Breast enlargement in men is known as gynaecomastia and can affect one or both sides.  

Abnormal breast tissue growth in males is known as gynaecomastia. It’s a condition that is characterised by excess localised fat, excess glandular tissue, or a combination of these. The issue most often occurs naturally during peak periods of hormonal change, namely neonatal development, puberty, and older adulthood. Other possible causes include drug use and certain medical conditions. Read on to find out more about the issue and what you can do if you experience physical discomfort or have aesthetic concerns…

1.  Gynaecomastia has a few possible symptoms

Gynaecomastia is typically defined as abnormal breast tissue growth in males. Besides excess fat and/or glandular tissue, it is also possible to experience swelling in the breasts, breast discharge, and breast tenderness. Some people suffer from pain as well as nipple sensitivity, especially when rubbing against clothes.

In some cases, gynaecomastia does not cause any symptoms but can be a cause of concern for cosmetic reasons.

2.  Gynaecomastia is often caused by hormonal changes

Oestrogen levels that are either high or too low can result in gynaecomastia. This generally occurs at specific life phases: the first few weeks of life; puberty; and andropause.

Many male babies are born with enlarged breast tissue as an effect of their mother’s oestrogen levels. In most cases, this resolves within a few weeks.

Swollen breast tissue is a common side-effect of puberty. This happens when the body produces more oestrogen than male sex hormones due to hormonal changes. This issue usually resolves with time, and the enlarged breast tissue subsides as the hormonal balance is restored.

Additionally, males may experience gynecomastia during andropause, a phase of life characterized by a hormonal imbalance that happens around middle age.

3.  Medication, drugs, and underlying health conditions can cause swollen breast tissue

Besides hormonal changes, gynaecomastia can also be caused by several other factors. These include certain medications as well as recreational drugs and alcohol. Health conditions that affect one’s hormonal balance can also lead to swollen breast tissue. These include tumours that affect the testes, adrenal glands, or pituitary gland; hyperthyroidism; kidney failure; and hypogonadism, a condition that affects the production of testosterone.

4.  The issue can be treated

Although it is not always necessary to treat gynaecomastia, some people choose to undergo surgery to alleviate discomfort and achieve a more aesthetically pleasing chest contour.

When it comes to surgery, there are two options available: excision and liposuction. In the case of excision, a small incision is made along the areola where the excess tissue is located. The breast gland tissue is then removed, along with any excess skin, if necessary.

Liposuction, on the other hand, involves the removal of breast fat rather than breast gland tissue. It is possible to undergo a combination of excision and liposuction.

How can we help?

Dr. Sally Ng offers breast reduction surgery for men who have gynaecomastia that is causing them physical discomfort. The treatment effectively reduces breast size and enhances the contours of the chest wall.

If you are struggling with abnormal breast tissue growth and would like to resolve the issue, we encourage you to get in touch to arrange a consultation. Dr. Ng will discuss your treatment options with you and let you know what to expect from the process.

To find out more about gynaecomastia and how it can be addressed, please have a look here.

Dr. Sally Ng also offers a comprehensive range of other procedures — to learn about her full scope of treatments, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr. Sally Ng, please get in touch here or give us a call at (03) 9587 2048.