Diagnosis and treatment of gynaecomastia at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of the mammary gland in men, which may be either unilateral or bilateral. The problem often causes physical and psychological discomfort, but in many cases it can be effectively diagnosed and treated. If you notice breast enlargement, tenderness or asymmetry within the chest area, we invite you to OpenMed in Warsaw or in Płock. Our specialists provide diagnostics and treatment of gynaecomastia, taking into account both the cause and the patient's individual situation.
Gynaecomastia results from a hormonal imbalance between oestrogens and androgens. It may occur physiologically - in newborns, during puberty and in older men - but also as a symptom of disease or as an effect of certain medications. It is important to distinguish gynaecomastia from so-called lipomastia, that is, breast enlargement resulting mainly from excess adipose tissue.
Causes and symptoms of gynaecomastia
The most common causes include hormonal changes, obesity, the use of certain medications (e.g. anabolic steroids, hormonal medicines), liver, kidney or thyroid disease, and disorders of testicular function. In some cases the cause is not clear-cut and requires more in-depth diagnostic work-up.
The symptoms of gynaecomastia include enlargement of the glandular tissue within the breast, a feeling of tightness or tenderness, and sometimes pain on pressure. The lesion may be symmetrical or affect only one side. Any new breast enlargement in a man is worth consulting in order to rule out other causes, including changes that require further diagnostic work-up.
What does the diagnostic process for gynaecomastia at OpenMed look like?
The process begins with a medical consultation with an endocrinologist, andrologist or internist. Our specialists conduct a detailed interview about the duration of symptoms, medications used, coexisting illnesses and lifestyle. A physical examination is then performed, which allows the nature of the lesion to be assessed.
In the next stage, laboratory tests are ordered, including an assessment of the hormonal balance. Depending on the indications, we also perform imaging tests, such as a breast ultrasound, which makes it possible to distinguish gynaecomastia from other lesions. The aim of the diagnostic work-up is to determine the cause and to select an appropriate treatment.
Treatment of gynaecomastia
Treatment depends on the cause and the severity of the changes. In many cases conservative treatment is sufficient, consisting of lifestyle modification, weight reduction or a change in the medications being used. If the cause lies in hormonal disorders, our doctors may propose appropriate pharmacological treatment.
In situations where the changes are well established or cause significant discomfort, surgical treatment may be considered. The decision is made individually after thorough diagnostic work-up and a discussion of all available options. At OpenMed the patient receives clear information about the possible methods of treatment and their effects.
Care and further management
After treatment is initiated, monitoring of the results and any recurrences is important. Our specialists at OpenMed care for the patient at every stage - from diagnostic work-up through to further treatment and prevention. If necessary, we refer the patient for additional specialist consultations to ensure comprehensive care.
Treatment of gynaecomastia at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock
If you notice symptoms of gynaecomastia or want to discuss any worrying changes, book a visit at OpenMed Warsaw (Wola) or at OpenMed Płock. Telephone and online registration available - the team will help you choose a convenient appointment and plan further diagnostic work-up.
FAQ Diagnosis and treatment of gynaecomastia
Not always. In some cases, particularly physiological ones, the changes may resolve spontaneously. However, every case requires medical assessment.
Most often these are hormonal tests and a breast ultrasound, which allow the nature of the lesion to be assessed.
It can, which is why thorough diagnostic work-up is important; this allows hormonal diseases or other conditions to be ruled out.
In most cases yes, provided that the cause is correctly identified and an appropriate therapy is chosen.
Surgical treatment is considered for established changes causing significant discomfort or when conservative management has been ineffective. The decision is made individually after full diagnostic assessment.
In most cases physiological pubertal gynaecomastia resolves spontaneously within several months to a few years. If changes persist, it is worth consulting a specialist.