Gynecomastia, which is the abnormal enlargement of the male breast, is the common cause for breast evaluation among men. It has various types spurred by a number of causes. In this article we will go through the different classifications of this condition with the intent of educating those who suffer from it, and maybe guide them in their future treatment choices.
1. Pure Glandular Gynecomastia
This type is commonly seen among bodybuilders or athletes who use anabolic steroids in effect, causes them to produce more testosterone, which can be converted into estrogen. This is also referred to as Anabolic-Androgenic Steriod (AAS) induced gynecomastia. For those leaner men, the marked enlargement is usually brought about by a breast tissue gland with small amounts of adipose tissue to none at all.
The treatment would be removal of the glands by using an incision. Liposuction is hardly an option in this case because there is usually no fatty tissue present.
2. Puffy Nipples
This is a common type of gynecomastia where the tissue builds up underneath or generally around the areola or a little beyond it creating a dome-shaped look concentrated in that area. This condition is commonly observed in men who do intense weight training.
The usual treatment of choice that has been deemed to be highly effective is the pill, Gynexerol. Three months of this is said to tighten the area that surrounds the nipple. It also reduces the fat throughout the chest making it firmer.
3. Pseudogynecomastia
It is also known as “false gynecomastia” and is caused mainly of adipose tissue characterized by excessive areolar projection. And it is often observed among obese individuals.
The recommended treatment for this type of gynecomastia is regular exercise and diet to reduce the weight. Surgery is a last option and done only if all other methods are ineffective. This is also the only kind of gynecomastia that can be relieved by liposuction, but excision may also be indicated in some cases.
4. Adolescent Gynecomastia
As the name says, this is the type that is seen among male adolescents, and this is due to the raging and often imbalanced hormones that are apparent at this stage. It presents itself somewhere between the ages twelve to eighteen years old, and affects 30-60% of male adolescents. Usually it doesn’t require any treatment because it resolves on its own when the adolescent passes this stage. However, statistics show that 30% of these guys would have to carry the condition the rest of their lives. In these cases, a consult would be necessary for any possible treatment.
5. Severe Gynecomastia
As the name denotes, this type presents with a more pronounced breast enlargement, along with excessive and saggy skin. It is common among older men and it is characterized as such due to the lack of elasticity of the skin due to aging. Some would still go for gynecomastia surgery or other treatment while others would just opt to live with it.
The different presentation of gynecomastia, whether it occurs unilaterally or bilaterally, requires its respective treatments. The classification is important in order to separate the cases and identify the causes and corresponding treatments. If you think that your symptoms belong to either of the groups mentioned above, you now have basic knowledge about how it goes and how you can respond to it. However, it is always a good rule of thumb to approach a physician for a thorough evaluation and a recommendation for an appropriate treatment for you.
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