Gynecomastia

    FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, January 13, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Gynecomastia is the swelling of breast tissue, which gives the appearance of over-developed or enlarged breasts, in men and boys. It is caused by changes in hormone levels, specifically an imbalance of estrogen and testosterone.

Causes and Symptoms of Gynecomastia

The hormone imbalance that results in gynecomastia can be caused by a variety of different factors:
- Other medical conditions, such as liver or lung cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, or overactive thyroid can affect your gynecomastia.
- Certain kinds of medicines can also contribute to the development of gynecomastia, including steroids, antianxiety drugs and antidepressants, ulcer treatment drugs, chemotherapy drugs, and heart medicines, among others.
- Recreational drugs may also play a part in gynecomastia. If you use alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine, or heroine, your gynecomastia could be caused by your use of these substances.

Symptoms of gynecomastia include breast enlargement, rubbery or firm breasts, and tenderness or pain around the breast.

Diagnosing and Treating Gynecomastia

A physical examination by a physician, along with a complete medical history, is usually enough to diagnose gynecomastia. Further tests are often unnecessary. However, a large, one-sided, tender or hard breast lump in a male may be biopsied to rule out more serious health problems.

Treating the possible underlying health conditions may correct your gynecomastia. For example, if you are overweight, weight loss is often the recommended first step.

If the exact cause of your gynecomastia is unclear, as it is in many cases, surgery may be your best option.

Considering Surgery for Gynecomastia

For many men, gynecomastia leaves them feeling embarrassed and unsure of themselves. Some avoid exercise or other physical activities, including intimacy. Sometimes the condition can be corrected by switching the medicine that may be causing the issue. Other times, it's not that simple. It's a personal choice to repair your self-confidence with body contouring surgery. You should educate yourself and meet with a surgeon about what options are right for you.

If you are in the Fort Lauderdale area and want to know more about gynecomastia and surgical solutions, seek out a professional consultation. Please visit the website of Dr. Jon F. Harrell, DO, FACS, The Weston Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery at www.westonsurgery.com.

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