Gynecomastia (Enlarged Breasts in Males)
Gynecomastia refers to enlarged breasts in males. This condition is common in teenagers, and often resolves on its own. However, if it persists for longer than 12 months, it may benefit from treatment.
What Is Gynecomastia?
At certain stages in life, including infancy, teenage years and old age, hormonal changes can lead to breast enlargement in males. In particular, in male teenagers, the condition may cause breast tenderness, and significant social anxiety. The breasts may grow unevenly. Most of the time, the condition resolves within 12 months. However, if the condition persists, treatment by a specialized team, which includes plastic surgeons, endocrinologists and psychologists, may be recommended.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
In the vast majority of cases, gynecomastia is idiopathic, which means that its cause is unknown.
In certain situations, gynecomastia can be caused by some other factors, including, but not limited to:
- Steroid use
- Use of certain medications, such as certain antibiotics, antidepressants and others
- Marijuana use
- Diseases of the liver or kidney
- Tumors of the testicles, adrenal glands or pituitary gland
- Genetic conditions
What Are the Symptoms of Gynecomastia?
Signs and symptoms of gynecomastia may include:
- Breast enlargement (sometimes asymmetric)
- Breast tenderness
- Discharge from the nipples
- Decreased body image
How Is Gynecomastia Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of gynecomastia is mostly based on history and physical examination. This includes a whole-body examination to look for other abnormalities. Evaluation by an endocrinologist, including blood work, may be necessary in certain situations.How Is Gynecomastia Treated?
If gynecomastia is found to be due to a known factor, such as a medication, then the primary physician may evaluate the possibility of addressing that factor directly. If it is thought to be due to a hormone abnormality or other medical condition, then that abnormality or condition should be treated first.
In the case of idiopathic gynecomastia, if the condition has been present for less than 12 months, or if the breast size has changed over the past 12 months, observation is usually recommended, as the condition may resolve on its own.
If the breast size has been stable for over 12 months, then breast surgery may be recommended.
Why Choose Nationwide Children's Hospital?
Our team of highly specialized breast providers includes plastic surgeons, endocrinologists, psychologists, nurses and nurse practitioners, dedicated to optimizing the experience and outcome of our patients.
