What Causes Breast Enlargement in Men?

Breast enlargement in men, medically known as gynecomastia, is most common in adolescent boys and elderly men. Even so, it can affect males of all ages. Researchers estimate that 50-65% of boys and men worldwide struggle with gynecomastia.  

What causes a man’s breast tissue to overdevelop?

The problem is usually a hormonal imbalance. If your ratio between estrogen and testosterone is off, it triggers unwanted changes, including swelling in your breast tissue. It can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly. 

The good news is that gynecomastia is highly treatable. In this blog, Rick J. Smith, MD, explains gynecomastia and what you can do about it.

Gynecomastia explained

Typically, gynecomastia results from an imbalance in hormone levels where estrogen (female hormones) outpaces androgens (male hormones). This imbalance can occur for many reasons, including natural hormonal changes, medication side effects, and underlying health conditions.

Natural hormone changes

Your hormone levels naturally fluctuate with age. When you were born, you had excess estrogen from your mother’s body in your system, which explains why baby boys often have swollen breasts. 

Adolescent boys going through puberty can experience temporary gynecomastia, too. Finally, middle-aged and older men whose testosterone levels naturally decline can end up with a hormonal imbalance that leads to gynecomastia.

Medication side effects

Certain medications can disrupt your hormone balance, leading to breast enlargement. For example, if you take any of the following drugs and notice breast enlargement, there may be a link:

• Anabolic steroids
• HIV medication
• Anti-anxiety drugs
• Antidepressants
• Heart medication
• Marijuana or heroin
• Chemotherapy
• Prostate cancer medication

Talk to Dr. Smith about your medications. You may be able to switch prescriptions safely and eliminate the side effects. 

Important: Never stop taking prescribed medication without consulting with Dr. Smith or your primary care physician.

Certain health conditions

Sometimes, gynecomastia stems from another health condition that throws off your hormones. Some frequently identified conditions that could lead to gynecomastia include:

• Hypogonadism
• Adrenal gland or pituitary tumors
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Lung cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Traumatic injuries

Weight challenges can exacerbate gynecomastia, but it generally isn’t the primary cause. 

Physical and emotional impacts of gynecomastia

Gynecomastia usually begins as a small tender lump in your breast tissue underneath the nipple area. Feel your breast tissue regularly to know what’s normal for you and what’s not. 

If you ever feel an unusual lump or mass of fatty tissue, seek medical attention — if it’s not benign gynecomastia, it could be another health condition that requires immediate treatment.

Sometimes, the emotional impacts are more significant than the physical. Many men with this condition feel embarrassed or anxious about their appearance. It can affect self-esteem and body image, leading to social isolation or depression in severe cases.

How to treat gynecomastia 

The best treatment for gynecomastia depends on the underlying cause. 

If it results from medication or another health condition, addressing that issue may resolve the problem. In other cases, medication to rebalance hormone levels can help.

However, once enlarged, breast tissue tends to hold onto fat and can remain swollen even if you lose considerable weight. In that case, Dr. Smith can perform a simple surgical procedure, such as liposuction. He makes a small incision, inserts a cannula, and removes excess fat and tissue. 

You can expect some post-surgical swelling and discoloration, but you’ll be back to your regular activities within a week of the treatment. 

Gynecomastia myths and misconceptions

We understand if you feel uncomfortable talking about your breast tissue, but we want you to know you have many easy treatment options for gynecomastia. We also want to dispel the many myths and misconceptions so you understand the truth about your condition.

First, gynecomastia isn’t caused by obesity (although excess fat can make breasts appear larger).

Second, it’s not a sign of weakness or femininity.

Furthermore, gynecomastia is a common medical condition that can occur in any man, regardless of age, fitness level, or masculinity.

Finally, gynecomastia is treatable. 

If you have enlarged breasts, request an appointment online or call Rick J. Smith, MD, to discuss your surgical options for treating gynecomastia.