What Causes Man Boobs?

December 8, 2023
Crown Clinic

Last updated on December 8, 2023

Understanding what causes man boobs, or gynecomastia, is a concern for many men. This condition, characterised by enlarged male breasts and breast swelling can lead to discomfort and self-consciousness.

Here at Crown Clinic in Sydney, we believe in providing clear, expert insights into the health issues our patients face. So, let’s explore the causes of gynecomastia and begin to understand the steps you can take towards treatment.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Basics: What Causes Man Boobs?

Man boobs, medically known as gynecomastia, arise from a variety of underlying factors. Uncovering what causes man boobs is the first step towards effective management and treatment. Here are some key contributors:

Hormonal Imbalances

Our bodies are governed by hormones, which act like messengers telling our cells what to do. For men, the primary hormones are testosterone and estrogen. Men have estrogen too, just like women have some testosterone. But when a man’s estrogen levels are too high or his testosterone levels are too low, it can lead to the growth of breast tissue.

It’s a bit like the body getting mixed signals on whether to develop male or female characteristics. This hormonal seesaw can happen naturally as men get older or it might be caused by medical conditions that mess with hormone production, such as hypogonadism, where the body doesn’t produce enough testosterone. Issues with the adrenal glands can also sometimes affect male boobs.

About 50% of people who receive dialysis treatment for kidney failure develop gynecomastia due to hormone changes.

Obesity

Carrying extra body fat does more than just change how you look; it also affects your hormone levels. Fat cells aren’t just inert storage bins for excess calories; they actively make estrogen. So, the more fat cells a man has, particularly around the belly, the more estrogen he’s likely to have in his system. This extra estrogen can encourage the body to develop breast tissue. That’s why doctors often recommend a weight management plan as part of treatment for gynecomastia.

Medication Side Effects

Man boobs causes are not always just lifestyle or hormones. Sometimes, the very medications designed to keep us healthy can have side effects that cause gynecomastia. Medications for managing heart disease, anxiety, or infections, as well as some drugs like anabolic steroids used to enhance muscle mass, can all potentially upset the body’s hormone balance and lead to unwanted breast tissue growth.

Alcohol and Substances

Lastly, what you consume can play a big role in the development of man boobs. Alcohol isn’t just hard on your liver; it can also affect your hormone levels. Drinking heavily can lower testosterone and increase estrogen, leading to gynecomastia. The same goes for certain recreational substances, like marijuana. They might seem harmless at the moment, but they can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in your body, contributing to the growth of breast tissue.

Understanding what causes man boobs, is an essential step in treating this condition.

Beyond the Aesthetics: Health Implications of Man Boobs

While often considered a cosmetic issue, it’s crucial to acknowledge the health implications tied to gynecomastia causes.

Psychological Impact

The emotional and psychological distress that can accompany gynecomastia is not to be underestimated. The condition can lead to a negative body image and impact mental well-being.

Underlying Health Conditions

Sometimes, the causes of gynecomastia can be a sign of other health concerns, such as liver or kidney disease or hormone-producing tumours. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out these conditions.

Crown Clinic can help you figure out what causes man boobs for you and the best way to remove excess breast tissue.

Why Choose Crown Clinic for Your Man Boobs / Gynecomastia?

At Crown Clinic, we understand the complexities surrounding what causes man boobs. We offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment, considering each patient’s unique circumstances.

Our team of seasoned professionals is equipped with the knowledge and expertise necessary to address your concerns effectively. We provide personalised care plans tailored to meet the individual needs of our patients, ensuring the most suitable and effective treatment options.
Utilising the latest advances in medical technology.

FAQs for the Cause of Gynecomastia

If you require more information, read our most frequently asked questions about what causes man boobs:

Can weight loss help with reducing man boobs?

Weight loss can contribute to reducing the appearance of man boobs if they’re primarily composed of fatty tissue. However, in cases of true gynecomastia, weight loss alone may not resolve the condition, and medical intervention might be recommended.

How do you reduce male breasts?

Male breasts can be reduced by combining a healthy diet and targeted exercise to manage weight and hormonal imbalances; in persistent cases, medical or surgical interventions like liposuction may be necessary.

What is the reason for male breasts?

Male breast enlargement, or gynecomastia, is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, obesity, or certain medical conditions.

Do push-ups get rid of excess breast tissue?

Push-ups can strengthen chest muscles and improve muscle definition but may not eliminate moobs (man boobs) or excess male breast tissue caused by excess glandular tissue, which could require surgical treatment.

Can enlarged breasts in men be cured?

Yes, male breast enlargement can often be resolved with lifestyle changes or medical treatment, and persistent cases can be addressed with surgical procedures for a permanent cure.

Can man boobs be a sign of breast cancer?

Man boobs are typically a result of gynecomastia, which is not cancerous or a sign of male breast cancer. However, although rare, men can develop breast cancer, and any unusual growths or lumps in breast tissue should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

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.