The unusual growth of breast tissue in male is a condition called gynecomastia. The primary reason is the hormonal imbalance between estrogen and testosterone. This condition has a lot of impact on self-confidence and body image of males. And it’s important to understand it is not a reflection of personal failure or lack of effort.

And you’re not alone. Many men face this challenge, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It is a medical issue. The good news is that there are effective treatments are available. 

In this article, we are going to explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for gynecomastia, including expert insights from Dr. Shashank Shah at Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India.

What Are the Symptoms Of Gynecomastia

Understating and identifying these symptoms of gynecomastia can help in seeking timely treatment. 

Here are some of the key symptoms:

• Swollen breast tissue in one or both breasts
• Tenderness or pain in the chest area
• A firm lump beneath the nipple
• Uneven breast growth

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare expert. You may consult Dr. Shashank Shah at Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India, to determine the best course of action. He is considered one of the best surgeon for Gynecomastia in India.

Let’s Look at What Causes Gynecomastia?

Here are several factors that contribute to gynecomastia, including:

1. Hormonal Imbalance

One of the primary cause of gynecomastia is a shift in hormone levels. 

In males, testosterone is the dominant hormone. In females, estrogen is the dominant hormone. 

But when estrogen levels rise or testosterone drops, breast tissue can grow. 

This hormonal imbalance may occur during puberty, aging, or as a result of medical conditions or medications.

2. Medications

Certain medications can trigger gynecomastia, such as:

• Anti-androgens (used for prostate issues)
• Anabolic steroids (sometimes misused by athletes)
• Some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and heart medications

If you’re on these medications and notice breast growth, you should consult your doctor for further guidance.

3. Health Conditions

Gynecomastia can also be linked to other health conditions, such as:

• Liver disease: Liver problems can affect hormone metabolism, which can lead to breast tissue growth.
• Kidney disease: Those on dialysis may experience hormone imbalances that cause gynecomastia.
• Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid can produce excess hormones, influencing breast tissue.
• Hormone-producing tumors: Tumors affecting hormone levels can lead to gynecomastia.

4. Obesity

Sedentary lifestyle combined with a high-calorie diet rich in unhealthy fats and sugars CAN lead to more fat accumulates in the chest area.

These increasing fat tissues, particularly around the abdomen and chest, can convert androgens (male hormones) into estrogens (female hormones).

More estrogen in men suppresses testosterone production.

This hormonal imbalance — higher estrogen and lower testosterone levels, further leads to fat accumulation in the chest area.

Plus, consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats leads to insulin resistance, which further increases estrogen levels.

Obesity-related gynecomastia can be managed with weight loss and lifestyle changes

Treatment Options for Gynecomastia

Cause and severity of the condition is what helps in deciding the treatment for gynecomastia 

While some cases resolve without intervention, others may require medical or surgical treatment.

Let’s Look At The Non-Surgical Treatments

For many men, gynecomastia does not require surgery. Here are some non-surgical approaches:

1. Medications
   • Hormonal therapies, such as aromatase inhibitors or selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), can help restore hormone balance. These medications are particularly effective when gynecomastia is caused by a hormone imbalance.
2. Lifestyle Changes
   • Weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce breast tissue if obesity is the primary cause. Avoiding substances like alcohol or recreational drugs can also help maintain hormone balance.

Surgical Treatments

If gynecomastia persists or is severe, surgical treatment may be recommended. Two main surgical procedures are used to treat gynecomastia:

1. Liposuction
   • Liposuction removes excess fat from the chest area and is ideal for cases where fat is the primary cause of breast enlargement.
2. Mastectomy
   • A mastectomy involves the removal of glandular breast tissue to flatten the chest. Often, this is combined with liposuction for optimal results. This surgery is typically performed by experienced surgeons. Dr Shashank Shah and his team at Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India, specialize in treating gynecomastia.

Post-Surgery Outcomes

Patients who undergo surgery for gynecomastia typically report high satisfaction with the results. 

The procedures restore a flatter chest contour, leading to improved self-confidence and quality of life. Recovery is generally quick, and complications are rare.

Why Choose Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India?

When considering treatment for gynecomastia, it’s important to consult an experienced professional. 

Dr. Shashank Shah at Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India, is a leading expert in treating gynecomastia and other obesity-related conditions. 

With years of experience and cutting-edge techniques, Dr. Shah offers personalized treatment plans that prioritize patient comfort and effective results.

Taking Control of Gynecomastia

It’s important to understand that gynecomastia is a common condition that affects men of all ages, but it’s also highly treatable. 

Your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to seek help, both for physical treatment and emotional support. 

Remember, taking steps to address this issue, whether through lifestyle changes, medical interventions, or simply reaching out for support, shows strength and self-care.

Everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their own body. 

If you’re dealing with gynecomastia, know that there is hope and help available, and that you have nothing to be ashamed of in seeking that help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing gynecomastia, consult with Dr. Shashank Shah at Laparo Obeso Centre, Pune, India, to explore your options. 

With the right treatment plan, you can regain confidence and improve your quality of life.

In today’s world, being informed about your health and taking action can make a big difference. 

13 Reasons Why Thousands of International Patients Choose Dr. Shashank Shah’s Laparo-Obeso Center for Bariatric Surgery in India

1. Dr. Shashank Shah’s Expertise

With over 32 years of experience and 50,000+ surgeries performed, Dr. Shah is a pioneer in laparoscopic bariatric surgery. He has completed more than 10,000 bariatric procedures and was the first surgeon globally to be awarded the “super surgeon” title. 

His research on surgical treatment for Type 2 diabetes earned him the prestigious Vivian Fonseca Scholar Award from the American Diabetes Association.

2. Accredited Center of Excellence

Laparo-Obeso Center is the first in the world to be certified as a Centre of Excellence by the Surgical Review Committee of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. 

The center is also ranked as Pune’s No. 1 single-specialty hospital for bariatric surgery and is NABH accredited, ensuring top-quality and safety standards in all procedures.

3. Positive Patient Outcomes

Many patients report significant weight loss and improvements in conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure after surgery. Success stories from former patients highlight the center’s ability to deliver lasting, life-changing results.

4. Expertise in High-Risk Cases 

Dr. Shah has successfully handled complex cases, including patients with severe obesity. His expertise in treating high-risk cases has earned him international trust and respect from patients worldwide.

“Padma Shri Dr. D.Y. Patil was operated at the age of 74 with history with history of 5 angioplasties, uncontrolled diabetes (200 unites of insulin everyday)and severe breathlessness. And all the comorbidities were resolves post surgery.”  

5. Personalized Care

Every patient receives a custom treatment plan based on their health profile. The center focuses on personalized care from pre-operative assessments to post-operative nutrition and recovery, ensuring better weight loss and health outcomes.

6. Advanced Surgical Techniques

Dr. Shah uses the latest laparoscopic methods, which mean smaller cuts, less pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. 

These modern techniques reduce the risk of complications, making the experience smoother and more comfortable for patients.

7. Comprehensive Support

The center offers full support before and after surgery, including nutrition counseling, psychological help, and access to support groups. This holistic care helps patients adjust to lifestyle changes, improving long-term results.

8. Affordable Costs

Bariatric surgery in India is much more affordable than in many Western countries, typically costing between $3,500 and $6,500. This makes it easier for patients to receive top-quality care without the financial burden.

9. No Waiting Times

Unlike healthcare systems where patients wait months for elective surgeries, the Laparo-Obeso Center allows patients to schedule their surgery quickly, providing timely care for obesity-related health issues.

10. Multilingual Team

The center’s staff speaks multiple languages, including English, ensuring international patients can communicate clearly about their treatment and concerns without language barriers.

11. Supportive Environment

The center is known for its caring and attentive staff. They create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their treatment.

12. Tourism and Recovery

Patients can combine treatment with exploring India’s rich culture and beautiful scenery. The center often helps patients plan recovery time to enjoy local attractions, making their stay more fulfilling.

13. Global Recognition

Dr. Shah and the Laparo-Obeso Center are internationally recognized, drawing patients from across the globe. Their excellence in bariatric surgery has been featured by media outlets such as the BBC and National Geographic, highlighting Dr. Shah’s groundbreaking work.

Patients choose the Laparo-Obeso Center not only for its advanced medical care but for the personalized, supportive environment that makes each patient’s journey smoother and more successful

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery for Hypertension 

You have hypertension, or high blood pressure when the pressure in your arteries is too high for a long time. Your heart is like a pump pushing blood through hoses (your arteries). Imagine your heart has to consistently push too hard. It can cause problems. 

The blood pressure is measured with two numbers: systolic (when your heart beats) and diastolic (when your heart rests). 

If your blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg or higher, you might have hypertension.

How Obesity Affects Blood Pressure

Research shows that being very overweight, or obese, is a major cause of high blood pressure, or hypertension. 

In fact, up to 75% of people with high blood pressure are also obese. 

Obesity and blood pressure affect each other: being obese can lead to high blood pressure, and having high blood pressure can make people gain weight. This creates a cycle that makes it harder to treat and manage both conditions.

Let’s understand how obesity, or being very overweight, can lead to hypertension

Here are 5 factors that affect the blood pressure.

1. Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system helps control blood pressure and fluid balance. Extra fat can make this system work too much. When it’s overactive, it raises blood pressure by holding onto sodium and making blood vessels tighter.
2. Sympathetic Nervous System: Extra belly fat can make this part of your body work harder, speeding up your heart and raising blood pressure.
3. Hormones: Obesity messes with hormones, causing insulin problems and inflammation, which can damage blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
4. Kidney Pressure: Extra weight puts pressure on your kidneys, making them less effective at controlling blood pressure.
5. Endothelial Dysfunction: Obesity can inflame your blood vessels, making them less flexible, which raises blood pressure.

Blood pressure is one of the most common issues in India and people live with it and accept it as part of their normal life.

However, when someone is obese and has a BMI of 35 kg/m² or more, the situation may get worse.

Complications of High Blood Pressure

Let’s understand why it is critical to manage hypertension if you are also obese.

Heart Disease: Over time, high blood pressure can damage your arteries, leading to reduced blood flow. This can lead to serious heart problems, like heart attacks and heart failure. 

Stroke: There is a risk of stroke because of blocking or bursting blood vessels in the brain, which can cause brain damage.

Kidney Damage: High blood pressure can harm the small blood vessels in your kidneys, leading to kidney disease or failure.

Vision Problems: It can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, which might lead to vision problems or even loss of sight.

Cognitive Decline: When the brain receives less blood flow than needed, it can cause memory problems and increase the risk of dementia.

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Arteries in your legs may become narrow, making walking painful.

Hypertensive Crisis: Extremely high blood pressure (180/120 mm Hg or more) can cause an emergency that needs immediate treatment.

At the Laparo-Obeso Centre in Pune, India, Dr Shahsank Shah has operated on thousands of patients who were obese and had hypertension.

When Bariatric Surgery Might Help

Dr Shashank Shah recommends bariatric surgery as a great option for people with severe obesity and high blood pressure. 

Here are the situations in which you may consider bariatric surgery:

Uncontrolled Hypertension: You are taking several medications, but your blood pressure is still high 

Resistant Hypertension: If you consistently need three or more medicines to control your blood pressure.

Obesity Levels: If you have a BMI between 30 and 39.9 kg/m² and high blood pressure, and exercise and diet aren’t working for you.

This means if you are obese and fighting with high blood pressure and even multiple medications are not getting things in control, you should consider bariatric surgery.

What Are the Benefits of Bariatric Surgery for Hypertension 

Possible Remission: Many people see their high blood pressure go away after surgery. About 60-70% of patients have their blood pressure controlled within the first year.

Less Medication: About 83.7% of patients who had gastric bypass surgery reduced their blood pressure medications, compared to only 12.8% who used just medicine.

Long-Term Results: The rates of getting rid of high blood pressure can be as high as 50% within a year, and 31.9% after around 6.5 years.

How Surgery Helps Lower Blood Pressure

Weight Loss: Losing a lot of weight can lower blood pressure.

Better Insulin Sensitivity: Improved insulin use can help manage blood pressure.

Less Inflammation: Surgery can reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to high blood pressure.

Hormonal Changes: Surgery increases hormones that help get rid of sodium, which can lower blood pressure.

Kidney Function: Less fat around the kidneys means less pressure on them, improving blood pressure control.

What Are The Changes You Feel After Treating Hypertension

Here’s what we have observed about our patients once they manage or cure high blood pressure.

Physical Changes:

More Energy: Your organs and tissues get better oxygen and nutrition with better blood flow.  You feel more energetic and less tired.

Better Sleep: Your sleep may improve, as high blood pressure often disrupts sleep.

Fewer Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, or nosebleeds might go away, making you feel better overall.

Weight Loss: Imagine 60 to 80% of extra weight is shredded from your body – you feel lighter, more energetic and 

Easier Physical Activity: With better blood pressure, physical activities may become easier and more enjoyable.

And it doesn’t stop at the physical changes.

Emotional and Psychological Changes Of Managing or Curing Hypertension:

Increased Confidence: You feel more in control of your health.

Less Anxiety: You feel more relaxed rather than being anxious most of the time.

Improved Mood: Since you feel better physically it often leads to a better mood and outlook on life.

Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully managing or curing hypertension can make you feel proud and motivated to keep up with healthy habits.

Understanding how hypertension works, and how obesity affects it, can help in managing and preventing serious health issues. 

Whether through lifestyle changes or medical interventions, taking steps to control blood pressure can lead to a healthier and happier life.

If you are struggling with obesity and hypertension, consulting with Dr. Shashank Shah could be the first step towards better health.