is highly recommended that medical professionals evaluate additional treatment options.

 

Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is a type of hormonal therapy commonly used to treat gynecomastia. It works by blocking the effects of estrogen, which is known to cause an increase in breast tissue size in some men. 

Tamoxifen has been found to be effective in reducing the size and pain associated with gynecomastia in many patients. In addition, it may also reduce the risk of developing other symptoms, such as nipple discharge and tenderness. Despite its success rate, tamoxifen does come with risks. These include nausea and vomiting, hot flashes, depression and anxiety, as well as an increased risk for certain types of cancers including uterine cancer and deep vein thrombosis. Therefore, discussing the potential risks with your doctor before deciding to take tamoxifen for gynecomastia is important. 

As always, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to reduce your risk of developing any type of health condition, including gynecomastia. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and avoiding alcohol consumption can help you stay healthy and ward off potential health issues. Additionally, getting regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy body weight, which may also minimize your risk of developing gynecomastia. Taking all of these steps can help you achieve your desired results when treating this condition. 

 

Surgical Options 

Gynecomastia surgery, often known as male breast reduction surgery (reduction mammaplasty), is a surgical treatment used to treat oversized male breasts. Gynecomastia can sometimes be severe enough to cause a sagging breast envelope, necessitating a breast lift.

 

Treating Gynecomastia with Liposuction

Gynecomastia with Liposuction

Liposuction is now being used by cosmetic surgeons to treat an increasing number of gynecomastia patients. This is due, in part, to advancements in liposuction technology, which has led in a broader range of less invasive methods. However, physician competence is also vital, and it is critical to select a cosmetic surgeon who is trained in liposuction and has particular experience conducting male breast reduction liposuction.

Liposuction for gynecomastia is often done under local anesthetic with sedation or general anesthesia, with a tiny incision on either side of the chest. Incisions may be made along the margin of the areola or within the armpit, depending on your preferences and your cosmetic surgeon's chosen approach. Your cosmetic surgeon will remove extra fat and/or glandular tissue through these incisions while also sculpting a new chest shape that looks natural to your physique.

The recuperation period after liposuction is usually pretty pleasant. Patients are frequently given a compression garment to wear for the first few weeks following surgery; this helps to reduce swelling and supports the healing tissues. While heavy activity is usually prohibited for 3 weeks, many men return to work or school within a few days following their surgeries. However, it is critical to note that everyone heals at their own speed; your cosmetic surgeon will provide you with personalized recovery recommendations.

 

Male Breast Reduction with Tissue Excision

Male Breast Reduction

To attain the best outcomes, more severe instances of gynecomastia may necessitate surgical tissue removal. Furthermore, individuals with stretched, sagging skin around the breasts would typically require this procedure. Tissue excisions allow a cosmetic surgeon to remove a bigger quantity of glandular tissue and/or skin that liposuction alone cannot address.

The length and position of the incisions are determined by the extent of the operation; however, they are usually situated around the border of the areola (peri-areolar incision) or inside the natural creases of the chest. A professional and competent cosmetic surgeon will put incisions in such a way that the resulting scars are as unobtrusive as feasible.

Male breast reduction with tissue excision is usually done as an outpatient treatment under general or local anesthesia with sedation. The healing period is comparable to that of liposuction; however, patients may have discomfort and edema. Patients are normally able to return to work within a week following surgery, and a gradual return to activity is usually tolerated within the first few weeks. 

 

Life After Male Breast Reduction

You should notice an instant improvement in the shape and look of your chest following gynecomastia surgery. While you may be uncomfortable for a few days, the discomfort should be mild. While your cosmetic surgeon will almost certainly prescribe some pain medicine, many men find that over-the-counter choices, like as Tylenol, are adequate. Wear a compression garment if you are provided one. This will improve your comfort and aid in the healing of your chest.

While every patient's healing phase is different, most patients are ready to return to work within a few days of having a male breast reduction, depending on the nature of their job. After a male breast reduction, some men suffer a lack of sensation in the treated regions, but this is usually always transient. Any sensory loss should return gradually in the months after your operation.

The extra fat, glandular tissue, and skin removed during male breast reduction are expected to be gone for good. It is, nonetheless, important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight gain, steroid usage, or certain medical problems may result in gynecomastia recurrence. Additionally, medicines that modify testosterone levels may have an impact on your findings. An expert, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon can teach you how to preserve your results in the long run.

If you have gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery may be the best option to treat this issue and make you feel more confident in your look. Consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon is the best method to learn about your alternatives.

 

What are Gynecomastia surgery complications?

In general, gynecomastia surgery is quite safe, and most patients recover quickly. Complications can arise even when the patient and surgeon pay the utmost attention to safety. Bruising, hemorrhage, fluid collections, contour abnormalities, loss of nipple skin, obvious scars, numbness of the nipples, inverted nipples, loose breast skin, and asymmetries are all common problems. Good results need attentive surgical technique and pre/peri/postoperative treatment.

If you think you have gynecomastia and wish to talk about treatment options, find a board-certified plastic surgeon in your region.

 

Conclusion 

The same way a woman has excess fat in the breast region happens to men. One such case that many people face is Gynecomastia. It is one of the most common health problems affecting males between their late teens and 40s. Overweight men having enlarged breasts can be an embarrassing condition that could affect their self-esteem, interpersonal relations as well as their quality of life. Gynecomastia is an increase in the volume of the male breast. This syndrome is particularly common at periods of hormonal transition, such as at birth, puberty, and old age. Obesity, steroid usage, use of certain other pharmacologic medications, and medical diseases such as hypogonadism, liver failure, and renal failure are all potential causes of this illness. However, gynecomastia is idiopathic in the vast majority of cases.

If you have Gynecomastia, then you should seek treatment options for Gynecomastia by talking to your healthcare provider. Ultimately, you should consult a doctor before trying any treatment. The doctor may prescribe medications or other treatments that can help clear up the gynecomastia. 

In the event that the default treatment is not able to remove the condition entirely, surgery may be an option. Since surgery solutions vary in effectiveness, you will have to determine if surgery or a surgical procedure is right for you based on your unique circumstances.

Cost is an important factor to consider when choosing Gynecomastia treatments. Most medical insurance plans do not cover the cost of male breast reduction or, as it is also referred to, gynecomastia correction surgery. The typical range of cost for gynecomastia correction varies from $4,000 to $7,000, so looking for medical tourism destinations to perform this surgery might be an option for you.