Gynecomastia can occur in men at any age and there can be several causes. In addition to the natural development of the condition, which is usually temporary, there may be more serious reasons for breast enlargement.
The problem can be caused by an excess of female hormones and the testosterone form of gynecomastia typical for bodybuilding, where men take synthetic steroids, is also common. Gynecomastia can also occur temporarily during puberty and can be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle or certain diseases that cause swelling of the male mammary glands. It also occurs in newborns due to the influence of sex hormones from the mother's body.
It is important to recognize whether it is not a tumor disease, which is rare. The problem can also be caused by other diseases related to the liver, kidneys, or most commonly the thyroid gland. In gynecomastia, men experience breast enlargement related more to the enlargement of glandular tissue than fatty tissue.
At the beginning of the disease, the breasts are more sensitive and softer to the touch. Later, the mammary gland enlarges and if the problem is not addressed, the breast can grow to the size of a medium-sized female breast. Breast enlargement is usually concentrated around the nipples. The last stage can lead to skin problems and inflammation and associated skin redness can occur.
The choice of surgical technique depends on the degree of enlargement of the mammary glands. In the case of minor gynecomastia, the incision is made in the lower part of the areola, at the border of the areola and the skin. The entire mammary gland is removed. If pseudogynecomastia is diagnosed, liposuction of the breast area is performed. Different correction procedures are chosen for the removal of large gynecomastia.
Basic Information
- Surgical removal of the enlarged mammary gland is performed under general anesthesia
- Duration of the procedure is 1 – 3 hours
- Postoperative scar is usually not visible
- 1-day hospitalization is required after the procedure
- Healing time is usually 2 – 3 weeks
- During this period, it is recommended to completely avoid muscle strain
- A compression garment is worn for better healing
- Approximately 6 – 8 weeks after the procedure, gradual muscle strain with exercises supporting skin elasticity can begin