What Causes Gynecomastia?

A rather natural phenomenon, gynecomastia occurs in the male body in three stages – infancy, puberty, and advanced age. It is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance that results in the enlargement of breast tissues. The causes of gynecomastia consist of an increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men or an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone, which might slightly increase your risk of breast cancer. Dr. Zoran Potrapic, a prestigious leader in South Florida plastic surgery, works to help males reduce and eventually get rid of gynecomastia.  

Gynecomastia is usually a benign condition. It may be linked to many different causes of hormone changes or side effects from medications. In many cases, the cause is unknown. Gynecomastia can be a side effect of certain medicines, such as antidepressants, antibiotics, chemotherapy, prostate cancer medicines, ulcer, or cardiovascular medicines. Illegal drugs, such as anabolic steroids, heroin, or marijuana, can also cause gynecomastia. 

Gynecomastia From Steroids

A common side effect of steroid abuse in men is the development of breast tissue, known medically as gynecomastia or ‘gyno’ in the bodybuilding scene. Many men are putting themselves at risk of one of the main causes of gynecomastia by abusing steroids. 

The testes stop producing testosterone to save resources when taking steroids because the body gets an abundance of the hormone from the drugs. Abusing steroids for long periods of time can lead to the permanent shutdown of natural testosterone, creating a hormonal imbalance in the body. Increasing the production of estrogen, the female hormone associated with the development of breast tissue. 

How to Tell if You Have Gynecomastia

Most adult men with gynecomastia do not report their symptoms. Signs and symptoms of the condition may include: 

• Pain, particularly in adolescents
• Swollen and enlarged breast tissue
• Breast tissue tenderness
• Nipple sensitivity with rubbing against clothes 
• Stretched areolas
• Asymmetrical breasts
• Sagging breasts

No matter which of the causes of gynecomastia one is affected by, glandular breast tissue develops in one or both breasts. This tissue may be located directly behind the nipple. Gently feel your breast with your fingertips. If you have gynecomastia, you should feel a soft, rubbery lump in one or both breasts. The size of the lump can vary and may not be the same in both breasts. Breast buds in puberty-age boys are typically the size of a nickel or quarter. 

When you should see a doctor:

• Swelling
• Pain or tenderness
• Nipple discharge in one or both breasts

Dr. Zoran Potrapic will be able to determine the underlying cause and recommend the right treatment for gynecomastia. 

How to Get Rid of Gynecomastia

The type of gynecomastia you’re experiencing will influence the corrective procedure Dr. Zoran will recommend. As a condition characterized by enlarged breasts in males, more men than ever are considering gynecomastia surgery. 

If you are looking for a way to get rid of the enlarged breast tissue that is causing pain, discomfort, or nipple discharge, then surgery for gynecomastia might be the best option. This will reduce the breast size by flattening and enhancing the chest contours. 

Dr. Zoran Can Help You

Dr. Zoran can be referred to as the best plastic surgeon in South Florida for the amount of knowledge and experience he has in the field. If you are considering having gynecomastia surgery, then give us a call or request a consultation. If you’re interested in learning more about all cosmetic surgery in Fort Lauderdale, feel free to read some of our other expert articles!

Related Readings

• All You Need To Know About Male Body Contouring 
• Gynecomastia Caused By Medication
• Everything You Need to Know about Men’s Nipples

Faith

Dr. Zoran Potparic is a board certified plastic surgeon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, committed to performing surgery of the highest quality, safety, and artistry. He applies his years of global study and research, as well as more than 30 years of hands-on experience performing reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for patients coming from all over the United States.