Increase in fatty tissue under the breast may also give the appearance of enlarged breasts – this is called pseudogynecomastia
Why does gynecomastia occur?
Due to an imbalance of sex hormones in the body, the breast tissue enlarges.
Imbalances occur due to multiple reasons like increased body fat, phases of growth like puberty, old age.
it can also occur when the person takes medications like steroids-for body building.
What is pubertal gynecomastia?
It is breast enlargement occurring in boys during puberty/sexual maturity – between ages 10-15.
it is a normal part of growth of children,
Normally it resolves on its own within 2 years from onset in 75% of affected children.
It can cause psychological issues or social embarrassment to the child because of bullying by peers or others.
If it does not resolve by the end of 1-2 years, it is best to get it checked and corrected if necessary.
When to worry?
Single side enlargement of breast, sudden, painful, hard enlargement – could be an indicator of more serious issue.
Any discharge from nipple
In pubertal children – when other signs of maturity are delayed
Clinical classification of gynaecomastia
Newborn gynaecomastia • A physiological response to high levels of maternal and placental oestrogen transferred in utero. • A secretion sometimes called witch’s milk can often be expressed.
Newborn gynaecomastia • A physiological response to high levels of maternal and placental oestrogen transferred in utero. • A secretion sometimes called witch’s milk can often be expressed.
Adult gynaecomastia (physiological) • A physiological response to the decrease in free testosterone and the increase in adipose tissue that often accompanies aging. • Testosterone is converted to oestrogen in adipose tissue.
Adult gynaecomastia (non-physiological) • A response to increased oestrogen effect relative to androgen effect from a cause other than aging.
Pseudogynaecomastia • Male breast enlargement entirely due to adipose tissue.
Best time for surgery of simple gynecomastia
Between 1-2 years of onset of problem.
Because the gland becomes fibrotic/hard and difficult to remove as time progress.
What are the treatment options?
The treatment depends on your age, grade and reason for gynecomastia.
Medical treatment is tried for selected patients with hormonal issues and early stages of problem.
Surgical options
In simple GRADE 1 and 2 gynecomastia – liposuction and gland removal are done.
In patients with excess skin – use of energy based devices like LASER and VASER can improve skin.
contraction after surgery.
Patients with very large breasts and excess skin – may need removal of excess skin surgically to have better results, but as a consequence will have larger surgical scars.
What are the scars like?
In smaller to medium glands – usually well hidden scars in axilla(arm pit) crease, around the areola (pigmented part of the around nipple).
Very large glands might require skin excision, depending on your skin health,elasticity, pigmentation and preference, scar may be designed
What to expect in recovery
1 day of rest at home/hospital;
2 weeks restricted high physical activity – can start work from very next day.
6 weeks of moderate restriction of gymming activity – graduated increase will be suggested
Common complications
Bleeding, seroma/fluid accumulation, swelling hardness for prolonged duration may be expected in first few days.
Nerve related pain or altered sensation-temporary but bothersome in few patients
Scar and healing related issues specially in smokers,other health conditions
Does the issue recur?
It has been reported to recur in cases of predominantly fatty breasts – life style modification is required to prevent it.
Does gynecomastia surgery protect against breast cancer?
Gynecomastia surgery by liposuction and gland excision does not protect against breast cancer.
About 5-8% of the superficial gland is retained under the nipple to avoid depression in the area.
What factors can influence the outcome of surgery?
Your general health – influences your recovery and healing
A history of smoking – negatively affects your healing, by decreasing oxygen supply to operated area.
Poor lifestyle choices – excessive weight gain can lead to recurrences in fatty component of breast
Poor skin quality – indicated by stretch marks – influence the way your skin contracts after surgery
Tendency for keloid/scar formation due to genetic factors.
What measures can be taken to improve outcome of surgery?
Maintaining healthy lifestyle and stopping smoking few months before surgery improve overall recovery.
Adherence to post operative instructions including wearing pressure garments, massages fasten the recovery.
You can also opt for lipo-sculpting to enhance the appearance of your upper body and give a gym like look for your Pecs.
What is VASER Liposuction
VASER is an energy based device (ultrasound) used prior to liposuction.
It can make the removal of fat, gland easier
it can improve the skin contraction after surgery in patients with moderate excess skin.
What else?
Remember that you are not alone in this.
Numbers suggest that upto 65% boys experience breast enlargement during growth/puberty
Of those affected by pubertal gynecomastia- 75% may spontaneously improve.
If it is taking longer than a year to improve – meet a doctor
Aging men are also affected -upto 70% men over 60 years old are affected – watch out for your general health and get tested for testicular and prostate problems.
Gym goers who take steroids also get frequently affected and require gland excision.
If you are feeling unhappy about your breasts get help from qualified professionals in surgery,endocrinology. Do not let gynecomastia affect other aspects of your health and mental well being.
Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of male breast tissue, can occur due to hormonal imbalances, genetics, or certain medications. It often affects self-esteem and physical comfort.
Dr. Chandana’s gynecomastia surgery effectively removes excess fat and glandular tissue, restoring a flatter and more masculine chest contour. This safe and effective procedure is tailored to each individual’s needs, offering long-lasting results.
Gynecomastia Surgery is a procedure designed to treat enlarged male breast tissue, a condition that can affect men of all ages and often results from hormonal imbalances, genetics, or certain medications. This condition can cause emotional distress, reduced self-esteem, and physical discomfort. Dr. Chandana Guduru specializes in gynecomastia surgery, offering a safe and effective solution to restore a flatter, more masculine chest. The procedure typically involves the removal of excess fat and glandular tissue through liposuction or excision, depending on the severity. Benefits of gynecomastia surgery include:
Restored chest contour with a more masculine, sculpted appearance.
Improved self-confidence by eliminating the appearance of enlarged breasts.
Permanent results when following proper post-surgery care and lifestyle.
Minimal scarring thanks to Dr. Chandana’s meticulous approach to the surgery. Recovery is typically quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few weeks. Dr. Chandana ensures that every procedure is personalized to meet your goals, delivering natural and satisfying results.