Gynecomastia - Enlarged breasts in men

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Understanding Gynecomastia

Overview

Gynecomastia (guy-nuh-koh-MAS-tee-uh) is an increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men. An imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone causes it. Gynecomastia can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly.

Pseudogynecomastia is an increase in fat but not gland tissue in male breasts.

Newborns, boys going through puberty and older men may develop gynecomastia due to natural changes in hormone levels. There are other causes too.

Most often, gynecomastia isn’t a serious problem. But it can be tough to cope with the condition. People with gynecomastia sometimes have pain in their breasts. And they may feel embarrassed.

Gynecomastia may go away on its own. If it doesn’t, medicine or surgery may help.

Symptoms

Causes

In people assigned male at birth, the body mainly makes the sex hormone testosterone. It also makes small amounts of the hormone estrogen. Gynecomastia can happen when the amount of testosterone in the body drops compared with estrogen. The decrease can be caused by conditions that lower testosterone or block its effects. Or it can be caused by conditions that raise the estrogen level.

Risk factors

Risk factors for gynecomastia include:
Puberty.
Left.
Obesity.
Use of Anabolic Steroids to enhance athletic performance.
There are some diseases. These include liver and kidney disease, thyroid disease, Klinefelter syndrome, and some tumors.

Prevention

Several factors within your control may lower the risk of gynecomastia:

Don’t use drugs. Examples include anabolic steroids, amphetamines, heroin and marijuana.
Limit or stay away from alcohol. It helps not to drink alcohol. If you do drink, do so in moderation. That means no more than two drinks a day for men.

Diagnosis

To find out if you have gynecomastia, a member of your health care team starts by asking you some questions. For example, you’ll likely be asked about your symptoms and any medicines you take. You’re also given a medical exam to check your breast tissue, stomach area and genitals.

Tests

Your health care team likely will order tests. These can help find a possible cause of gynecomastia or look for conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Tests also may be done to check for breast cancer. You may need exams such as:

Blood tests.
Mammograms — This is an X-ray of the breast.
Computerized tomography (CT) scans — This is a series of X-rays taken from different angles.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans — This imaging test uses a magnetic field and radio waves.
Testicular ultrasounds — This uses sound waves to make images of the testicles and the tissue around them.
Tissue biopsies — This procedure removes a tiny piece of tissue, which gets checked in a lab.

Treatments

Gynecomastia often goes away over time without treatment. But if gynecomastia is caused by a medical condition, that condition may need treatment.

If you take medicine that may be the cause of gynecomastia, ask your health care team about your choices. Your doctor may have you stop the medicine or try a different one.

Often, no treatment is needed for teenagers who have gynecomastia due to natural hormone changes during puberty. A teen’s health care team may recommend checkups every 3 to 6 months to see if the condition is getting better on its own. Gynecomastia in teens often goes away without treatment in less than two years.

Treatment may be needed if gynecomastia doesn’t get better on its own. Treatment also can help if the condition causes pain, tenderness or embarrassment.

Frequently Asked Question on Gynecomastia

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by the enlargement of breast tissue in males. It can affect one or both breasts and may result in swelling, tenderness, or pain in the affected area.

Is gynecomastia common?

Gynecomastia is relatively common and can affect males of all ages, from infants to older adults. It is estimated that up to 70% of adolescent boys experience some degree of breast enlargement during puberty, although the condition often resolves on its own without treatment. Persistent gynecomastia beyond puberty is less common but still occurs in a significant number of cases.

Can gynecomastia go away on its own?

In many cases, gynecomastia that develops during puberty resolves on its own within a few months to a few years as hormone levels stabilize. However, persistent gynecomastia beyond puberty may require medical evaluation and treatment to address underlying causes and alleviate symptoms.

What are the treatment options for gynecomastia?

Treatment options for gynecomastia depend on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual preferences. In some cases, conservative measures such as lifestyle modifications (such as weight loss or reducing alcohol intake) or medication adjustments may be sufficient to manage gynecomastia. In other cases, surgical interventions such as liposuction or mastectomy (removal of breast tissue) may be recommended to achieve desired results.

Is gynecomastia associated with breast cancer?

Gynecomastia itself is not typically associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. However, certain underlying medical conditions that can cause gynecomastia may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. It is important for individuals with gynecomastia to undergo medical evaluation and screening as recommended by their healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions and monitor breast health.

Is gynecomastia reversible?

The reversibility of gynecomastia depends on various factors, including the underlying cause and duration of the condition. In some cases, gynecomastia may resolve on its own without treatment, especially if it is related to hormonal changes during puberty. However, persistent or severe cases of gynecomastia may require medical evaluation and treatment to achieve desired results. Treatment options such as medication adjustments, lifestyle modifications, or surgical interventions may be recommended to address gynecomastia and alleviate symptoms. It is important for individuals with gynecomastia to work with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on their individual needs and preferences.