Gynecomastia is the term for when the breast tissue is enlarged in men. It causes a lot of mental anguish and can sometimes cause physical pain as well. There is hope, however. Surgery can help resolve the issue. Learn more about what causes this condition in the first place and what can potentially be done about it.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
The most obvious and common culprit of this condition is an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone. Estrogen is considered a primarily female hormone, and it is what controls the growth of breast tissue. When there is too much estrogen and not enough testosterone, gynecomastia can occur.
Certain factors make a man more likely to have a hormone imbalance and, therefore, enlarged breast tissue. They can include:
- Liver disease
- Kidney failure
- A poor diet
- Being overweight
- Tumors in either the adrenal glands or the testicles
- Hypogonadism
- Hypoandrogenism
- Hyperthyroidism
Men who are dealing with gynecomastia will also need to examine the medications they are taking. Certain ones have been known to cause or worsen the condition, including:
- Anabolic steroids
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (used to boost fertility)
- Calcium channel blockers
- Certain fungal medications
- Certain anxiety medications
- Proton pump inhibitors for heartburn
Additionally, street drugs can contribute to the issue. Marijuana, heroin, amphetamines, methadone, and even alcohol have been linked to the issue. Consulting with a professional is the best way to determine what the cause is in your cause and what to do about it.
Are There Other Symptoms of Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is literally defined as enlarged breast tissue in men, but this does not mean there are no other potential symptoms. If your breast tissue is tender or causing you pain, seek professional treatment. This is also true if you are experiencing discharge from one or both nipples.
Treatment for Gynecomastia
The most effective treatment for this condition is surgery. You can either undergo liposuction, which will simply remove excess fat in the area, or another type of procedure that reshapes the tissue in the area. There are several factors that go into deciding which option is right for you.
If you would like to learn more about gynecomastia and the available treatment options, feel free to set up an initial consultation at The Plastic Surgery Center. We are happy to answer questions and genuinely look forward to hearing from you. Contact us today to book your appointment at our office in Bradenton or Sarasota.
