Gynecomastia in Adolescent Boys

Gynecomastia in Adolescents: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is Gynecomastia in Adolescents?

Gynecomastia in adolescents is the enlargement of breast tissue in boys during puberty. This usually occurs between the ages of 12 and 18 and is caused by an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and testosterone. Fortunately, this condition is temporary and the breast tissue should return to a normal size after a few months or years.

Causes of Gynecomastia in Adolescents

There are several causes of gynecomastia in adolescents, including:

Hormonal changes: During puberty, hormonal imbalances can cause breast tissue to grow. This is because the male body produces more estrogen than usual, which leads to the growth of breast tissue.

Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat depression, can cause gynecomastia in adolescents. These medications can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, leading to the growth of breast tissue.

Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as liver disease and thyroid problems, can cause gynecomastia in adolescents. These conditions can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance, leading to the growth of breast tissue.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia in Adolescents

The most common symptom of gynecomastia in adolescents is the enlargement of breast tissue. The breast tissue can be tender and sensitive to touch. In some cases, there may be discharge from the nipples. Gynecomastia can also cause psychological distress, leading to anxiety and depression.

Diagnosing Teen Gynecomastia

The diagnosis of gynecomastia in adolescents begins with a physical examination by a doctor. The doctor will check the breast tissue for any lumps or abnormalities. The doctor will also ask about any medications or medical conditions that may be causing the gynecomastia.

In some cases, further testing may be needed, such as blood tests or imaging tests, to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Can Teen Gynecomastia be Prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent gynecomastia in adolescents, but maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding the use of steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs can help reduce the risk.

Treating Teen Gynecomastia

The treatment of gynecomastia in adolescents depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, gynecomastia in adolescents resolves on its own within a few months to a few years. However, if the condition is causing psychological distress or is not resolving on its own, treatment may be needed.

Medications: In some cases, medications may be used to treat gynecomastia in adolescents. These medications can help to balance the levels of estrogen and testosterone in the body, reducing the growth of breast tissue.

Surgery: In severe cases of gynecomastia in adolescents, surgery may be needed to remove the breast tissue. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and involves making an incision around the nipple to remove the breast tissue.

Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and a healthy diet, can help to reduce the growth of breast tissue in adolescents. It is important to maintain a healthy weight and avoid using steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs.

Gynecomastia in teenage boys is a common condition and is a treatable condition. While the condition is not usually serious, it can cause emotional and psychological stress. You have the option to seek medical advice from a doctor who specializes in this condition if the gynecomastia is causing discomfort or is not resolving on its own.

Our gynecomastia surgeons specialize in gynecomastia treatment and male body contouring. For more information or to schedule a complimentary gynecomastia surgery consultation please contact us at 833-XSCULPT or 833-972-8578

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