Understanding Gynaecomastia
Overview
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue due to hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, and certain medications. While it often resolves on its own, persistent cases may cause physical discomfort, emotional distress, and a significant impact on self-esteem.
What Is Gynaecomastia?
Gynecomastia, a condition characterised by enlarged male breasts, can significantly impact body image and self-confidence. It often presents as a small, tender lump beneath the nipple, which may grow larger and become more noticeable over time. While commonly associated with adolescent boys experiencing hormonal fluctuations during puberty, gynecomastia can also affect newborns and adult men. Over half of individuals assigned male at birth experience some degree of gynaecomastia at some point in their lives, emphasising its prevalence and potential psychological effects.
Gynaecomastia Grading Scale
Gynaecomastia is often classified into different grades to assess its severity. This classification helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Grade I
: Mild gynaecomastia with only a small amount of breast tissue enlargement and no excess skin. The breast tissue is not yet noticeable from a distance, and the chest's contour is generally unaffected.Grade II
: Moderate breast enlargement, sometimes with fat deposition, and typically no excess skin. The breast tissue extends beyond the areola, leading to a slightly more pronounced contour.Grade III
: More pronounced gynecomastia with moderate-to-severe tissue and fat buildup, accompanied by some excess skin, causing a visible breast-like protrusion.Grade IV
: Severe gynecomastia with significant breast tissue enlargement and excess skin sagging. The enlargement resembles female breasts.
What Are the Symptoms of Gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia can present several symptoms, including:
Breast Swelling
: Gynaecomastia may start as a lump or fatty tissue beneath the nipple, which may be sore.Breast Tenderness
: The enlarged breast tissue may be tender or painful to touch especially around the nipple or areola.Asymmetry
: The breasts often get larger unevenly, with one breast bigger than the other.Nipple Changes
: The nipple may appear more prominent or displaced due to underlying tissue growth.Visible Breast Tissue
: In severe cases, the breast tissue may become more rounded, providing a more noticeable and feminised appearance of the chest.
What Causes Gynaecomastia?
Several factors can contribute to the development of gynaecomastia, including:
Hormonal Imbalance
: Natural hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty and later in life, can contribute to gynaecomastia.Medical Conditions
: Underlying Conditions such as kidney or liver diseases, obesity, hyperthyroidism, and tumours of the adrenal glands or pituitary gland may cause gynaecomastia.Medication Side-effects
: Some medications, including certain antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and heart medications, can cause gynaecomastia as a side effect.Family History
: Newborn babies may have a short-term form of gynecomastia when the birth parent's oestrogen stays in the baby’s blood for a while after birth.Alcohol and Substance Abuse
: Excessive alcohol and substance consumption can increase the risk of developing gynaecomastia.
What Are the Treatments for Gynaecomastia?
While gynaecomastia often resolves on its own, treatments may be necessary in cases of persistent or severe enlargement. Common treatment options include:
Lifestyle Changes
: Losing weight and limiting alcohol consumption can help manage the condition and reduce its appearance.Medication Adjustments
: Discontinuing or adjusting certain medications helps resolve medication-induced gynaecomastia.Addressing Underlying Conditions
: Addressing the underlying condition that is causing gynaecomastia can help reduce the symptoms.Gynaecomastia Surgery
: In cases where gynaecomastia does not resolve with other treatments, surgery may be recommended.
FAQs About Gynaecomastia
Am I a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery?
Generally, good candidates for gynaecomastia surgery are physically healthy, non-smokers who have persistent breast enlargement despite lifestyle changes or medical treatments. To determine your suitability for the procedure, it is best to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon.
How common is gynaecomastia in Singapore?
Gynaecomastia is very common in Singapore. It affects 50-60% of adolescents and up to 70% of men aged 50-69.
Conclusion
If you are struggling with the effects of gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery can help. This procedure reduces excess breast tissue and restores a more masculine chest contour. With advancements in surgical techniques, the recovery process is often relatively quick, and the results can be long-lasting.
If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, book a consultation with our qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and achieve the body you desire.
About Our Plastic Surgeon
Dr Colin Tham is an MOH-certified plastic surgeon based in Singapore, with over 20 years of experience in breast surgery. He obtained a fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and completed his specialist training in Plastic Surgery at Singapore General Hospital. Dr Tham is also responsible for setting up the Aesthetic Centre in KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, where he continues to return as a visiting consultant. Committed to delivering exceptional results with minimal downtime, Dr Tham continues to refine his skills and actively trains surgeons internationally.