Bodybuilder Gynecomastia: What Causes It and How to Fix It
If you’re a bodybuilder and have noticed swelling or puffiness in your chest, you’re not alone. Gynecomastia—or “gyno”—is a common side effect of steroid or prohormone use, especially testosterone or its derivatives.
Why Steroids Cause Gynecomastia
Bodybuilder gynecomastia is most often caused by an excessive amount of estrogen or prolactin as a result of inappropriate anabolic steroid use, most commonly testosterone or its derivatives. When high levels of testosterone hormones are injected, the enzyme aromatase converts a portion of that testosterone into estrogen. Aromatase converts testosterone into estrogen, causing gynecomastia and breast enlargement or breast growth in male bodybuilders.
Certain steroids are known to increase prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that can also cause gynecomastia in men independently of estrogen. Gyno steroids can cause breast enlargement in some men. Breast growth can be influenced by various factors such as hormone levels, health conditions, weight gain, and muscle growth.
Before After Photo of Bodybuilder with Grade IV Gynecomastia
One of our patients at XSculpt came in with Grade 4 gynecomastia after years of steroid use. His chest showed significant swelling and breast tissue growth that wouldn’t go away—even after he stopped using. After our patient was evaluated for hormone imbalance as part of his evaluation, Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, Chicago gynecomastia specialists, performed our signature ChestSculpt™ procedure. One month after surgery, his chest was flatter, tighter, and masculine again.
How Can Bodybuilders Get Rid of Gynecomastia?
Once bodybuilder gynecomastia appears, it is very important to try to get it treated by a medical professional before it becomes permanent. Here are some options to help reduce or even reverse bodybuilder gynecomastia:
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Medications like aromatase inhibitors or estrogen blockers can help reverse early-stage gynecomastia. They’re most effective when started right away.
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Adjusting or stopping testosterone or steroid use can also help, since excess testosterone often gets converted to estrogen.
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Testosterone therapy should only be done under a doctor’s supervision, with regular lab monitoring and possible use of medications to block estrogen conversion.
At XSculpt, we include comprehensive hormone testing and analysis as part of the evaluation process for all ChestSculpt® patients. This ensures your treatment plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your body’s needs.
Reducing or stopping steroid use early can also help—but timing is critical. If the condition sticks around for over a year, scar tissue can form. If the gynecomastia persists for approximately one year or more, fibrosis and scar tissue will develop and the gynecomastia will become irreversible and will require surgical excision of the extra glandular tissue in the male chest area by an experienced surgeon.
Are There Natural Ways to Get Rid of Bodybuilder Gynecomastia Without Surgery?
There are ways to balance your estrogen and testosterone levels naturally through diet and lifestyle choices. For example, cruciferous vegetables keep estrogen levels low by decreasing its conversion from testosterone. Staying away from foods that increase estrogen levels, such as sesame seeds, dried fruits, yams, tofu, and turmeric, can also help.
Lower Estrogen Naturally:
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Eat cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, kale)
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Avoid estrogenic foods like soy, sesame seeds, and tofu
Raise Testosterone Naturally:
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Sleep 7–9 hours
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Strength train (especially leg workouts)
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Reduce stress
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Supplement with Vitamin D and Magnesium
Your diet and lifestyle can help reduce the appearance of “man boobs” or pseudo-gynecomastia, but it won’t shrink true bodybuilder gynecomastia. These methods may only help prevent or manage mild hormone imbalance. If you have true gynecomastia, ChestSculpt surgery is the only treatment that will permanently get rid of enlarged breast tissue in the male chest.
The Only Permanent Fix: ChestSculpt®
Once the gland is there, surgery is the only way to get rid of it for good. Our signature ChestSculpt® procedure is designed specifically for men like you—fit, muscular, and looking to restore their confidence.
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Local anesthesia or twilight sedation
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No drains
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Minimal downtime
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High-definition contouring
Whether you’re prepping for your next competition or just want to feel good shirtless again, this is your best option.
When Can You Compete Again?
Many bodybuilders are concerned about when they will be able to resume competing professionally again after gyno surgery. Most guys return to work within a few days. Light gym activity can usually start after 2 weeks. You’ll need to wait about 4–6 weeks before heavy lifting or chest workouts. Depending upon the extent of the surgery, the speed of recovery, and the intensity of the training following your surgery – your surgeon can guide how soon you can resume physical exercise and provide detailed recovery instructions.
How Much Does Bodybuilder Gyno Surgery Cost?
The cost of your gynecomastia surgery will depend upon the size of the breast gland, the amount of surrounding breast fat, the medical condition of the patient, your surgeon’s experience, location, and other various factors that the surgeon will have to consider to offer the best possible surgical result.
Check out our gynecomastia pricing here. Financing options are available to help you get treated without delay.
Start Your Free Virtual Evaluation Today
For an accurate diagnosis, get evaluated by trained, board-certified surgeons who specialize in bodybuilder gynecomastia, understand muscle anatomy, steroid use, and how to preserve your male physique. Start your free virtual evaluation with Dr. Marc Adajar & Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, to discuss the best treatment options for you.
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FAQ About Bodybuilder Gynecomastia
- What is gynecomastia in bodybuilders?
- Gynecomastia in bodybuilders refers to the development of excess breast tissue in men who engage in bodybuilding activities. It can result from hormonal imbalances, including elevated estrogen levels relative to testosterone.
- Why do some bodybuilders develop gynecomastia?
- Gynecomastia in bodybuilders can occur due to several factors, including the use of anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs, hormonal fluctuations during bulking or cutting cycles, or genetic predisposition.
- How common is gynecomastia among bodybuilders?
- Gynecomastia is relatively common among bodybuilders, especially those who use anabolic steroids or other substances that can disrupt hormone levels.
- What are the signs and symptoms of gynecomastia in bodybuilders?
- Symptoms of gynecomastia in bodybuilders may include the development of firm, rubbery tissue beneath the nipples, breast tenderness or sensitivity, and changes in breast size or shape.
- Can steroid use cause gynecomastia in bodybuilders?
- Yes, the use of anabolic steroids, which bodybuilders commonly use to enhance muscle growth and performance, can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to the development of gynecomastia.
- How can gynecomastia in bodybuilders be treated?
- Treatment options for gynecomastia in bodybuilders may include lifestyle modifications, such as discontinuing steroid use, as well as surgical intervention, such as liposuction or mastectomy, to remove excess breast tissue.
- Is it possible to treat gynecomastia while on a steroid cycle?
- While it is possible to address gynecomastia while on a steroid cycle, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations, treatment options may vary depending on individual circumstances.
- What is the impact of gynecomastia on bodybuilding performance?
- Gynecomastia can have both physical and psychological effects on bodybuilders, including decreased self-confidence, discomfort or pain, and potential limitations on certain exercises or movements.
- Are there preventative measures bodybuilders can take to reduce the risk of gynecomastia?
- Bodybuilders can reduce the risk of gynecomastia by avoiding the use of anabolic steroids or other substances that can disrupt hormone levels, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and consulting with healthcare professionals for guidance on safe and effective supplementation.
- Can bodybuilders continue training with gynecomastia?
- In most cases, bodybuilders can continue training with gynecomastia, but they may need to make modifications to their routines to accommodate any discomfort or limitations. Additionally, treating gynecomastia may help improve comfort and confidence during training.
