What Causes Gynecomastia?

An elderly man holding a yoga mat and a bottle of water. Also known as male breast enlargement, gynecomastia is caused by an imbalance in the production of testosterone and estrogen. These hormones control different traits in the human body. When male estrogen levels are too high or out of balance with testosterone production, breast tissue can become enlarged.

Not all cases of gynecomastia are caused by an underlying condition. In fact, gynecomastia is most likely to occur naturally at different stages of life. This includes:

  • After Birth. Since newborns still have large amounts of estrogen from their mother while developing in the womb, they are usually born with enlarged breasts. This usually goes away within a month or so but can sometimes persist for a few weeks longer.
  • During Puberty. When a male goes through puberty, their hormone levels can drastically change. As a result, many boys 12-14 years old can have gynecomastia. In most cases, the breast enlargement subsides in 6-24 months after the start of puberty.
  • After Mid-Lift. Around 25% of males between the ages of 50 and 80 end up developing gynecomastia. This form is often more persistent, lasting for several years.

While these are some of the most common causes of gynecomastia, there are other conditions that can affect hormone balances. This includes obesity, tumors, liver disease, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, and lack of proper nutrition. Gynecomastia is also a common side effect for the following drugs:

  • Estrogens
  • Anabolic steroids
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Anxiety medications
  • Heartburn medications
  • Bacterial and fungal treatments
  • Amphetamines
  • Marijuana
  • Methadone
  • Heroin
  • Alcohol

While gynecomastia is not usually permanent, it can be embarrassing for many men. Dr. Zachary Farris understands this and can perform a male breast reduction that restores your confidence and boosts your self-esteem. Whether your gynecomastia is caused by weight, medication, or age, Dr. Farris can help you reclaim your desired look.

Need a Male Breast Reduction? Contact Farris Plastic Surgery Today

If you have gynecomastia and want to reduce the size of your breasts, call us at 214-363-1073 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Farris. He will create a custom treatment to help you regain your masculinity. We are proud to serve patients from our practice in Dallas, TX.

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