What is gynecomastia?
Definition of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a condition that refers to the growth of breast tissue in men. It usually occurs as a result of enlargement of the mammary glands or an increase in adipose tissue. This can cause swelling, hardening or asymmetry in the breast area in men.
Basic Principles of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can occur due to various reasons such as hormonal imbalances, drug use, genetic factors and some medical conditions. Gynecomastia is mostly caused by hormonal changes and is frequently seen in adolescence. However, it can also occur in adults and in some cases may indicate a serious underlying medical problem.
Different types and classifications of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can be classified into two main types as glandular gynecomastia and fatty gynecomastia. While glandular gynecomastia occurs due to the enlargement of the mammary glands, fatty gynecomastia occurs due to the increase in adipose tissue. In addition, gynecomastia can sometimes be classified as unilateral or bilateral (bilateral).
Prevalence and risk factors of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a fairly common condition among men. Gynecomastia symptoms can be seen in approximately 50% of men during adolescence. However, gynecomastia can also occur after puberty and affect up to 40% of adult males. Gynecomastia risk factors include hormonal changes, obesity, thyroid problems, liver disease, drug use, and a family history of gynecomastia.
Causes of Gynecomastia
Hormonal imbalances and hormonal causes
- Imbalance between testosterone and estrogen hormones can cause gynecomastia. Increasing estrogen hormone levels or decreasing testosterone hormone levels can lead to enlargement of breast tissue.
- Hormonal disorders such as functional hypogonadism can contribute to gynecomastia by affecting testosterone production.
Medications and their side effects
Some drugs can cause gynecomastia. Especially antiandrogenic drugs, anabolic steroids, estrogens, some antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiulcer drugs and drugs used in cancer treatment can cause gynecomastia.
In addition, it is known that phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) and drug use in alcoholic beverages may increase the risk of gynecomastia.
Genetic factors and other possible causes
- Individuals with a family history of gynecomastia may be at increased risk of gynecomastia. Genetic factors may cause a person's breast tissue to be more sensitive to hormonal changes.
- Some health problems and conditions can contribute to gynecomastia. These can include liver diseases, thyroid problems, kidney failure, obesity, hormone-producing tumors and Klinefelter syndrome.
- The aging process can also contribute to the development of gynecomastia because hormone levels can change with age.
Gynecomastia Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of gynecomastia and how to recognize it
- Swelling or feeling of tenderness in the breast or nipples.
- Hardness or feeling of lumps in the breast tissue.
- The nipples are enlarged or appear to have taken on a different shape.
- Asymmetry (different size or shape) in one or both breasts.
Gynecomastia is usually painless, but in some cases, mild or moderate pain in the breast area may also occur.
Tests and examinations that the doctor can do to diagnose gynecomastia
To diagnose gynecomastia, the doctor usually does a physical examination and takes your medical history. Also, some tests and examinations can be done to detect other health problems that may cause gynecomastia. These may include:
| Test or Review | Description |
|---|---|
| Biopsy | Laboratory tests can be done by taking a sample from the breast tissue. |
| Blood tests | Blood tests can be done to check hormone levels. |
| Mammography or ultrasonography | Mammography or ultrasonography can be performed for detailed imaging of the breast tissue. |
| Evaluation of drugs | If gynecomastia is related to medication use, medication may need to be reviewed or changed. |
Gynecomastia Treatment Options
Conservative treatment methods (nutrition, exercise, weight control)
- Review of diet and implementation of a healthy diet plan.
- Exercise and continuing regular physical activity.
- Providing weight control and losing weight in case of obesity.
Surgical treatment options (liposuction, breast tissue removal)
- Liposuction: The process of absorbing the adipose tissue that causes gynecomastia.
- Breast tissue removal (mastectomy): Surgical removal of breast tissue.
Drug therapy and hormone replacement
- Drug therapy: If gynecomastia has developed due to hormonal imbalances, drugs can be used to regulate hormone levels.
- Hormone replacement: In some cases, gynecomastia can occur due to hormone deficiency or imbalance. Hormonal balance is tried to be achieved with hormone replacement therapy.
Psychological and Social Effects of Gynecomastia
The effects of gynecomastia on men
- Gynecomastia can cause low self-confidence and psychological stress in men.
- It can cause body image problems and insecurity in some men.
- Gynecomastia can have negative effects on sexual life and relationships.
The effects on self-confidence, body image and social relations
- Gynecomastia can cause low self-esteem and shyness in social interactions.
- Body image problems can trigger feelings of self-disgust and shyness.
- Gynecomastia may limit participation in sports activities and lead to avoidance of social activities.
Support resources and coping strategies
The following support resources and coping strategies can be used to deal with gynecomastia:
- Joining support groups and sharing experiences with other people.
- Receiving psychological counseling or therapy.
- Performing personal development and self-confidence enhancing activities.
- To adopt a healthy lifestyle and to continue physical activity regularly.
- Supporting the positive self-talk and acceptance process.
Gynecomastia Prevention and Self-Care
Healthy lifestyle choices and preventive measures
- It is important to adopt a healthy diet and pay attention to weight control.
- Doing regular physical activity can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass.
- Limiting alcohol consumption or quitting if possible can reduce the risk of gynecomastia.
- It is important to be careful with the use of the drug and to discuss with the doctor about the potential side effects.
Self-examination methods and regular follow-up
It is important to do self-examination and regular follow-up for gynecomastia. The following steps can be followed:
- Checking for any changes in the breasts once a month.
- Palpating breasts with hands and feeling for abnormal masses or swellings.
- Consult a healthcare professional in case of any suspicious findings or changes.
Which Department of the Hospital should make an appointment for the treatment of gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an exaggerated growth of breast tissue in men. For the treatment of gynecomastia, you usually need to make an appointment from the following departments:
- Department of Plastic Surgery
- Department of Endocrinology
- Department of Urology
Physicians specializing in the treatment of gynecomastia are in these sections. You can apply to one of these departments of the hospital you prefer while making an appointment.
