Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia Treatment & Surgery in MRC Nagar, Chennai

Gynecomastia is the swelling of the male breast tissue which is caused due to hormonal imbalance. The breast gland in boys or men swells due to reduced male hormones (testosterone) or an increase in female hormones (estrogen). It can affect one or both breasts. This isn’t a serious problem, but consult a doctor who specializes in hormone-related problems near you.

What are the symptoms of gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is not a serious problem but sometimes it may cause self-consciousness and affect self-confidence. So consult a gynecomastia surgery doctor in Chennai. Some symptoms that you may see are:

• Swollen breast tissue
• Breast tenderness
• The areola that surrounds the nipple may increase in size
• Nipple discharge in one or both breasts

How is this caused?

Gynecomastia is caused by natural hormonal changes. Testosterone is a naturally occurring, primary sex hormone in a male body that is responsible for all male sex characteristics and in the development of male reproductive tissues. Estrogen is also present in the male body but it’s very low as compared to the amount of testosterone.

• In infants: newborn babies have a high amount of estrogen due to their mother’s hormones. It usually goes back to normal after two to three weeks following birth but it may last longer in some babies.
• During puberty: when a child goes through puberty, there are many hormonal changes, so it’s quite common in teenagers. Breast enlargement usually goes away after some time, but if it doesn’t, then it may be due to some underlying disease. 
• In adults: With age, the male body produces less amount of testosterone which is the reason for breast enlargement in older people.

Other causes may include obesity, lack of proper nutrition and liver disease. Many medications may also result in gynecomastia.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors for gynecomastia include:

• Old age
• Certain health conditions such as liver disease and kidney disease
• Consuming alcohol
• Taking illegal drugs such as heroin, marijuana
• Adolescence

When should you see a doctor?

Usually, breast enlargement in men is not a matter of concern but if you have sharp pain, tenderness, nipple discharge from one or both breasts or swelling in the area, consult a urology doctor near you.

You can also request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, MRC Nagar, Chennai

By Calling 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

How is this treated?

Most cases of gynecomastia heal on their own. But if the cause is an underlying disease, you must consult a doctor who specializes in problems related to hormonal changes. Your doctor will first try to find the cause of swelling of the breast gland tissue and ask about the medications you are already taking. An endocrinologist will suggest you stop taking a particular medicine if it’s the cause. Surgery is only recommended if you have severe breast pain, otherwise it’s not necessary.

Request an appointment at the Apollo Hospitals, MRC Nagar, Chennai

By Calling 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

Conclusion

Low testosterone and gynecomastia are quite common in men. Talking to your doctor about your problem may be awkward, but he/she can help you by suggesting a suitable treatment option. If you feel self-conscious and embarrassed, you can talk to a therapist about your concerns.