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The most common type of gynecomastia occurs in adult males, and can originate from a number of causes. Often (around 25 percent
of cases), it is simply a case of adolescent gynecomastia that failed to regress with maturity (aka persistent pubertal gynecomastia).
However, it may also be instigated by:
- Drug use (prescription and otherwise): 10 to 25 percent
- Liver disease/malnutrition: 8 percent
- Atrophy (hormone failure) of the testes: 8 percent
- Testicular tumors: 3 percent
- Hypothyroidism: 1.5 percent
As shown above, 25 percent of present cases are the remnant of adolescent gynecomastia. Pittsburgh patients of Dr. Heil most commonly reflect this category. The reason: Because the condition may diminish following adolescence, many pediatricians advise parents of young gynecomastia patients to refrain from seeking treatment until the child reaches adulthood. When you need to find a specialist for male breast reduction Pittsburgh patients can count on for discretion, Premier Plastic Surgery can help.
Persistent pubertal gynecomastia is retained in a percentage of these patients. Fortunately, Dr. Heil has expertly reversed the effects
of gynecomastia in numerous patients who fit this description.
Gynecomastia and Weight Gain
Another common condition, pseudogynecomastia, is male breast enlargement due to fat deposits (as opposed to enlarged glands).
This variation, which is the result of significant weight gain, may appear as late as one's 30s-50s. Age is not as relevant in these
cases, as the condition is strictly commensurate with weight gain.
The good news for patients affected is that this type can often be corrected with liposuction alone. Dr. Heil employs several reputable liposuction techniques, including the ProLipo® laser, ultrasonic liposuction, and the traditional tumescent method to achieve male breast reduction Pittsburgh patients will be pleased with.
Drug-Related Gynecomastia
As stated above, gynecomastia can also be brought about by drug-related causes. Drugs known to lead to gynecomastia include over-the-counter,
prescription, and illicit drugs alike; therefore, it's imperative to understand one's medications and avoid any potentially harmful substances.
Other Causes
In a rare two percent of patients, the condition is caused by secondary hypogonadism, a condition that involves the brain's failure to
signal hormone production to the testes. As the information makes clear, it's more common for the testes themselves to malfunction (without
brain interference). Correcting gynecomastia that results from testicular atrophy is a more extensive process than in other cases. Another
rare occurrence is the presence of breast cancer, particularly in men over 70. For more information on addressing these conditions, please
inquire during a consultation with Dr. Heil.
While the causes of gynecomastia aren't entirely preventable, they may still be corrected by surgery. For more information on undergoing male breast reduction Pittsburgh residents can depend on, we invite you to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Heil.
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