Gynecomastia is characterized by an overdevelopment of breast tissue in men and boys. While it is common, it can still lead to feelings of insecurity and discomfort when partaking in sports and physical activities.

It is most commonly associated with an imbalance in testosterone and estrogen, which are responsible for puberty, menstruation, and sperm production. However, several factors can affect these hormones and lead to the overdevelopment of breast tissue in men.

Keep reading to learn the causes behind gynecomastia to determine if treatment is the solution for you.

Natural Hormonal Shifts

The body’s hormones can shift naturally at different times, such as during puberty or with age. Puberty is a common cause of gynecomastia in boys, as the hormones are shifting and the body is developing. As their hormones return to normal, most boys experience a reduction in breast tissue.

Gynecomastia is also common for men between 50 and 80 years old, affecting between 24% and 65% of men. (The variation in this number is likely due to the fact that many men do not seek treatment for their gynecomastia.) The reason may lie in the fact that men produce less testosterone as they age, which can lead to an imbalance in testosterone and estrogen levels, causing gynecomastia. Unlike during puberty, this is unlikely to go away on its own and may require treatment if you are dissatisfied with your chest.

Medications

A side effect of some medications may be gynecomastia, including:

• Anti-androgens
• Anabolic steroids
• Antiretroviral medications
• ADHD and anti-anxiety medications
• Chemotherapy
• Ulcer medicines

If you are taking any of these and have developed gynecomastia, speak with your doctor about switching medications.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can also cause a hormonal imbalance leading to gynecomastia, such as hypogonadism, aging, tumors, and more.

Male Breast Reduction in Campbell, CA

If you’re interested in receiving treatment for your gynecomastia, schedule a consultation with Dr. Regina Rosenthal. She can determine the possible cause of your gynecomastia and evaluate your health to determine if male breast reduction in Campbell, CA, is right for you.

As a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, Dr. Rosenthal can help you achieve your aesthetic goals to provide you with confidence and comfort.

Contact the office today at (408) 559-4700 to schedule an appointment.