Understanding Gynecomastia: Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Causes

• March 27, 2024
• Crown Clinic

Last updated on March 19, 2024

Gynecomastia is a prevalent issue, affecting up to 65% of adolescent boys and 30% to 70% of adult men at some point. While breast tissue enlargement has not been linked to male breast cancer risks, swollen breast tissue can be a source of discomfort for many. Knowing the symptoms and causes of gynecomastia as well as gynecomastia treatment options is vital for those experiencing it and for those seeking to support them.

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, leading to a more feminine chest appearance. It can affect one or both breasts.

Types of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can present in various forms, each with distinct characteristics. The most common types of gynecomastia include:

Physiologic Gynecomastia

Breast tissue growth can occur naturally during infancy, puberty, and ageing due to hormonal fluctuations. Usually resolves without intervention.

Pseudogynecomastia

This condition results from excess fat accumulation in the chest area, often due to obesity.

Drug-induced gynecomastia

Caused by certain medications disrupting hormone balance or directly stimulating breast tissue growth.

Gynecomastia is a condition that causes breast enlargement in males. The most common types are physiologic gynecomastia, pseudogynecomastia, and drug-induced gynecomastia.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia manifests primarily as breast enlargement in males, either in one or both breasts. Additional symptoms may include:

• Swollen or tender breasts
• Enlarged nipples or areolas
• Asymmetric breast growth

It’s essential to differentiate gynecomastia from pseudogynecomastia, which refers to fat accumulation in the chest due to obesity. Accurate diagnosis by a healthcare professional is crucial.

Causes of Gynecomastia

Several factors can cause someone to develop gynecomastia in one or both breasts:

Hormonal Imbalance

Changes in hormone levels, particularly an increase in oestrogen relative to testosterone, can stimulate breast tissue growth in one or more breasts. In adolescents, this oestrogen excess can cause pubertal gynecomastia.

Medications

Some medications, including anabolic steroids, anti-androgens, and certain HIV medications, can disrupt hormone balance and cause someone to develop gynecomastia.

Health Conditions

Medical conditions affecting hormone levels, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, or the endocrine system, such as hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, and tumours, can cause a person to develop gynecomastia.

Substance Use

Substance abuse, including alcohol, marijuana, and certain illicit drugs, can interfere with hormone regulation and promote breast tissue growth.

Hereditary Factors

Genetics may predispose individuals to gynecomastia, although the specific genes involved are not fully understood.

Gynecomastia can be caused by genetics, certain medications, hormonal imbalance, substance use, and health conditions that affect the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, or the endocrine system.

Treatment Options for Gynecomastia

The approach to treating gynecomastia depends on various factors, including the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual preferences.

Observation and Lifestyle Modifications

This approach often involves monitoring the condition over time to see if the excess breast tissue resolves spontaneously. Additionally, making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs, and discontinuing medications such as anabolic steroids which are known to cause adult and pubertal gynecomastia can help manage symptoms.

Medications

Hormonal therapy or medications may be prescribed to address gynecomastia, particularly in cases where hormone imbalances from adult or pubertal gynecomastia are contributing to the condition. These medications should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

Surgical Gynecomastia Treatment

Surgical gynecomastia treatment may be recommended for individuals with persistent or severe gynecomastia that does not respond to conservative measures. Liposuction and mastectomy surgical treatments are typically reserved for adults who have completed puberty and whose gynecomastia and growth of male breast tissue has stabilised. You can see our before and after results here.

Psychological Support

Counseling or support groups may be beneficial for individuals struggling with body image issues related to gynecomastia. Providing emotional support and reassurance can also help individuals cope with the challenges associated with this condition.
Overall, the choice of treatment for gynecomastia should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account the individual’s medical history, preferences, and treatment goals.

Gynecomastia treatment can include changing medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery. It is often combined with counselling and psychological support.

Why Choose Crown Clinic for Gynecomastia Treatment

If you are looking for personalised care and gynecomastia treatment in Sydney, Crown Clinic is your top choice.

• Expertise and Experience: Our surgical team is not only skilled in hair restoration but also in the latest treatments for gynaecomastia, ensuring comprehensive care.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: We pride ourselves on creating individualised treatment plans with a focus on each patient’s unique needs.
• Patient-Centred Care: From your initial consultation through to recovery, we provide compassionate and dedicated care to guide you through your journey.

Contact us for a personalised consultation or view our before and after results here.

FAQs

Is gynecomastia permanent?

Gynecomastia can be temporary or permanent, depending on its underlying cause. While it often resolves on its own, medical intervention may be necessary if it persists or causes discomfort. It has not been linked to male breast cancer or testicular tumour risks.

Can I treat gynecomastia without surgery?

Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and avoiding triggering medications or substances like anabolic steroids, may help manage and treat gynecomastia. Hormonal therapy or medications may also be prescribed in certain cases where the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are not in balance.

How is gynecomastia diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of breast development, medical history review, and possibly blood tests to assess hormone levels for oestrogen excess. Imaging tests such as mammograms or ultrasound may also be recommended.

What are the surgical treatment options for gynecomastia?

Surgical treatments, such as liposuction to remove excess fat or mastectomy to remove glandular tissue, may be recommended for severe or persistent cases of male breast enlargement once breast development has stabilised.

Is gynecomastia associated with an increased risk of breast cancer?

While breast development in males itself is not a risk factor for breast cancer, breast enlargement can sometimes complicate the detection of breast cancer in males. Any new breast lump or abnormality should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out male breast cancer.

Is gynecomastia linked to prostate cancer or testicular tumours?

No, gynecomastia itself is not directly linked to prostate cancer or testicular cancer. However, certain conditions that affect hormone levels, such as hormone therapy for prostate cancer or testicular tumours, may indirectly contribute to the development of gynecomastia. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis of any concerning symptoms or changes in male breast tissue.

This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.