Gynaecomastia
Gynaecomastia is enlargement of breast tissue in men. It is common, often benign, and has a range of causes from normal hormonal changes in adolescence to medication side effects. Assessment establishes the cause before any treatment is considered.
What it is
Gynaecomastia is the growth of true glandular breast tissue in men, driven by the balance between oestrogen and testosterone. It is distinct from fat deposition in the chest, although the two can occur together, and telling them apart matters because they are treated differently.
Common causes
Normal hormonal change during puberty, which often resolves without treatment. Hormonal change with increasing age. Certain medications. Some medical conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, thyroid or hormone-producing glands. Anabolic steroid use.
Part of the assessment is identifying whether a reversible cause is present, because addressing it may resolve the problem without surgery.
Assessment
Assessment involves examination, a review of medication and medical history, blood tests where indicated, and imaging where the findings require it.
Enlargement affecting only one side, a firm or fixed lump, skin changes, or nipple discharge are assessed carefully, because male breast cancer, although uncommon, does occur.
Treatment
Many cases need no surgery. Where a cause is identified and can be addressed, that comes first. Where gynaecomastia persists and is causing physical discomfort or significant distress, surgical removal of the glandular tissue may be considered.
This is one of the conditions for which Dr. Mansukhani has received peer endorsement from colleagues in Dubai.
Common questions
Is gynaecomastia a sign of cancer?
Usually not. Gynaecomastia is common and most cases are benign. Enlargement on one side only, a firm or fixed lump, skin changes or nipple discharge are assessed more carefully, because male breast cancer does occur even though it is uncommon.
Will it go away on its own?
Gynaecomastia that develops during puberty often resolves without treatment. Cases with an identifiable and reversible cause may settle once that cause is addressed. Long-standing gynaecomastia is less likely to resolve by itself.
Still not sure whether it needs looking at?
Most breast changes turn out to be benign. Working out which ones are is what an assessment is for, and the guides here explain what that involves before you go.