A healthy adult male should never, under normal circumstances, develop large breasts. Therefore, the presence of visible tissue in the male chest is evidence of pathology or a disorder named Gynecomastia.
Although Gynecomastia is not harmful, it does represent evidence of an underlying condition that may, itself, be harmful. Additionally, Gynecomastia generates severe emotional distress and insecurities in the majority of men who have it. Therefore, it is essential that we learn as much as possible about this common condition and ways in which to treat it.
WHAT, EXACTLY, IS GYNECOMASTIA?
Gynecomastia can best be described as the abnormal enlargement of a man’s breasts. It typically starts as a noticeable mass of subcutaneous mammary tissue, which may be firm or have a spongy consistency.
The initial mass may be as small as 1 cm or as large as 10 cm in diameter. It is typically located behind the nipple during its initial formation. Gynecomastia can develop on one or both sides of the chest, and it may present with or without asymmetry.
WHAT CAUSES GYNECOMASTIA TO DEVELOP?
Gynecomastia is typically associated with hyperprolactinemia, which is the presence of abnormally high levels of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a special kind of hormone that is secreted by the pituitary gland and which stimulates milk production in mammals, usually females, as well as the synthesis of progesterone in the body. Thus, when a man’s prolactin levels rise to sufficiently elevated levels, a few things occur. Adrenal function becomes impaired, electrolyte imbalances develop, libido drops, the prostate becomes compromised, and testicle function is affected. However, the most common side effect of hyperprolactinemia in men is breast enlargement. In extreme cases, some men may even begin to lactate.
Gynecomastia may also be caused by liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, and other chronic conditions that affect the hormonal balance in the body. Some medications have also been linked to the sudden appearance of Gynecomastia in men.
HOW IS GYNECOMASTIA DIAGNOSED?
Gynecomastia is the world’s most common pathology that affects male breast tissue. While overweight and obese men usually develop a form of Gynecomastia called pseudo-Gynecomastia, it typically resolves with proper diet, exercise, and other positive lifestyle changes. However, it is crucial that a proper diagnosis is reached. And to do so, pre-operative mammography is typically performed, the results of which are used to determine the most appropriate treatment options. For example, in cases where mammography reveals the presence of fat but no other abnormal tissue, a liposuction procedure is recommended. In cases where glandular tissue is detected, an adenectomy may be necessary.
Thankfully, the recovery time for a gynecomastia surgical procedure is quite short, and the results are almost immediate. Don’t let Gynecomastia affect your confidence and self-esteem. If you feel uncomfortable with the appearance of your chest, or feel that your enlarged breasts are adversely affecting your life, there is a solution. Consult with one of our aesthetic surgeons in Sydney Brisbane at Esteem Cosmetic Studio and find out which type of surgical procedure is right for you.
Interested in Gynecomastia Surgery? Call the team at Esteem Cosmetic Studio on 1300 378 336 and schedule an appointment for an in-depth consultation.
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