Understanding Male Breast Enlargement Causes and Solutions
By Dr. David Samadi
Breast enlargement in men or boys, also known as gynecomastia, involves swelling of the breast tissue due to hormonal imbalances. While gynecomastia is generally not a severe health concern, it can be challenging for many individuals, causing embarrassment and potential emotional distress. In some cases, it may also result in breast tenderness or pain.
Recognizing Gynecomastia
The primary indicator of gynecomastia is noticeable swelling or enlargement of the breast tissue, often accompanied by tenderness. Unlike fatty tissue, the enlarged tissue in gynecomastia is glandular and may feel rubbery or firm. While it typically affects both breasts, it can sometimes occur in just one.
What Causes Male Breast Enlargement?
Gynecomastia usually arises from an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels. Both men and women have these hormones, but in differing amounts: men generally have higher testosterone levels, while women have higher estrogen levels. An imbalance, where testosterone levels decrease relative to estrogen, can lead to gynecomastia.
Several factors can disrupt this hormonal balance:
- Newborns: Temporary gynecomastia in newborns is often due to residual maternal estrogen. This condition usually resolves within a few weeks after birth.
- Puberty: Occasionally, due to hormonal changes during puberty temporary gynecomastia may occur in teenage boys. This typically resolves within six months to two years.
- Aging: Approximately 25% of men between ages 50 and 69 may experience gynecomastia, often due to hormonal shifts related to aging or certain medications.
Medications and Substances
Certain medications and substances can contribute to gynecomastia:
Medications:
- Anabolic steroids and androgens
- Anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., Valium)
- Antibiotics
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Heart medications (e.g., digoxin, calcium channel blockers)
- Ulcer medications (e.g., Tagamet HB)
Substances:
- Amphetamines
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Methadone
- Alcohol
Health Conditions
Various health conditions can also cause gynecomastia by affecting hormone levels:
- Hypogonadism
- Tumors
- Hyperthyroidism
- Kidney or liver failure
- Cirrhosis
- Malnutrition or starvation
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis typically will involve a physical examination of the breast tissue, abdomen, and genitals. To assess hormone levels, blood tests may be conducted helping determine the underlying cause of gynecomastia.
Treating gynecomastia wil be personalized depending on the cause and how severe the condition is. The treatment options may include the following:
- Observation: In many cases, gynecomastia resolves on its own over time.
- Medication Adjustment: If medications are the cause, your doctor may recommend discontinuing or substituting them.
- Medications: Prescription treatments might be considered in some cases.
- Surgery: For persistent or bothersome gynecomastia, surgical options include liposuction to removing excess fat or a mastectomy to remove glandular tissue.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of gynecomastia, consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.