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DOI: DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijmhs.2347.9981.9222.8

Abstract

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast that results from an overgrowth of the glandular portion of the breast, which is often bilateral but can occasionally be unilateral. Clinically, it can be identified by the presence of a rubbery or firm mass extending concentrically from the nipples. Pseudogynecomastia (lipomastia), which is characterised by fat accumulation without glandular development, should be distinguished from gynecomastia. Gynecomastia develops when the estrogen-androgen ratio is altered in favour of oestrogen or when the breasts become more sensitive to a normal level of circulating oestrogen. The antagonistic effects of testosterone and oestrogen are what is causing the imbalance. (The typical ratio of testosterone to oestrogen during pregnancy is about 100:1, while the usual testosterone to oestrogen ratio in the blood is about 300:1). The goal of surgery is to reduce the size of the breast and to improve cosmetic appearance.

Keywords : Gynecomastia; Drugs; Surgery.

Corresponding Author : Ravi Kumar Chittoria, Professor & Head of IT Wing and Telemedicine, Department of Plastic Surgery & Telemedicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Pondicherry 605006, India.