Gynaecomastia (Male Breast)

Home | Procedures | Gynaecomastia (Male Breast)

What is gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia (male breast) is an abnormal condition characterised by breast enlargement in males. Occasionally, they may also secrete milk.

Male gynaecomastia can affect either one or both breasts. Generally, gynaecomastia does not produce any harmful effects on the body, but it may induce undue stress and embarrassment that can affect the active sex life of the affected individual. Male gynaecomastia can also cause psychological damage or loss of self-esteem in adolescents.

What are the causes of male gynaecomastia?

Based on the physiological and pathological factors responsible for gynaecomastia, the common causes of gynaecomastia have been listed below.

Physiological

The physiological changes responsible for gynaecomastia are commonly seen in the following age groups:

New-born:Due to the presence of maternal hormones circulating in blood
Adolescence:Due to hormonal changes that are temporary and may disappear as the hormonal levels stabilise
Increased age and weight:Production of testosterone declines with age while fat cells stimulate the secretion of female hormone oestrogen

Pathological

The various pathological causes of gynaecomastia are as follows:

Certain medication such as antipsychotics and anabolic steroids cause gynaecomastia as a side effect
Increased levels of oestrogen due to various conditions such as obesity, hyperthyroidism, malnourishment, adrenal tumours and testicular tumours
Decreased or lack of testosterone production due to conditions such as Klinefelter’s syndrome, viral orchitis and renal failure
Chronic kidney or liver disease
HIV infection
Chronic illness
In some cases, gynaecomastia may be induced secondary to spinal cord injury or re-feeding after starvation; however, the underlying cause for this form of gynaecomastia remains unknown.

How can gynaecomastia be diagnosed?

The diagnosis of gynaecomastia includes a physical examination. Occasionally, a mammogram may be ordered to exclude any other abnormality of the breast tissue.

How can gynaecomastia be treated?

The non-surgical methods employed for management of gynaecomastia include:

In case of drug induced gynaecomastia, replacement of the offending drug with an alternative and safer medication
Medical treatment of the underlying disease conditions causing gynaecomastia
In patients not responding to non-surgical options, surgery is considered as the last option. The surgical methods for management of gynaecomastia include:
- Liposuction
- Gland excision
- Skin sculpture
- Reduction mammoplasty
- Combination of the surgical techniques mentioned above

The basic steps involved in surgery are as follows:

The surgery can be performed under general or sedation with local anaesthesia.
A small incision is made below the areola region of the breast.
Excessive breast tissue is surgically removed.
Excessive fat is removed by liposuction.
The incision is sutured.
Normally, the surgery takes about 90 minutes. After surgery, patients are often advised to wear an elastic pressure garment or ace bandage that promotes healing. Patients are also advised rehabilitation exercises for at least 3 weeks, and can return to normal activities in 6 weeks.

What are the complications associated with gynaecomastia surgery?

The possible complications associated with gynaecomastia surgery include:

Infection
Change in position or shape of the nipple
Numbness
Swelling
Bruising
Scarring
Haematoma (accumulation of blood)

Book Your Appointment Today!

See a consultant without the wait.

Dr. Mansoor

Specialist Cosmetic & Plastic Surgeon

B Med Sci MBBS FRACS (Plas)

Dr. Marjan Yazdian

General Practitioner

Specialities

Breast Augmentation Package

Terms and conditions apply

Breast Implant

Breast Lift / Reduction

Breast Reconstruction