Gynecomastia is caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, medications, substance use, aging, and several others. However, at the core of these causes is the subject of hormonal imbalance.
Fluctuations in testosterone and estrogen levels can upset the body’s balance, resulting in male breast development. Understanding this fundamental principle and the factors that contribute to it is crucial in effectively managing gynecomastia.
At the Gynecomastia Center of Boston, we are here to help get you going in the right direction. Schedule a consultation today to meet with our doctor.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia stems from an imbalance of estrogen and testosterone. This involves an excess of estrogen, a deficiency of testosterone, or a combination of both. It is important to understand this imbalance when thinking about ways to reduce gynecomastia.
Enlargement of male breast tissue, which is frequently caused by this hormonal imbalance, is the main sign of gynecomastia.
Moreover, it’s essential to understand that in numerous cases, the root cause of gynecomastia remains unknown. In such cases, hormonal imbalance may not serve as the primary reason.
It is also important to consider that man boobs can also be caused by excess adipose (fatty) tissue in the breast. This can be a standalone issue (pseudogynecomastia), or it can frequently be an issue in combination with excess breast gland tissue. If excess fat accumulation is the only problem in your chest area, true gynecomastia causes may not be the primary culprit.
Infancy and Puberty
Infant boys and adolescents entering puberty may experience transient gynecomastia.
In infants, this is attributed to residual maternal estrogen and typically resolves within a few months. For adolescents, hormonal fluctuations during puberty lead to the condition, which generally resolves within 6 months to 2 years.
Gynecomastia is common in adolescent boys. As many as 60% of teenagers will have some signs of gynecomastia by the age of 14. It is largely due to the hormonal changes we all undergo during puberty.
This is a typical phase of puberty, and the symptoms typically subside within a span of two years. However, in some instances, the symptoms of gynecomastia may persist. In these cases, surgical intervention to address the issue may be necessary.
Substance Abuse & Alcoholism
The excessive use of certain substances can lead to cases of gynecomastia. Such substances include heroin, methadone, marijuana, methamphetamine, and other members of the amphetamine family.
Another substance abuse problem that is noticeably more common than illicit drug usage is alcoholism.
Beer, in particular, plays a significant role due to its high content of phytoestrogens. These are plant-based compounds known for their estrogen-mimicking effects.
While not conclusively proven, some scientists speculate that excessive intake of phytoestrogens may result in effects similar to those induced by elevated levels of true estrogen.
Aging
As men age, there’s a gradual decline in testosterone levels. This process typically initiates around the age of 30 and persists throughout life.
Individuals over the age of 50 are especially susceptible to developing gynecomastia. It’s estimated that up to 65% of men in this age bracket may develop senior gyno.
Anabolic Steroids
Professional bodybuilders frequently experience gynecomastia due to the use of anabolic drugs.
These steroids encourage testosterone production, which in turn may cause the body to convert excess testosterone into estrogen. In many cases, this can lead to bodybuilder gynecomastia.
High Body Fat Percentage
Two main factors explain why there are more cases of gynecomastia in people with higher body fat. First, there is an accumulation of fat in the chest area, and second, enhanced estrogen levels increase the chance of breast gland tissue formation.
On top of that, heightened levels of fat also can cause a decrease in testosterone and an elevation in estrogen levels. This is facilitated by an enzyme called aromatase, responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen.
This conversion takes place mostly in adipose tissue, which makes up around 85% of the process. Therefore, the more fat tissue there is, the more prominent the possible increase in estrogen levels.
Hypogonadism
Hypogonadism refers to a condition characterized by insufficient levels of androgens (the male hormones).
This insufficiency may result from a number of different things, such as radiation exposure, mechanical trauma, or medical disorders that harm the testes. Alternatively, it may result from impairment of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
Chronic Diseases
Disorders affecting the liver and kidneys, along with hyperthyroidism, have the potential to disrupt hormonal equilibrium. This can result in elevated estrogen levels and diminished androgens.
Additionally, hyperthyroidism can induce an upsurge in androgen levels, which paradoxically triggers a rise in estrogen. This occurs as the excess androgens undergo conversion by the body.
Prescription Medications
Many cases of gynecomastia can be attributed to the use of prescription medications. These include:
Consult with your doctor to determine whether the medications you are taking could potentially decrease testosterone levels or elevate estrogen production. It’s crucial to remember that even if these side effects do occur, you shouldn’t automatically stop taking your prescription. Instead, staying informed enables you to handle any possible hormonal shifts with the right actions.
Contact a Boston Gynecomastia Surgeon
Whether you are in Boston or any surrounding areas, schedule an appointment at the Gynecomastia Center of Boston and let us help you achieve your ideal results.
Our compassionate team is here to provide personalized care and effective solutions tailored to your needs. Schedule your consultation with a Boston gyno surgeon and take the first step towards addressing your gynecomastia.
At the Gynecomastia Center of Boston, we prioritize delivering exceptional care from your initial consultation to your recovery and beyond. We deeply value the trust you place in us and are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care. Our team, led by board-certified gynecomastia plastic surgeon Dr. Arthur Shektman, is devoted to achieving optimal outcomes for each individual. Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule your in-person or virtual free consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact the Gynecomastia Center of Boston today. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Gynecomastia Center of Boston
170 Worcester St #1
Wellesley, MA 02481
(781) 739-3354