Understanding Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the development of enlarged breast tissue in males, commonly caused by hormonal imbalances or weight gain. While it may not be harmful to one’s physical health, it can severely impact a man’s self-confidence and quality of life. Men affected by this condition often feel restricted in their clothing choices, uncomfortable during physical activities, and may shy away from situations where they need to remove their shirts. Multiple studies have shown that approximately 10% of the entire  population of adult men of all ages in the United States have some degree of noticeable gynecomastia.  Is this you?

As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring and procedures for men, I have helped many patients regain their confidence through simple, effective treatments that permanently remove excess breast tissue.

Common Signs of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia affects a significant number of men. In fact, studies suggest that up to 70% of men aged 50 to 69 may experience this condition, with 50–60% of adolescent boys developing gynecomastia during puberty. Although it’s more common among older men and teenagers, men of all ages can be affected.

Some common symptoms to watch out for include:

• Enlarged Nipples: Swollen or puffy nipples that are more noticeable under tight clothing.
• Breast Sensitivity: Pain or tenderness in the breast area, especially during exercise..
• Breast Lumps: Palpable lumps under the skin.
• Nipple Discharge: Unusual discharge from one or both nipples.
• Sagging Tissue: Excess tissue that causes chafing or movement during physical activity.

If you notice any of these symptoms, particularly in one or both breasts, it’s important to seek a consultation to determine if gynecomastia is the cause.

Causes of Gynecomastia

Hormonal imbalances are often at the root of gynecomastia. Estrogen promotes breast tissue growth.  This hormone surges during puberty and then may become more prominent in aging men due to overall decreasing testosterone levels and having a relatively higher estrogen to testosterone ratio.  And conversely, having increasingly more testosterone due to medical conditions or injections can increase estrogen levels, as excess testosterone can be converted into estrogen. This imbalance can result in enlarged breast tissue, leading to the physical and psychological discomfort associated with gynecomastia.

Many oral supplements and medications can also stimulate these hormonal pathways, causing or promoting growth of male breast tissue such as:

• Herbs with phytoestrogenic properties mimicking estrogens, such as red clover, alfalfa, licorice, saw palmetto, ginseng, and black cohosh
• Gym supplements that act similarly to steroids, such as DHEA can cause gynecomastia
• Lavender oil or tea tree oil lotions and topical treatments can lead to both an increase in estrogens and a decrease in testosterone levels.
• Anabolic steroids, such as testosterone cypionate
• Heartburn and ulcer drugs, such as cimetidine, ranitidine, and omeprazole
• Antifungals, such as ketoconazole and metronidazole
• Agents used for chemotherapy such as Methotrexate and other alkylating medications
• Prostate cancer medications such as bicalutamide and flutamide

Certain health conditions may also contribute to the development of gynecomastia, including:

• Liver or Kidney Disease
• Lung Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Adrenal or Pituitary Tumors
• Congenital Disorders
• Thyroid Issues
• Obesity

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough diagnosis, as some cases of gynecomastia may signal underlying medical conditions that may require treatment.

Treatment for Gynecomastia

For many men, gynecomastia can be a source of significant emotional and physical discomfort. The good news is that it is treatable with a simple, minimally invasive procedure that permanently removes the excess tissue. Whether a patient has mild or severe gynecomastia, Dr. Brown tailors his approach to their specific needs. During the consultation, he will work closely with the patient to provide a clear diagnosis and develop a treatment plan designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Dr. Daniel Brown?

Over the past 15 years, Dr. Brown has successfully treated hundreds of men, restoring their confidence and masculine physique. With extensive experience in body contouring and male-specific procedures, he is committed to providing patients with natural, remarkable results.  He prides himself on being a trusted advisor, offering direct recommendations with a caring and collaborative approach. His goal is to help patients regain confidence and improve their quality of life through personalized treatments.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you believe you may be experiencing gynecomastia, Dr. Brown encourages you to schedule a consultation. His team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and compassionate care every step of the way.

Call (619) 461-1500 today to schedule your appointment at our La Jolla or Carmel Valley offices and start your journey to a more confident you.