Natural gynecomastia treatments include taking herbal supplements, consuming a healthy diet, and employing a regular exercise routine. Certain exercises, such as those that can strengthen the chest muscles, are effective gynecomastia treatments and can decrease the appearance of gynecomastia, although they do little to treat the condition itself. In addition, eating a diet that is high in fiber and low in saturated fat can promote weight loss, including the fat that accumulates around the breast area.
Typically, gynecomastia refers to the enlargement of male breast tissue. Many times the cause is unknown, and other times the cause can be attributed to fluctuations in hormone levels, cysts, or tumors. Gynecomastia treatments are usually based upon the cause. When male patients exhibit symptoms of enlarged breast tissue, the doctor will generally recommend further medical evaluations such as hormonal testing, diagnostic medical imaging, and manual breast exam.
Normally, if the cause of gynecomastia is benign, the physician may suggest natural gynecomastia treatments. Increased consumption of sodium can contribute to excess fluid retention, which can also manifest itself in the breast tissue. This can exacerbate the condition, so patients are often advised to limit their sodium intake as a component of their gynecomastia treatments. Weight lifting can also be an effective treatment for male breast enlargement, as it builds up surrounding muscles.
Male cosmetic procedures, such as plastic surgery and body sculpting, are also effective gynecomastia treatments. Frequently, the patient is very self-conscious of his appearance, and the results of cosmetic breast surgery can be dramatic and visually pleasing. In fact, male body sculpting is one of the most effective gynecosmatia treatments because it offers permanent results. Other natural treatments for reducing male breast enlargement such as dietary and herbal supplements can be effective as well, however, they offer only temporary results.
When gynecomastia is caused by a cyst or tumor, the best option is surgical removal of the offending tissue. When the cyst or tumor is removed, swelling generally goes down, restoring the breast tissue to its natural appearance. Although rare, men can get breast cancer. When swelling is noticed about the breasts, men need to seek medical attention to rule out malignant causes. This is especially true when the swelling is noted on only one breast. A biopsy of the tissue may be done to help diagnose the problem.