It is easy for people to lose their confidence in the world of aesthetic selfies, faux appearances, and meaningless humor. Any physical change that disrupts your social life and causes distress can be a sign of this medical condition and it should not be taken lightly. One such emerging concern among males is Gynecomastia or “man boobs.” Understanding what Gynecomastia is is crucial to avoid emotional and physical discomfort.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is often known as man boobs or male gyno among the masses. It is defined as the unnatural growth of breast tissue in males, usually due to changes in the hormones mainly between estrogen and testosterone. As estrogen prompts breast tissue growth, testosterone prevents it. An imbalance between estrogen and testosterone, with rise in estrogen levels, leads to Gynecomastia or man boobs. This medical condition affects both breasts and results in physical discomfort and low self-esteem in men.
What Are The Other Causes Of Gynecomastia?
There are several other causes of Gynecomastia such as:
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney diseases
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Consumption of drugs
- Poor lifestyle
Understanding the stages of Gynecomastia is essential in navigating the journey towards recovery, therefore, Dr. Arjun Handa, the best plastic surgeon in Delhi, provides insight into the four stages of gynecomastia or man boobs, which are essential for an accurate evaluation and effective treatment.
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What Are The Stages Of Gynecomastia?
Stage 1 Initial Phase: Mild Growth
The first stage is marked by the growth of breast tissue beneath the areola, which is the pigmented area around the nipple. You will notice a small, firm lump which is felt under the skin. The growth is not visible during this stage, however, it may be noticeable to you during physical diagnosis or self-checks. This stage is not alarming as it occurs during puberty and goes away on its own. Adolescents undergoing hormonal changes may experience it. However, if the enlargement continues, it will lead to the second stage of gynecomastia.
Stage 2 Moderate enlargement
Gynecomastia grows slowly and leads to the second stage where the breast tissue expands beyond the areola, leading to enlargement of one or both breasts. This stage can also be considered as mild but it is more visible when the individual goes for a swim or wears tight clothes. It is natural to be distressed and affected due to these physical changes. Some men might experience emotional or psychological stress due to the noticeable changes during gynecomastia. This can lead to low self-esteem and self-consciousness.
Stage 3 Visible changes
This stage is characterized by Stage 3 more pronounced breast tissue growth, leading to noticeable swelling and changes in the shape of the breast. During this stage, one or both breasts may begin to grow and become noticeable through clothing. By this time, the breast tissue is more glandular and fatter. It becomes harder to conceal the enlargement as well. Men seek medical advice due to the uninvited attention which also causes lots of stress and anxiety. This stage of gynecomastia demands more than just changes in your lifestyle or observation to get rid of it.
Stage 4 Severe Enlargement
This is the final stage of gynecomastia which takes the most severe form, where the tissue has enlarged and resembles the female breast. It involves sagging and the presence of excess skin. This stage of gynecomastia requires surgery as the enlargement is composed of glandular tissue and fat. Usually, men undergoing gynecomastia avoid activities that might involve wearing tight clothes or removing their shirts to not experience emotional distress and embarrassment. There are several options in surgery to treat this stage of gynecomastia such as liposuction, and mastectomy, which involve removal of excess tissue to restore a flatter, more masculine chest.
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What Is The Treatment For Gynecomastia?
Many men do not wish to go through surgery to cure gynecomastia or even seek medical advice but do not lose hope as Dr. Arjun Handa will make this journey stress-free for you!
- Changing the medication or stopping it – It is possible that a medication is causing gynecomastia, therefore, it is advised to stop its consumption or switch to some other alternative. You must inform the Doctor about your health supplements or dietary supplements.
- Underlying condition – If the individual is suffering from any underlying condition like a tumor or hypogonadism, its treatment will also cure gynecomastia.
- Gynecomastia surgery – It is an electric cosmetic surgery to remove excess breast tissue to treat gynecomastia.
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Talk to The Expert
Life is too short to be lived under constant stress, therefore, do not suffer in silence alone and consult Dr. Arjun Handa whose practice is founded on the principles of professionalism and ethics, derived from 14 Years of experience and seven years as a specialist. He specializes in gynecomastia surgery, tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, breast reductions, breast augmentations, and body contouring, making him one of Delhi’s leading plastic surgeons.
