Wisma Atria #22-04 | Mon-Thu: 10AM - 6PM | Fri: 10AM - 8PM | Sat: 10AM - 3PM | Sun & PH: Closed | Tel: +6567349988 |
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, often referred to as "man boobs" in Singapore. This condition results from an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone hormones, leading to the proliferation of glandular tissue in the male breast.
Gynaecomastia is a common condition that affects males of all ages in Singapore. It is normally observed in adolescents due to hormonal changes during puberty and in older men due to declining testosterone levels and other health factors.
While it is usually not a serious or life-threatening condition, as gynaecomastia develops [1] due to benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of breast tissue, it still warrants attention due to its various physical and psychological impacts. Some individuals may experience tenderness or pain in the affected breast tissue. Many men with gynaecomastia also experience significant psychological distress, including feelings of embarrassment, low self-esteem, and social anxiety. This mental health impact can deter individuals from seeking treatment.
However, getting medical treatment or advice for gynaecomastia is crucial to rule out underlying health conditions, address the physical and psychological symptoms, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
First, let’s understand why gynaecomastia develops in some people. The primary cause of gynaecomastia is an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone levels in the male body. Here’s how it happens:
Estrogen Receptors: Breast tissue contains estrogen receptors. Estrogen promotes the development of breast tissue. While it is typically present in lower levels in males, estrogen production or activity increase may stimulate breast tissue growth. When estrogen binds to these receptors, it stimulates the growth and proliferation of glandular breast tissue.
Androgen Receptors: Testosterone and other androgens typically inhibit the growth-promoting effects of estrogen on breast tissue by binding to androgen receptors. When androgen activity is reduced, it allows estrogen to be produced freely.
Several factors can contribute to the imbalance between estrogen and testosterone in males. These include:
Physiological Changes
Medications and Drugs
Certain medications can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to increased estrogen activity or decreased testosterone levels. Examples include:
Health Conditions
Obesity
Genetic Conditions
It may be hard to tell if you have gynaecomastia, or if it’s another condition that presents with similar symptoms. While you will need to get a diagnosis from a plastic surgeon to be sure, these are the common symptoms of gynaecomastia:
It is important to note that gynaecomastia can be mistaken for similar conditions, and vice versa. Therefore, it is best to seek appropriate medical advice. In general, these following conditions have similar symptoms of gynaecomastia:
If you have the symptoms above and are concerned if you have gynaecomastia, your next step is to seek professional help. Early consultation can help in diagnosing the condition and ruling out more serious issues.
You’ll need to find a specialist with key qualifications and experience in treating gynaecomastia. This includes endocrinologists or plastic surgeons with relevant expertise. Also, don’t hesitate to seek emotional support through counseling or support groups to cope with the psychological impact of gynaecomastia.
If your doctor suspects gynaecomastia, don’t fret. It’s a manageable and treatable condition. First of all, you can expect that your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment before they reach their final diagnosis. The process often includes:
There are various ways to treat gynaecomastia, or man boobs. In general, the treatment plan will depend on your age and severity of the condition. Here are the common treatment methods for gynaecomastia:
In some cases, especially in adolescents, physiological gynaecomastia may resolve on its own in majority of cases and require only observation and regular monitoring. However, if it persists past the age of 20, it is less likely to self-resolve. Gynaecomastia that is caused by medication or supplement intake should also resolve with a change of medication class or cessation of the supplement.
Medications can be prescribed to address hormonal imbalances that cause gynaecomastia. These may include anti-estrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as Tamoxifen.
A gynaecomastia correction, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is often recommended for moderate to severe cases. It involves a surgical correction of overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men by removing excess fat and glandular tissue with excision, resulting in a flatter and slimmer chest.
Not all cases of gynaecomastia require surgery. Therefore, a consultation is important so the doctor can assess the severity of the condition before tailoring a treatment plan.
If you’re concerned about your ability to pay for treatment for gynaecomastia, speak to your doctor about payment plans and expected fees. To help you get an idea of how much treatment will cost for this condition, here’s an estimate. However, take note that fees may range from doctor to doctor.
Also, check with your insurance provider to see if treatment for gynaecomastia is covered. Some policies may cover part or all of the costs, especially if the condition is causing significant health issues.
Follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, which may include wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding strenuous activities.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to maintain results and overall well-being.
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
Be aware of potential complications, such as infection, scarring, or asymmetry, nipple numbness and contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
If you or a loved one is experiencing this condition, understand that along with physical symptoms, gynaecomastia can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to feelings of embarrassment and social anxiety.
Seek counseling or therapy to help cope with the emotional aspects of gynaecomastia. Joining support groups can provide a sense of community and shared experiences. Speaking with a licensed professional such as a psychologist can also help you address feelings of shame or low self-esteem. Also, try opening up to your family members or close friends for support if you struggle with feelings of anxiety or depression due to gynaecomastia.
After seeking treatment, it’s best to avoid gynaecomastia from recurring. While it may be inevitable, there are certain methods to prevent this condition from developing again. These include:
Gynaecomastia, though often benign, can have profound physical and psychological effects on those who experience it. Understanding the condition, from its root causes to its symptoms and treatment options, is important for effective management of this condition.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial not only for relieving physical discomfort but also for addressing the emotional and psychological distress that often comes with gynaecomastia. Consulting with a professional ensures that any underlying health issues are identified and treated appropriately.
Embracing a healthy lifestyle and making informed choices about diet, exercise, and medication can also aid in managing and preventing the recurrence of gynaecomastia. Additionally, seeking psychological support through counseling or support groups can provide emotional relief and improve overall well-being. By taking proactive steps and seeking professional advice, those with gynaecomastia can effectively manage the condition and enhance their quality of life.
If you suspect you have gynaecomastia, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with a specialist and explore the available treatment options. Remember, addressing gynaecomastia is not only about physical appearance but also about fostering better health.
For further information and support, refer to the FAQs section, and consider reaching out to local support groups, your close friends or family, and doctors. Taking these steps can make a significant difference in your journey toward recovery and well-being.
Is gynaecomastia recurring?
It is rare for gynaecomastia to recur. The goal of surgery is to permanently reduce the amount of breast tissue. However, a recurrence may happen due to underlying medical issues, changes in hormones, or lifestyle choices. If you suspect that your gynaecomastia has recurred, book an appointment with your doctor.
Can gynaecomastia be cured?
In some cases, gynecomastia goes away over time without treatment. But if gynecomastia is caused by a medical condition or does not resolve, medical intervention may be necessary. A plastic surgeon can help you understand the treatment methods available to you.
Do chest exercises help gynecomastia?
While exercise does help to tone the chest muscles and reduce the appearance of pseudogynecomastia, the breast tissue will still be present and does not remove gynaecomastia. In many cases, weight loss accentuates the conical shape of the breast tissue disc below the areolar. Surgical treatment will be more effective, but it depends on the severity of the condition.
Is it serious to have gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia isn't a serious problem in most cases, as it is a benign condition. However, some people with gynecomastia have pain in their breasts, and it may also have negative mental health impacts.
What happens if gynaecomastia is not treated?
Symptoms of gynaecomastia can include sensitivity on the chest and mild to severe discomfort. If left untreated over time, this discomfort can become worse as enlarged breast tissues continue to grow.
Is gynecomastia surgery worth it?
While gynaecomastia is not a serious health condition, surgery may be worth it to reduce pain and discomfort while boosting self-esteem and quality of life.
