What Is Gynecomastia: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

9 August 2024
Mr A. Siddiqui

Last updated on July 31, 2024

Gynecomastia, commonly referred to as “man boobs,” is a condition characterised by the enlargement of breast tissue in males. This condition can affect one or both breasts and can occur at any age. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options is essential for those affected.

Here, we will explore what gynecomastia is, its symptoms, causes, and various treatment options available, including lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical interventions.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast gland tissue in males due to an imbalance between the hormones oestrogen and testosterone. This condition is characterised by the growth of male breast tissue and is often associated with breast swelling and tenderness.

It is important to distinguish between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, the latter being the presence of excess fat in the chest area without the growth of glandular breast tissue.

Gynecomastia Symptoms

Recognising the symptoms of gynecomastia is the first step in seeking appropriate treatment. Common symptoms when you develop gynecomastia include:

Swollen breast tissue, which causes breast swelling
Breast tenderness
Nipple sensitivity
Uneven breast enlargement

Androgen receptors, which respond to male hormones like testosterone, may also influence the development and maintenance of glandular breast tissue in gynecomastia. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, both physically and emotionally.

Gynecomastia Causes

Understanding the underlying causes of gynecomastia is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. Some of the common causes include:

Hormonal Imbalance

Natural hormone changes: Gynecomastia can occur during puberty (pubertal gynecomastia) or ageing when hormone levels fluctuate, leading to breast tissue growth. Hormonal imbalances involving free testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and oestrogen can all contribute to breast development in males.
Medications: Certain drugs, such as anabolic steroids, anti-androgens, and some antidepressants, can lead to gynecomastia by affecting hormone levels and disrupting testosterone secretion.
Health conditions: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, and liver disease can cause hormonal imbalances by impacting the adrenal glands and pituitary gland, leading to male breast enlargement.

Additionally, treatments for prostate cancer, such as anti-androgen therapy, can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to the development of gynecomastia.

Lifestyle Factors

Substance abuse: Alcohol and drugs like marijuana, heroin, and amphetamines can contribute to the development of gynecomastia.
Diet and exercise: Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to obesity, which is linked to pseudogynecomastia, characterised by excess fat without true breast tissue growth.

Diagnosis of Gynecomastia

Diagnosing gynecomastia involves a combination of physical examinations and diagnostic tests.

Physical Exam

At Breast & Body Clinic, we will examine the breast tissue to check for glandular enlargement and tenderness. They will also assess other signs associated with gynecomastia, such as nipple sensitivity and uneven breast growth.

Blood Tests

Blood tests may be conducted to check hormone levels, including free testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and oestrogen, to determine hormonal imbalances that could lead to gynecomastia.

These tests can also help rule out other underlying conditions, such as issues with the adrenal glands or pituitary gland.

Imaging Tests

Mammography: Used to differentiate between gynecomastia and male breast cancer, ensuring that the breast growth is benign.
Ultrasound: Helps in assessing breast tissue to confirm the presence of glandular tissue and to evaluate the extent of breast swelling and growth associated with gynecomastia.

Treatment Options for Gynecomastia

Lifestyle Changes

Implementing lifestyle changes can help manage gynecomastia symptoms:

Regular exercise: A combination of cardio and strength training can help reduce overall body fat.
Healthy diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Avoidance of substances: Staying away from alcohol, drugs, and medications known to cause gynecomastia.

Medications

Certain medications can be prescribed to treat gynecomastia:

Tamoxifen: A selective oestrogen receptor modulator (SERM) used to reduce breast gland tissue.
Aromatase inhibitors: Such as anastrozole, which reduces oestrogen production.

Surgery

For persistent gynecomastia that does not respond to other treatments, surgical options are available:

Liposuction: This procedure removes excess fat from the chest area but does not remove the glandular breast tissue.

Liposuction is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time, making it a popular choice for patients with pseudogynecomastia or combined fat and glandular tissue.
Mastectomy: This surgery involves the removal of glandular breast tissue through small incisions. Mastectomy can be done using minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic surgery, which reduces scarring and speeds up recovery.

This option is particularly effective for patients with significant glandular tissue growth that cannot be reduced through liposuction alone.

Risks and Complications of Treatment

As with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and complications to consider:

Medications: Side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and bone thinning.
Surgery: Risks include infection, scarring, and changes in nipple sensation.

Recovery Process After Surgery

Recovery from gynecomastia surgery typically involves:

Rest and limited activity: To ensure proper healing.
Follow-up appointments: To monitor recovery progress.
Wearing compression garments: To reduce swelling and support the chest area.

Long-Term Outlook

The long-term outlook for individuals with gynecomastia is generally positive, especially with appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Prevention Tips

Preventing gynecomastia involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

Regular exercise: To maintain a healthy weight.
Healthy diet: To support hormonal balance.
Avoidance of substances: Limiting alcohol and avoiding drugs known to cause gynecomastia.

Consult with a Leading Plastic Surgeon at Breast & Body Clinic UK for Your Gynecomastia Treatment Needs

Choosing to undergo treatment for gynecomastia can be a transformative step towards achieving your desired body contours and enhancing your confidence. By understanding the common areas affected by gynecomastia and the different types of procedures available, you can make informed decisions about the best options for your unique needs.

If you’re interested in gynecomastia treatment, speak to our friendly team today and book a free consultation. At Breast & Body Clinic UK, we can help you determine the most suitable approach for your individual goals and expectations. Our experienced cosmetic surgeons will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.

FAQs

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males caused by an imbalance of oestrogen and testosterone hormones. This condition can affect one or both breasts and may occur at any age, including during puberty or later in life. It is important to differentiate it from pseudogynecomastia, which is breast enlargement due to excess fat.

How to tell if you have gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is typically identified by the presence of swollen breast gland tissue, breast tenderness, and nipple sensitivity. These symptoms can be accompanied by uneven breast enlargement. A healthcare provider can diagnose gynecomastia through a physical examination and diagnostic tests such as blood tests and imaging studies.

What does gynecomastia look like?

Gynecomastia presents as enlarged breasts in males, which may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The breast tissue is usually firm or rubbery to the touch and may be accompanied by tenderness. In some cases, the nipples may also become more sensitive or swollen.

What are the treatment options for gynecomastia?

Treatment options for gynecomastia include lifestyle changes to improve diet and exercise habits, medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors to address hormonal imbalances, and surgical interventions. Surgical options, such as liposuction and mastectomy, are considered for more severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective.

The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner

About The Author

Mr A. Siddiqui

Mr Siddiqui is a Consultant Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, based at The Countess of Chester Hospital in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He trained extensively in plastic surgery before becoming a Consultant in the NHS and developing a private practice in Manchester and other areas of the Northwest. He is considered to be one of the top 10 cosmetic surgeons in Manchester.

Gynecomastia: What Is It, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment