Gynecomastia
Overview
Gynecomastia is a medical condition in which the male breast tissue becomes enlarged due to hormonal imbalances or other underlying medical conditions. It may cause discomfort, pain, and embarrassment and may affect one or both breasts. The condition is common in newborns, adolescents, and older men and may resolve on its own or require medical treatment depending on the cause and severity.
The diagnosis of gynecomastia usually involves a medical evaluation, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests. The healthcare provider may also review the patient’s medical history, medications, and symptoms to identify any underlying medical conditions that may cause gynecomastia.
Procedure
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the male breast tissue, which may cause discomfort, pain, and embarrassment. In this condition, the glandular tissue in the breast swells due to hormonal imbalances or other underlying medical conditions.
Here is an overview of the procedure and steps that are usually followed in diagnosing and treating gynecomastia:
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Medical evaluation: The first step is to consult a healthcare provider or a specialist such as an endocrinologist, urologist, or plastic surgeon, who can evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and medications that you may be taking. They may also perform a physical examination of your breasts, testicles, and thyroid gland, and order some blood tests to check hormone levels and rule out any underlying medical conditions that may cause gynecomastia.
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Imaging tests: In some cases, the healthcare provider may order imaging tests such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI to get a better view of the breast tissue and rule out any breast cancer or other abnormalities.
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Medications: If the gynecomastia is caused by an imbalance of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, the healthcare provider may prescribe medications such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), aromatase inhibitors, or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to restore the hormonal balance.
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Surgery: If medications do not work or the gynecomastia is severe and causing discomfort, surgery may be recommended. The surgical procedure may involve liposuction to remove the excess fat tissue, excision to remove the glandular tissue, or a combination of both. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the recovery time may vary depending on the extent of the surgery.
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Follow-up care: After the treatment, the healthcare provider may schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and adjust the medication dosage or treatment plan if necessary.
In summary, gynecomastia is a medical condition that requires medical evaluation and treatment. The treatment options may vary depending on the underlying cause, severity, and individual factors, and may include medications or surgery. If you suspect you have gynecomastia, consult a healthcare provider or a specialist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.