Gynecomastia is a condition that affects up to 60% of men in the world today. We are now starting to understand the underlying causes of the condition and learning how to treat it effectively. So, what do you need to know about understanding gynecomastia pain and its related symptoms?
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition that causes the breast tissue and glands of men to become enlarged and lose their masculine, sculpted look. As the condition progresses, the male breasts begin to sag and change shape.
Causes of Gynecomastia
There are several known causes of gynecomastia. The number one cause of the condition is a change in hormone levels. Men's bodies naturally produce a small amount of estrogen throughout their lives, but if their testosterone levels suddenly drop off, the estrogen could take effect. This is common as men age and during adolescence.
Also, gynecomastia has been linked to heredity and weight fluctuations, as your body struggles to reshape itself after rapid weight gain and loss.
Symptoms of Gynecomastia
The symptoms of gynecomastia can be both physical and mental. During the initial onset of the condition, your breasts may be tender or even painful to the touch. Swelling typically begins behind the nipples and spreads outwards. You may find painful lumps or hard spots.
Moreover, gynecomastia is known to cause mental discomfort and embarrassment. It can take a toll on your self-esteem, and some men become unwilling to take off their shirts because of the development of their breast tissue.
Treatment of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can be treated with the help of minor plastic surgery in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. By using liposuction, your surgeon can carefully remove built-up fatty tissue in the breasts and restore them to their previous size and shape. Also, if the glands have become swollen, a surgeon may choose to remove the glands themselves and tighten up the surrounding skin.
This process takes only a couple hours, and most patients go home the same day. Following the procedure, there is a small amount of gynecomastia post-surgery pain, but it should begin to fade within 7-10 days. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for up to six weeks after the procedure.
If you are interested in learning more about possible treatment options for your gynecomastia in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we invite you to visit Vanguard Plastic Surgery today. Contact us today to set up a consultation to explore your options if you are experiencing pain and discomfort, or if you want to get rid of the excess breast tissue.