What Are Symptoms of Gynecomastia?

Understanding the symptoms of gynecomastia can help you gain a better understanding of how to cope with the condition, and get rid of man boobs.

• Itchiness of the nipple and underarm area
• Breast may feel tender to the touch
• Painful, or one-sided swelling
• Bloody discharge from the nipple
• Feeling feverish or unwell for an unknown reason

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may have gynecomastia. If you’re only experiencing swelling and fatty breast tissue, this is referred to as pseudogynecomastia. By visiting Dr. Delgado you can receive proper diagnosis and treatment for gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia.

The Anatomy of the Male Breast

A normal male breast contains some glandular, or breast, tissue.

The breasts of men and women are both composed of breast tissue, fatty tissue, and connective tissue. Women have a larger amount of glandular (breast) tissue than men, with the amount of tissue present fluctuating throughout the woman’s life.

Men with gynecomastia have more breast tissue present, due to changes in hormone levels. Because glandular tissue is located at the front of the breast, an increase in glandular tissue causes a noticeable protrusion on the male breast. This causes the breasts to take on a more feminine appearance.

What Causes Gynecomastia?

It typically occurs due to a hormonal imbalance.

Men produce both testosterone and estrogen – the male and female sex hormones, respectively – but in different quantities. When a man’s testosterone level decreases and estrogen level increases, breast tissue can develop. This hormonal upset can be triggered by different factors.

There are a number of highly referenced medical conditions and drugs connected to man boobs, such as specific congenital disorders and anabolic steroid abuse. Age and massive weight loss can also be related to abnormal male breast development.

How Bad Is My Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia can be classified, based on physical features
When gynecomastia surgeons examine patients, they look at different physical features to determine the severity of the man boobs. Some features include: breast size, breast ptosis (droopiness), excess, skin, puffiness in the nipples, skin elasticity, amount of tissue, and chest shape.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery developed a classification system allowing specialists to evaluate your condition and how to best treat it.*

How Can I Get Rid of Gynecomastia?

There are many resources available online that can help you explore your treatment options. You may find that diet and exercise when done properly – are effective ways to reduce fatty tissue. While websites are a good place to start, they are not a replacement for a consultation with a doctor who is experienced at treating men with gynecomastia.

However, if your chest contains harder breast tissue, it would need to be removed surgically in order to achieve a lean, masculine look. Read patient stories to know what to expect and find out how much surgery can cost.

In which cases can non-invasive procedures help improve the shape of the male chest?

The most effective way to treat gynecomastia is with surgery.

* There are different types of sedation used in Male Breast Reduction surgery, including local and general anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will detail his preferences prior to surgery.

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