Gynecomastia is caused by an imbalance between testosterone and oestrogen hormones, which regulate sex characteristics in both men and women.
Hormonal imbalance can occur at any age, and treatment often is necessary to restore equilibrium between these hormones.
India boasts a number of highly skilled and experienced doctors including the best cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai, making it one of the best destinations for cosmetic surgery in India.
Causes
Gynecomastia is a condition in which the glandular tissue in your breasts becomes enlarged, leading to discomfort or nipple tenderness. This condition typically arises due to hormonal imbalance and can affect either boys or men from infancy through middle age.
Infants may experience gynecomastia when their hormone levels shift during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This could occur because the mother’s hormones remain in the baby’s blood for some time after delivery, or certain drugs can cause estrogen levels to rise.
Adolescents may experience gynecomastia when their hormone levels shift during puberty. Usually, this condition resolves on its own within six to two years of beginning treatment with our best cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai.
Some medications can lead to gynecomastia by inhibiting or suppressing testosterone production. This could occur if you’re taking drugs to treat prostate cancer or other medical conditions. If you suspect that your drug may be responsible, speak with your doctor about discontinuing use.
Symptoms
Gynecomastia is an uncommon condition that can affect men and boys alike. While not linked to breast cancer, it can make you feel self-conscious and lead to emotional problems such as depression or eating disorders.
Symptoms may include enlarged breasts and a lump of fatty tissue under the nipple, which may be tender or sore.
Most cases of gynecomastia resolve on their own within 6 months to 2 years. However, if it’s caused by a hormone abnormality or other medical condition, treatment may be necessary.
A physical examination can help the doctor identify the source of the problem to plan your gynecomastia surgery in Mumbai. They will use their thumb and forefinger on each side of the breast to palpate (squeeze) it slowly from outer part to center.
Diagnosis
To determine the cause of gynecomastia, perform a physical examination and medical history. This can help identify whether your breasts have become enlarged due to hormonal imbalance caused by an underlying condition like cancer of the testicles, pituitary gland or adrenal glands.
The doctor will also review a person’s medications to identify any that could potentially lead to gynecomastia. Certain antipsychotic and anti-nausea medications have been known to occasionally trigger this issue.
Drugs containing oestrogen, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), may also lead to gynecomastia. Other medications that may contribute include ulcer drugs like cimetidine (Tagamet HB), tricyclic antidepressants and some cancer treatments like tamoxifen.
Gynecomastia in newborns is usually temporary and resolves within a few weeks after delivery. However, up to 20% of men may experience it into adulthood.
The gynecomastia surgery cost in Mumbai can vary based on the extent of the procedure and the surgeon’s experience, but it is generally more affordable than in many other countries.
Treatment
Gynecomastia is often caused by an imbalance of hormones. Men and women produce male hormones called testosterone and female hormones called oestrogen at different rates, so when there’s an imbalance, breast tissue may expand.
Gynecomastia usually resolves on its own without medical intervention; however, in severe cases or when it’s leading to other health issues, a doctor may suggest hormone therapy, breast reduction surgery, or another treatment option.
Gynecomastia can affect infants, adolescents and older men of any age group; it usually resolves during puberty but may persist beyond this milestone in up to 20% of individuals.
Some women may experience gynecomastia as a sign of breast cancer. If this is the case, your doctor will perform tests to rule out cancer. Additionally, be sure to visit your doctor if you notice a lump of fatty tissue under your nipple or tenderness in your breasts – both symptoms which could indicate breast cancer could be the source.
