Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in boys and men. It means 'Man having breasts like a woman' and is derived from the Latin words 'Gynecos' - meaning woman' and 'Mastos' meaning Breast. The term Gynecomastia was coined by Galen in 2nd century AD.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) - descriptive classification called the 'gynecomastia scale'. Gynecomastia is classified into four groups according to the severity of the breast tissue enlargement.

The four grades are as follows:

Grade I

Grade I gynecomastia is defined as small breast enlargement with a localized button of tissue around the areola or the surrounding nipple area.

Grade II

Grade II gynecomastia defined as mild to moderate breast enlargement, which expands up to the width of the chest. The tissue is now broader based on the chest.

Grade III

Grade III gynecomastia is defined as moderate to significant breast enlargement, expanding the chest's width with excess skin. Although the swelling of the breast tissue is considered moderate to severe, this grade is highly

Grade IV

Grade IV gynecomastia is a significant breast enlargement with substantial excess skin. This grade is considered severe and highly visible, giving the person a feminine breast appearance.

True Gynecomastia feels like a small, rubbery lump under the nipple(s) and areola. It can happen on one or both sides and the lump may feel sore. To diagnose gynecomastia, a thorough history is obtained and a physical examination is performed by the treating surgeon.

Pseudo-gynecomastia is a condition where the male breast tissue enlargement is solely due to excess fatty tissue without any breast tissue. This condition is treated by liposuction alone.

Physiologic or Idiopathic gynecomastia is not dangerous to health. It can be corrected by surgery if the person desires to have a good chest shape and the condition persists for more than 2 years. Pathologic or Non-Physiologic Gynecomastia requires a thorough evaluation to detect the underlying cause and treat it.

No, it is not possibleto correct Gynaecomastia by exercise, weight loss or diet.

When Gynecomastia persists for more than 2 years, it can be corrected by surgery. The surgery usually involves a combination of liposuction and gland removal.Dr. Madhukumar M.G. performs the gynecomastia correction surgery at Midas Cosmetic Surgery Clinic under local anaesthesia in a fully equipped major operation room, in the presence of an experienced anaesthesiologist. In individuals with grade 3 and grade 4 gynecomastia, skin tightening is usually required to obtain an optimal shape.

Dr. Madhukumar M.G. performs the gynecomastia correction surgery at Midas Cosmetic Surgery Clinic under local anaesthesia in a fully equipped major operation room, in the presence of an experienced anaesthesiologist.It is safer with faster recovery time. The total stay including the surgery is for only 4-5 hours.

One can join office 2 days after the surgery and can perform light activities without straining.

Minimal pain and discomfort for 3-5 days. Can join office after 2 days rest. Restricted shoulder movements and only light activities for 10-14 days. The improvement in shape is visible immediately, but as the swelling subsides and the skin reshapes, the chest shapes appears better. One can expect to see the final results by 6-8 weeks. Full recovery with resumption of all activities including strenuous workouts and sports by 6-8 weeks.

Compression vest or garment is an elastic garment which helps by controlling the swelling, providing support and facilitating skin retraction. The vest should be worn continuously for the first 4-6 weeks after surgery to achieve the most benefit.

By 10-14 days, noticeable change can be seen in the chest shape. One can expect to see the final results by 6-8 weeks.

he most frequent early complication following surgical management of gynecomastia is hematoma. Seroma, over-resection with saucer-type deformity, under-resection, unappealing scarring and infections are also possible but rare complications. When performed by a skilful and experienced surgeon and with good post-surgery care, the chances of the complications are very low.