Male breast enlargement or gynecomastia is more common than many a man would like to admit. It has a prevalence of up to 70% in adolescent boys and can also take effect in men of adult age. Nevertheless, gynecomastia remains a significant source of shame and ignorance regarding the condition prevails. Some people regard it as disgraceful or humiliating, and this leads to psychological complications due to non-treatment.
What is Gynecomastia?
In males, it means the formation of breasts due to glandularity. It is associated more with hormonal disturbances, out of which it is usually linked to high estrogen with testosterone. This imbalance can show up at puberty, and it has been seen through temporary breast development in most male children. In adults, it may stem from hormonal changes characteristic of ageing, some drugs, or other medical conditions.
Causes of Gynecomastia:
Hormonal changes are the most widespread factor contributing to the development of gynecomastia. Puberty is another common reason temporary breast tissue may develop in females since hormones stimulate breast tissue formation during this age. Thus, lower testosterone levels or higher estrogen levels in elderly males will do the same thing.
Other factors can cause gynecomastia, such as the use of such drugs as those that treat the prostate conditions and particular types of antidepressants. Sometimes, the cause could be other diseases, such as tumours that might lead to hormonal changes.
Symptoms and Diagnosis:
Male breast cancer signs include breast enlargement and hardness that may indicate having Gynecomastia. First of all, the disease should not be confused with other similar processes, such as breast cancer, though the latter is a rather rare occurrence in males. Diagnosis can be done through physical examination, history taking and, in some cases, ultrasound or mammography to exclude other causes and confirm diagnosis.
Is Gynecomastia Shameful?
Men and cultures have different attitudes towards Gynecomastia, and they perceive it to be shameful. Some people may feel embarrassed or shy as such looks are still violating the norms of male grooming in many societies. But it is crucial to repeat that gynecomastia is an extensive disease that is treated with the help of a doctor and has no relation to one’s choices or sins.
Therefore, male patients with gynecomastia can seek medical advice on the cause of this ailment and how to manage it. Thus, appropriate support from the environment and a more permissive discussion of body variability can also help reduce feelings of shame for gynecomastia.
Psychological Impact of Gynecomastia:
This condition has several emotional and mental health repercussions that affect the lives of those living with gynecomastia. Some suffer low self-esteem and embarrassment because their body structure has changed or has not met society’s standards. This results in anxiety and depression, especially when accepting the fellowship of peers during the adolescent stage.
Cultural and perception influence and personal experience significantly play a role in gynecomastia. Some people can feel embarrassed or lonely as they believe they are alone in facing such issues. This misconception deepens these feelings, as it is difficult for such people to talk about gynecomastia or seek assistance.
Treatment for Gynecomastia:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
If you have mild signs of breast development, then nonoperative management is ideal for you. Some medications, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, slow the development of the breast tissues due to hormonal factors. Change of diet and exercise regimen and stopping anything that might cause gynecomastia, such as alcohol and certain drugs are also helpful.
Surgical Options:
Surgery may be performed for refractory or substantial gynecomastia. The most typical operation is gynecomastia, which treats enlarged breast tissues and modifies the male chest shape. Liposuction may remove fatty tissue, and excision techniques remove the glandular material. This surgery is rather uncomplicated; the patient can undergo it to enhance their chest considerably.
Cost of Gynecomastia surgery in Islamabad:
The cost of gynecomastia surgery in Islamabad range from PKR 145,000 to PKR 340,000.However it also vary depending on;
- The doctor’s experience,
- The hospital or Clinic’s facility, and
- The kind of surgery needed.
Consultation:
When taken extreme, some people may have to undergo procedures like Male Breast Reduction Surgery to have their self-esteem restored and go back to a normal life.
Dynamic Clinic PK offers services for removing gynecomastia. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with us to explore how we can assist you in getting the chest that you desire and improving your living standard.
