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Gynecomastia Surgery

Medical and surgical treatment options for the pathological enlargement of male breast tissue.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia is the proliferation of glandular breast tissue in men resulting from estrogen/androgen imbalance. Physiological gynecomastia is seen in newborn, pubertal, and elderly periods. In pathological gynecomastia, hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia, thyroid disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, or tumors should be investigated.

Medications (spironolactone, ketoconazole, anabolic steroids, marijuana, antipsychotics) constitute an important cause group. Differentiation of true gynecomastia from pseudogynecomastia (fat accumulation in the breast area, no glandular tissue) is made by clinical and imaging.

According to Simon classification, in cases between stages I-IIb, liposuction ± glandular excision is applied, and in stage III, additional skin resection may be required.

Symptoms

Soft or fibrous enlargement around the nipple
Unilateral or bilateral breast enlargement
Nipple tenderness and pain
Psychosocial pressure and loss of self-esteem
Rarely nipple discharge

Risk Factors

Puberty and old age (physiological)
Anabolic steroid use (bodybuilders)
Liver cirrhosis and kidney failure
Hypogonadism and testicular tumor
Thyroid diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Hormonal evaluation when breast enlargement is noticed
  • Rapid growth or unilateral hard mass (malignancy must be excluded)
  • Bloody nipple discharge
  • Psychosocial impact and social withdrawal
  • Consultation for medication change in drug-related gynecomastia

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of underlying cause: discontinuing medication, hormone regulation, treatment of hypothyroidism
02
Early stage (under 6 months): tamoxifen or raloxifene (estrogen receptor blocker) medical treatment
03
Surgery: cases unresponsive to medical treatment, present for >12 months, and creating psychosocial impact
04
Liposuction ± subareolar glandular excision: stages I and IIa
05
Glandular excision + skin resection: stages IIb and III
06
Periareolar incision: minimal scar, good cosmetic result

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.