Some of the various problems that can cause - Gynecomastia Male Breast Enlargement
There are many possible reasons for male breast growth. If caused by a medical problem, this should be corrected first. Such issues can be investigated by your internist or an endocrinologist. In most cases there is no known cause. A complete discussion of the many possible causes for gynecomastia is beyond the scope of this introduction.
Developmental Drug Related Hypogonadism (decreased androgens or increased resistance to androgen) - Primary
- Acquired (trauma, infection, torsion (twisted testicles), radiation,mumps, chemotherapy)
- Congenital
- Secondary
- Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (low testicular function from lack of gonadal stimulating pituitary hormones
- Kallmann Syndrome An x-linked disorder characterized by a GnRH deficiency with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and delayed puberty, and smelling deficiencies.
- Pituitary Failure (Loss of blood supply, infection, tumor)
Tumors - Aromatase Producing
- Bronchogenic Carcinoma
- HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) Producing
- Steroid Producing
Systemic - Adrenal (low ACT hormone or Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia or overgrowth)
- Cirrhosis (increased materials for peripheral tissue aromatase)
- Renal Failure (when testicles fail)
- Thyrotoxicosis (estrogen and testosterone binding changed)
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Congenital Disorders
- Androgen Resistance Syndromes (cells are unable to respond adequately to circulating androgens)
- Enzyme Defects of Testosterone Production
- Increased Peripheral Tissue Aromatase
- Klinefelter Syndrome
- True Hermaphroditism
- Vanishing Testis Syndrome (Testicular Regression Syndrome - both testes regress during fetal life)
Familial
Miscellaneous
- Alcoholism
- Chest Wall Trauma
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Herpes Zoster Infection
- HIV (after years of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART))
- Myotonic Dystrophy (an inherited disorder in which the muscles contract but have decreasing power to relax, become weak and waste away)
- Obesity
- Psychological Stress
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Refeeding after Malnutrition (increased materials for peripheral tissue aromatase)
Idiopathic (unknown cause)
Adapted from Rohrich, RJ et al Plastic Reconstructive Surgery 111:909, 2003 |
Problems causing continued breast growth are better dealt with before surgery with your medical doctor. Dr. Bermant prefers to sculpt stable breast problems. Surgery does not stop further breast growth.
If you have questions about your medical condition, you should ask your primary care doctor or endocrinologist. As a surgeon Dr. Bermant will be glad to help you explore surgical sculpture options during a consultation or preliminary remote package. You can start with this extensive introduction on the following pages:
