Everything you need to know about gynecomastia or ‘man boobs’
Understanding gynecomastia
Gynecomastia treatment is essential for addressing enlarged male breasts, but alternatives are available based on individual needs and conditions. Gynecomastia is a condition in which male breast tissue enlarges, causing a rubbery mass around the nipple that may be tender or painful. Typically, it is a non-cancerous condition colloquially known as ‘man boobs.’
It often occurs during puberty due to hormonal changes but can affect newborns and aging men. As a result of an endocrinological imbalance with increased estrogen, gynecomastia may lead to breast tenderness and changes in nipple color or position. Gynecomastia may cause consciousness about physical appearance in men.
What are the symptoms of gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia symptoms include:
- Enlarged breast tissue.
- Pain and tenderness, especially in teenagers.
- Sensitive nipples when they rub against clothes.
- Fat and lump tissue beneath the nipple, which may be sore.
- “Saggy” breast appearance.
- Firm or rubbery Mass.
- Asymmetric growth.
- Changes in nipple’s color or position.
What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia causes include:
Gynecomastia results from a hormonal imbalance between estrogen and testosterone levels. Both hormones play crucial roles in various bodily functions. Estradiol, the primary estrogen, influences reproduction, bone health, and metabolism. Testosterone, the primary androgen, controls masculine characteristics. When estradiol levels surpass testosterone levels, it can lead to gynecomastia. Puberty and aging can trigger hormonal changes, causing gynecomastia, but in many cases, the condition resolves on its own or can be managed with medication.
Gynecomastia can result from drugs and treatments affecting the balance of estradiol and testosterone. Medications like antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, anabolic steroids, and HIV/AIDS medications, as well as substances such as marijuana and heroin, may contribute to hormonal imbalances, leading to the development of enlarged breast tissue in men.
Gynecomastia can be caused by various health issues affecting the balance between testosterone and estradiol. Conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, hypogonadism, tumors, hyperthyroidism, liver disease, kidney failure, and malnutrition may result in the development of enlarged breast tissue in men.
Medical conditions, including liver and kidney diseases, cancer, congenital disorders, thyroid disorders, and obesity, can disrupt hormone balance and contribute to gynecomastia.
Newborn males may experience temporary gynecomastia due to the presence of their mother’s estrogen, which lingers in their blood after birth. This condition typically manifests as enlarged breast tissue and resolves naturally within a few weeks as the effects of maternal estrogen diminish.
Gynecomastia treatment procedure?
Gynecomastia treatment includes:
Liposuction Gynecomastia Correction
Liposuction for Gynecomastia correction in Dubai is viable for minor corrections with good skin elasticity. The surgeon makes a small incision near the areola, using liposuction to remove excess fat and draw out underlying glandular tissue. The incisions are carefully closed to minimize noticeable scarring. This technique is effective for pseudo-gynecomastia as well.
Liposuction is a less invasive procedure with a quick recovery, suitable for individuals of average weight who do not smoke. The process involves numbing the area and inserting small tubes to suction out excess fat, resulting in a slimmer, contoured chest.
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended for gynecomastia cases involving excess glandular tissue and fat. The procedure, conducted by a skilled surgeon, involves a small incision in the nipple/areolar region to remove tissue, followed by liposuction if necessary. The surgeon tightens any excess skin for a more contoured appearance.
Recovery takes about two to four weeks, allowing a return to normal activities, including weight-lifting, after four weeks. The surgery aims to restore a typical male breast shape, addressing factors like glandular tissue, fat, fibrous tissue, muscle, and skin for enhanced confidence in one’s appearance.
Monitoring and treating underlying conditions
The approach to gynecomastia treatment varies based on its severity and underlying cause. For mild cases associated with regular physiological changes like puberty, healthcare professionals may recommend monitoring and reassurance, as gynecomastia often resolves on its own.
Treatment options include careful observation to see if the condition improves naturally, prescribing medications to balance hormones, or, in more severe cases, surgery to remove excess breast tissue. Addressing underlying medical needs or adjusting medications may also be part of the treatment plan.
Medications
Medications are sometimes prescribed to address gynecomastia, aiming to reduce breast tissue and alleviate symptoms. Three classes of medical treatment include:
- Androgens (e.g., testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, danazol).
- Anti-estrogens (clomiphene citrate, tamoxifen).
- Aromatase inhibitors (letrozole, anastrozole).
Choose Dr. Juan Carlos for Gynecomastia Treatment
Dr. Juan Carlos is one of Dubai’s most compassionate plastic & best gynecomastia surgeons. His standing, credibility, and expertise among his peers are unmatched. His patients see astounding results when his artistic talent is combined with his extensive medical skill. Besides, he strictly follows all safety standards and carefully assists you in the post-operative phase.