Overview
Gynaecmastia is the benign enlargement of male breast tissue caused by an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone. It can affect one or both breasts and occur at any age. In Korea, advanced diagnostic and treatment options are available in endocrinology and plastic surgery clinics, offering medical management and cosmetic correction to relieve both physical discomfort and psychological distress.
Symptoms
- Enlargement of one or both breasts
- Firm or rubbery tissue beneath the nipple
- Breast tenderness or sensitivity
- Swelling or asymmetry of the chest
- Emotional distress or self-consciousness in severe cases
Causes
Gynaecmastia occurs when estrogen activity outweighs androgen activity. Causes include:
- Hormonal changes during puberty or aging
- Medications such as anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, or certain antidepressants
- Chronic illnesses (liver disease, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism)
- Obesity, leading to increased estrogen production from fat tissue
- Tumors affecting hormone levels (testicular, adrenal, or pituitary tumors)
- Idiopathic causes (no identifiable reason)
Risk Factors
- Pubertal age (10–16 years)
- Older men (50+ years) due to testosterone decline
- Obesity
- Use of medications affecting hormones
- Chronic liver, kidney, or endocrine disorders
- Family history of gynaecmastia
Diagnosis
In Korea, gynaecmastia is diagnosed using:
- Physical examination to distinguish true glandular enlargement from fat deposits
- Blood tests to assess hormone levels (testosterone, estrogen, LH, FSH, prolactin)
- Imaging tests: Ultrasound or mammography to rule out tumors
- Medical history review to identify medications or underlying conditions
Prevention
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding anabolic steroids or drugs that affect hormones
- Regular monitoring of hormone levels in high-risk individuals
- Early evaluation of liver, kidney, or endocrine disorders
Treatment Options in Korea
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and duration:
- Medical Management
- Hormone therapy for hormonal imbalance
- Discontinuation or adjustment of medications causing gynaecmastia
- Observation for mild or pubertal cases, as spontaneous resolution is common
- Surgical Treatment
- Liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue
- Excision surgery to remove glandular tissue
- Combination procedures for optimal cosmetic results
- Available in leading hospitals such as Samsung Medical Center, Asan Medical Center, and Severance Hospital
- Psychological Support
- Counseling for body image concerns
- Support groups for adolescent or adult patients
Prognosis
Gynaecmastia is usually not life-threatening and may resolve spontaneously, especially in puberty. Persistent or severe cases respond well to medical or surgical treatment. In Korea, access to advanced diagnostics and surgical techniques ensures excellent outcomes, both physically and psychologically.
