Dallas surgeon Dr. Vasdev Rai is often asked by his Dallas gynecomastia patients: Do I need mammograms for my male breasts?

Gynecomastia can be caused by some of the factors which increase your risk of breast cancer. All men need to be watchful for the signs of male breast cancer. We hear all the time about the importance of self-exams for women, but most men do not know that they should be performing self-exams, too. Periodic mammograms are also a good idea for men.

Male Breast Cancer

Male breast cancer is very rare, but it is also more deadly than female breast cancer. It spreads faster and tends to be more resistant to treatment. As with all cancers, early detection is the key to survival.

If any lump or change is noticed during a self-exam, talk to your doctor right away. A mammogram may be appropriate, and other imaging tests such as ultrasound and MRI may be performed. Your doctor will need your full medical history as well as your family history. Factors which increase the risk of male breast cancer include:

  • A family history of breast cancer
  • Exposure to excess estrogen
  • Radiation treatments to the chest
  • Obesity
  • Being 60 years old or older
  • Liver problems
  • Klinefelter’s syndrome

Many of these risk factors are risk factors because they cause the same hormonal imbalance that can cause male breasts to develop.

Speak with Dr. Rai to find out if you need mammograms for your male breasts.  If you would like to learn more about your gynecomastia options, please contact the Cosmetic Surgical Center to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Vasdev Rai. Dr. Rai provides cosmetic surgery procedures to men living in Dallas, Fort Worth, and surrounding areas of Texas.