Gynecomastia in Adolescent Males: Treatment Options and Insights

Gynecomastia in adolescent males

I am 170 cm tall and weigh 50 kg.
I started noticing a hard lump in my chest when I was 15 years old, and it has not disappeared even now at 19.
Since I am slim, the lump appears to protrude about 1 cm when viewed from the side, but it looks normal when I am cold.
One side has a diameter of 2 cm, while the other side is 3 cm, and it does not seem to be going away.
Should I continue to monitor it, or do you have any treatment recommendations? Thank you.

A-Ming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/17

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

1.
Gynecomastia in adolescent males may resolve naturally.
2.
Reduce intake of: 1.
Foods that may be rich in artificial or environmental hormones, such as fried chicken and fatty meats; 2.
Alcohol.
This may be helpful.
3.
If symptoms do not improve after puberty, surgery should be considered.
4.
Further consultation at a medical center is advisable to check for other issues, such as elevated prolactin levels.

Reply Date: 2021/07/17

More Info

Gynecomastia, the enlargement of breast tissue in males, is a common condition during puberty. It can occur due to hormonal changes, particularly an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen levels. In adolescent males, gynecomastia is often a temporary condition that resolves on its own as hormone levels stabilize. However, in some cases, it can persist into adulthood, as you have experienced.

At 19 years old, if you have noticed that the breast tissue has not decreased in size since you were 15, it is understandable to seek further evaluation and treatment options. The condition can be classified into two types: physiological and pathological. Physiological gynecomastia is typically related to the natural hormonal fluctuations during puberty, while pathological gynecomastia may be due to underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or other medical conditions.

Given your description of the breast tissue being firm and not reducing in size, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider, preferably an endocrinologist or a specialist in male health. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests to assess hormone levels. This will help determine whether your gynecomastia is physiological or if there are other contributing factors.

In terms of treatment options, if the gynecomastia is determined to be physiological and is not causing significant discomfort or psychological distress, a "watchful waiting" approach may be recommended. Many cases resolve spontaneously over time. However, if the condition is persistent and bothersome, there are several treatment options available:
1. Medication: In some cases, medications that adjust hormone levels may be prescribed. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) like tamoxifen can be effective in reducing breast tissue in some individuals.

2. Surgery: If gynecomastia is severe or does not respond to medical treatment, surgical options such as liposuction or mastectomy may be considered. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where the condition causes significant physical discomfort or emotional distress.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular exercise can help manage gynecomastia, especially if it is related to excess body fat. In some cases, weight loss can reduce breast tissue size.

4. Avoiding Certain Substances: If gynecomastia is linked to the use of certain medications or substances (like anabolic steroids, marijuana, or alcohol), discontinuing these may help resolve the condition.

It is important to note that while gynecomastia can be a source of embarrassment or self-consciousness, it is a common condition and often does not indicate a serious health issue. However, addressing any underlying hormonal imbalances or health concerns is crucial for overall well-being.

In conclusion, while gynecomastia can be a benign condition, your ongoing symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and help you determine the best course of action moving forward. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many young men experience similar issues during their development.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gynecomastia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Could you please tell me if these symptoms during puberty will diminish after 2 to 3 years? Although I am a bit overweight, can exercise help reduce this? Thank you for your response.

Dr. Yang Jinfa reply Breast and Thyroid
1. Gynecomastia in adolescent males peaks at ages 13 to 14 and typically decreases after age 17, usually resolving naturally one to two years later. 2. Human adipose tissue contains an enzyme that converts male hormones into female hormones, which is why obese men have a higher...

How to Address Gynecomastia in Young Men: A Guide for Jack

Dear Doctor, I am a 24-year-old male, and I have been troubled by a condition since the fifth or sixth grade where my chest appears somewhat protruded, which I believe is what is referred to as gynecomastia. I would like to know if there are any ways to make my chest look like t...

Dr. Zeng Fenyu reply Internal Medicine
Please visit the endocrinology outpatient clinic to investigate the causes of gynecomastia, so that treatment can be targeted at the underlying cause. If no specific etiology is found and the gynecomastia is indeed severe, cosmetic surgery may be considered; however, it is essent...

Understanding Gynecomastia in Teen Boys: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions

This year, I am in the ninth grade, weighing 78 kg and standing 168 cm tall. I didn't pay much attention to my weight before, but recently, I noticed that my chest has been getting larger, probably since the first year of junior high. Is this gynecomastia during puberty? Wil...

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery
Gynecomastia in adolescent males may resolve after puberty. Male puberty typically lasts until around the age of 20. If surgery is necessary, it is advisable to wait until adulthood. If possible, it is better to undergo an evaluation first.

Can Medication Help Treat Gynecomastia in Young Men?

An 18-year-old male has been consuming fried foods since the ages of 11 and 12. By middle school, he noticed that his chest started to gradually enlarge, and this has continued to the present. He visited a doctor yesterday, who ordered blood tests to check hormone levels, with re...

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid
Dear Rock: Hello, in cases of gynecomastia in males, some may experience a reduction in size while others may not. It is recommended to control diet by reducing fried foods and animal fats, avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke, and limiting caffeine-containing foods or substance...