Gynecomastia, a medical condition to describe enlarged male breast tissues (glandular or glandular and fat), is commonly caused by hormonal imbalance. Changes surrounding sexual development in teenage boys and health issues such as thyroid problems common among men in their 50s and above are some of the causes of this hormonal imbalance. The side effects of some medications can also potentially be a cause.
In men, the fat tends to accumulate in the chest and abdomen. Fat amassed around the chest area usually results in a puffy or swollen appearance clinically known as lipomastia, adipomastia, or pseudogynecomastia.
Poor dietary habits and lifestyle choices easily contribute to a host of issues, including weight gain and the accumulation of excess fat. Excess fat often results in a slower metabolism, testosterone levels, and aromatase production. The aromatase enzyme converts testosterone to estrogen.
Men produce estrogen, albeit at a lower level compared to women. When a man’s body produces excess estrogen, the more likely that excess fat will be stored. An area where this excess is usually more prevalent is the chest or breast. This is what commonly causes pseudogynecomastia.
When the body produces excess estrogen, it is more likely that excess fat will be stored. Fat also causes the body to produce the aromatase enzyme. This enzyme converts testosterone into estrogen and is responsible for slowing down metabolism, which slows down the body’s ability to burn fat – you will lose fat but in lesser amounts. If not addressed, this can lead to more fat being stored, causing an imbalance in the body’s hormone level.
An increased estrogen level in men also results in loss of muscle mass, fatigue and mood swings.
Low testosterone levels cause an increase in fat storage as the body’s fat-burning capability is reduced. This results in weight gain and the production of excess estrogen. One common sign of low testosterone sign is a decrease in libido. Frequent fatigue is also a sign in men.
There are simple self-check methods that one can carry out. For example:
Appearance
Does your chest area look evenly enlarged?
Excess fat
Is your exercise or workout routine not addressing the excess fat around the chest?
Pain
Is it painful, or does the area around the areolas when touched? (This could be a sign of gynecomastia.)
The above list is not a confirmation indicator. A trip to the doctor’s for a qualified assessment is highly recommended.
There are options to select from, and these include:
Weight loss and exercise
Adopt a comprehensive programme that promotes both weight loss and healthy eating habits. These may consist of resistance training and a caloric deficit diet.
Liposuction
Liposuction is currently the proven clinical treatment for treating pseudogynecomastia. During this procedure, excess fat cells are removed. It is only to be performed by a qualified doctor accredited by MOH Singapore to perform this procedure. The costs may vary, depending on the patient’s clinical condition and the complexity of the surgery.