GYNECOMASTIA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

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GYNECOMASTIA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Dr. Miguel Mota | Plastic Surgery
Published by Dr Miguel Mota in Surgery · 29 March 2021
Tags: menmansurgerybreastgynecomastiamalesurgerytaboo
What is gynecomastia?

The development of the mammary glands affects a large percentage of the male population to varying degrees. A man with gynecomastia may have 1 or 2 affected breasts. The problem usually starts at puberty, but may go away on its own during adolescence. For this reason, surgery is only performed on adults.

In addition, it is important to clarify that men with gynecomastia cannot correct the problem with intensive exercise or with diets; only cosmetic surgery can restore their torso to a more masculine appearance.

How do you know if a man has gynecomastia rather than just a build-up of fat?

Some men who believe they have gynecomastia actually only have adipomastia, that is to say an excess of fatty tissue: it has nothing to do with the development of the mammary glands. The good news is that adipomastia can most of the time be corrected with weight loss, training, and dietary changes. Where appropriate, liposuction performed by an experienced surgeon is required for best results.

A man who is wondering if he has an enlarged mammary gland can do a self-exam of his pecs. If he sees a lump behind or under his nipple, it's probably gynecomastia. Anyway, to get the facts straight, it is best to make an appointment with a doctor who will confirm the diagnosis.

What are the causes of gynecomastia?

It is difficult to establish precisely the causes of gynecomastia. However, some factors have been associated with this condition, including:

  • An imbalance of hormones;
  • A genetic peculiarity;
  • Side effects of certain drugs;
  • Regular consumption of cannabis;
  • Taking anabolic steroids.



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