About Gynecomastia By Qualified Plastic Surgeon

Gynecomastia is the condition in which there is enlargement of male breasts. It is a very common
condition which affects around 30-40% of the male population. In many people, the gynecomastia is so
minor that those people are not even aware of it while for others it is an embarrassing situation. These
people can not enjoy slim fitting shirts. They are hesitant to bare their chest during swimming.

They also feel awkward during physical intimacy.
The basic reason behind the development of gynecomastia is an imbalance between hormones testosterone estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone it is present in negligible amounts in males. If the ratio of
testosterone to estrogen is disturbed, gynecomastia develops. So the gynecomastia is commonly seen in
male babies, during teen ages or in elderly males.
In rare cases, gynecomastia can develop due to some endocrine diseases like thyroid or pituitary
dysfunctions or intake of certain drugs like steroids.
The evaluation of gynecomastia consists of clinical examination to determine the cause & grade of
gynecomastia, hormonal studies & investigations to rule out endocrine dysfunctions.
In adolescent gynecomastia resolves in the vast majority of case. If it persists then only treatment is
surgery.
Gynecomastia surgery is a combination of two methods. The fat component is removed by
liposuction & fibrous gland component is removed via a small incision around areola that is pigmented
part around the nipple. In a few patients with very large gynecomastia, some skin may also need to be
excised.
Gynecomastia surgery is done either local or general anesthesia depending upon the size. This is a day
care procedure and the majority of the patients are discharged on the same or next day. Most of the
patients return to day to day activity in 3-4 days & resume their work or job in a week.

Dr. Ashish Sangvikar
Plastic Surgeon in Navi Mumbai