Gynecomastia, or enlargement of male breast tissue, can be managed with both non-surgical and surgical options depending on severity, cause, and duration[5].
Observation/Watchful Waiting: In many cases, gynecomastia—especially that occurring in adolescents due to puberty—resolves on its own within a year or two without intervention. Regular monitoring is usually recommended to check for improvement[5].[7]
Treat Underlying Causes: If gynecomastia results from an underlying medical condition (such as hormonal imbalance or tumors), treating that condition often resolves the breast enlargement. Additionally, if medications or recreational drugs are the cause, discontinuing them under medical supervision may help[5].[7].
Medications:
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators, such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, may help reduce breast tissue by blocking estrogen effects. These are most effective in early or recent cases and are primarily used for moderate to severe symptoms or when gynecomastia causes discomfort or embarrassment[4].[2].[5].
- Aromatase inhibitors (e.g., anastrozole, letrozole) can be used to block estrogen production but are less commonly used[2].[5].
- Testosterone therapy is sometimes used in older men with demonstrable testosterone deficiency but is generally not effective if gynecomastia is due to excess estrogen[4].
Surgery:
- Liposuction is used when gynecomastia is primarily due to excess fatty tissue (pseudo-gynecomastia). A small cannula is inserted to remove fat through suction, resulting in minimal scarring and rapid recovery[3].[4].[5].[8].
- Excision (Mastectomy) removes excess glandular breast tissue and sometimes skin (especially for severe or long-standing cases). This is done through small incisions and may be combined with liposuction for optimal contouring[3].[4].[5].[6].
- Surgical treatment is considered the gold standard for established gynecomastia or cases resistant to medical therapy[1].
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and to determine the best course of treatment based on individual circumstances. Self-treatment is not advised, especially since persistent gynecomastia can rarely be due to male breast cancer[1].
References
- [1] Gynecomastia – evaluation and current treatment options – PMC
- [2] Gynecomastia: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment – Endotext – NCBI
- [3] Gynecomastia Surgery Procedure Steps | ASPS
- [4] How to Manage Gynecomastia: Diagnosis, Stages & Treatment
- [5] Enlarged breasts in men (gynecomastia) – Diagnosis and treatment
- [6] Gynecomastia: What It Is, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
- [7] Treatment options for gynecomastia | Ohio State Medical Center
- [8] Male Breast Reduction Guide | Gynecomastia Surgery Guide | ABCS
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