One-Sided / Unilateral Gynecomastia and Reasons
Gynecomastia is a medical condition that includes enlargement of male breast tissue. This condition can significantly impact a man’s self-esteem and body image. While this condition is often bilateral—meaning it affects both sides of the chest—some men experience a variation known as unilateral gynecomastia, where only one breast is enlarged.
This one-sided development can be even more distressing due to the asymmetry it causes in the chest. Understanding unilateral gynecomastia, its causes, and the available treatment options is crucial for those who are affected by this condition.
What Is Unilateral Gynecomastia?
Unilateral gynecomastia is a medical condition in which only one breast develops excess glandular tissue, leading to noticeable enlargement. This asymmetry between the two sides of the chest can be subtle or quite pronounced, depending on the severity of the tissue growth.
Like bilateral gynecomastia, unilateral gynecomastia is not the result of fat accumulation but rather an increase in glandular tissue. Men with unilateral gynecomastia often report feelings of embarrassment and self-consciousness, particularly when wearing tight clothing or participating in activities that require removing their shirts, such as swimming.
The asymmetry can also create difficulties in finding properly fitting clothing and can lead to discomfort during physical activity.
Causes of Unilateral Gynecomastia
Unilateral gynecomastia can arise from a variety of factors, some of which are:
Hormonal Imbalances
The most common cause of gynecomastia, whether unilateral or bilateral, is an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone levels. Estrogen, the hormone responsible for female characteristics, can promote breast tissue growth in men when present in excessive amounts.
Testosterone, on the other hand, helps to suppress estrogen’s effects. If a man’s testosterone levels drop or if his estrogen levels rise, this imbalance can lead to the development of gynecomastia.
In unilateral gynecomastia, this hormonal imbalance may affect one side of the chest more than the other, leading to the uneven enlargement of breast tissue.
Medications And Drugs
Many medications have been linked to gynecomastia. These include anti-androgens (used to treat prostate cancer), anabolic steroids, certain antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and heart medications, among others. Illicit drugs like marijuana, heroin, and certain types of steroids can also lead to gynecomastia.
In cases of unilateral gynecomastia, the tissue on one side of the chest may be more sensitive to the effects of these medications, resulting in asymmetrical breast enlargement.
Underlying Health Conditions
Liver disease, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and tumors that affect hormone levels (such as testicular tumors) can all lead to hormonal imbalances that trigger gynecomastia. In some cases, these conditions may cause gynecomastia to develop on only one side of the chest.
Age-Related Factors
Gynecomastia is common during periods of hormonal fluctuation, such as puberty and old age. During puberty, a temporary imbalance in hormone levels can lead to breast tissue growth in boys, and this can sometimes occur more prominently on one side. Similarly, older men may experience a decline in testosterone levels, leading to gynecomastia.
Treatment Options For Unilateral Gynecomastia
The treatment for unilateral gynecomastia depends on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the patient’s overall health and preferences.
In many cases, the condition may resolve on its own. This is particularly true if this condition occurs during puberty. However, if the condition persists or causes significant distress, treatment options are available.
- Observation And Lifestyle Changes
In mild cases of unilateral gynecomastia, where the enlargement is not causing significant physical or emotional distress, a “watchful waiting” approach may be recommended. This involves monitoring the condition over time. This is done to check if the condition betters or resolves on its own. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and discontinuing any medications that may be contributing to the condition can be beneficial.
- Medical Treatment
If an underlying hormonal imbalance is identified as the cause of unilateral gynecomastia, hormone therapy may be prescribed to restore balance and reduce breast tissue growth. Medications such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and aromatase inhibitors can be effective in some cases. However, these treatments are generally more effective when started early and may not be suitable for all patients.
- Surgical Treatment
For men with persistent or severe unilateral gynecomastia, surgery is often the most effective treatment option. The two main surgical techniques used to treat gynecomastia are liposuction and excision:
- Liposuction: This technique is used when the gynecomastia is primarily due to excess fatty tissue. The surgeon makes tiny incisions and suctions out the fat. The removal of the fat results in a flatter and more symmetrical chest.
- Excision: This technique is necessary when there is a significant amount of glandular tissue or excess skin. The surgeon removes the excess tissue through incisions made around the areola or in the natural creases of the chest.
The goal of surgery is to create a more balanced and masculine chest contour while minimizing scarring.
Get Gynecomastia Surgery At Divine Cosmetic Surgery
If you are struggling with unilateral gynecomastia and are considering surgery, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon who specializes in gynecomastia surgery. At Divine Cosmetic Surgery, we understand the physical and emotional impact of gynecomastia and are committed to helping our patients achieve their desired results.
Our team of experienced and highly recommended plastic surgeons in Delhi have decades of experience in performing male breast reduction surgeries, including the treatment of unilateral gynecomastia. We take a personalized approach to each case, ensuring that every patient receives the highest level of care and attention.
Conclusion
One sided or Unilateral gynecomastia can be a challenging condition to live with, but it is treatable. Whether through observation, medical treatment, or surgery, there are options available to help you achieve a more symmetrical and masculine chest. If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, contact Divine Cosmetic Surgery today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more confident and comfortable life.
