Bodybuilder Gynecomastia | Chicago, Illinois

What is Bodybuilder Gynecomastia?

"Dr. Adajar did a great job removing gynecomastia from my previous years in bodybuilding. Everything healed quickly and I was back in the gym after 2 weeks. 10/10 look no further if you want your gyno removed."

Bodybuilder gynecomastia, also known as "man boobs," is a medical condition that causes the enlargement of breast tissue in men. While it can occur naturally, gynecomastia in bodybuilders is often caused by an excessive amount of estrogen or prolactin due to the misuse of anabolic steroids, such as testosterone or its derivatives. The enzyme aromatase facilitates the bioconversion of testosterone into estrogen, which can disturb the balance of hormones in the body and cause an increase in the level of estrogen. This can lead to the development of bodybuilder gynecomastia.

You don't have to live with hiding your chest. Get your confidence back and meet with some of the best gynecomastia surgeons who specialize in bodybuilder gynecomastia in Chicago, Illinois for a consultation today. Virtual consultations are available.

Bodybuilder Gynecomastia | Chicago, Illinois

What is Bodybuilder Gynecomastia?

"Dr. Adajar did a great job removing gynecomastia from my previous years in bodybuilding. Everything healed quickly and I was back in the gym after 2 weeks. 10/10 look no further if you want your gyno removed."

Bodybuilder gynecomastia, also known as "man boobs," is a medical condition that causes the enlargement of breast tissue in men. While it can occur naturally, gynecomastia in bodybuilders is often caused by an excessive amount of estrogen or prolactin due to the misuse of anabolic steroids, such as testosterone or its derivatives. The enzyme aromatase facilitates the bioconversion of testosterone into estrogen, which can disturb the balance of hormones in the body and cause an increase in the level of estrogen. This can lead to the development of bodybuilder gynecomastia.

You don't have to live with hiding your chest. Get your confidence back and meet with some of the best gynecomastia surgeons who specialize in bodybuilder gynecomastia in Chicago, Illinois for a consultation today. Virtual consultations are available.

How can bodybuilders can prevent gynecomastia?

The best way to prevent gynecomastia is to avoid the inappropriate use of anabolic steroids. Bodybuilders can opt for testosterone replacement therapy to manage hormone levels under the supervision of a medical professional. This helps to prevent the onset of gynecomastia, which can be monitored through routine laboratory testing.

Another way to prevent gynecomastia is by using medications such as an aromatase inhibitor to regulate estrogen levels. An aromatase inhibitor inhibits the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing gynecomastia.

Bodybuilders can balance their estrogen and testosterone levels naturally through diet and lifestyle choices. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale and cabbage are known to decrease estrogen conversion from testosterone, while foods such as sesame seeds, dried fruits, yams, tofu, and turmeric should be avoided as they increase estrogen levels. Bodybuilders can also raise their testosterone levels naturally through exercise and building lean muscle, particularly in the legs, getting plenty of sleep, minimizing stress, and taking certain vitamin supplements such as vitamin D and Magnesium.

severe bodybuilder gyno from steroids
bodybuilder gynecomastia before after

How to treat bodybuilder gynecomastia

Treatment for bodybuilder gynecomastia should be initiated as early as possible before it becomes permanent. Medications such as an aromatase inhibitor or estrogen receptor blockers can be successful at reversing gynecomastia. Decreasing the dose or eliminating testosterone replacement therapy is also an option as less testosterone will be available to be converted into estrogen.

However, if the gynecomastia persists for approximately one year or more, fibrosis and scar tissue will develop, making the gynecomastia irreversible. In such cases, surgical excision such as ChestSculpt™ male breast reduction surgery of the extra glandular tissue in the male chest area by an experienced gynecomastia surgeon Dr. Marc Adajar or Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong is required.

Are there supplements to help reduce bodybuilder gynecomastia?

Yes, some dietary supplements may help to reduce the symptoms of gynecomastia in bodybuilders:

  • DIM (Diindolylmethane): DIM is an extract from cruciferous vegetables that has been shown to reduce the effects of estrogen in the body.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce the swelling associated with gynecomastia.
  • Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that helps to balance hormones in the body, which can help to reduce the symptoms of gynecomastia.
  • Magnesium: Magnesium helps to relax muscles, which can help to reduce the tension and pain associated with gynecomastia.
bodybuilder gynecomastia surgery before and after by Dr. Marc Adajar XSCULPT

How soon can I get back to work?

After surgery, a compression vest is worn for several weeks to limit swelling associated with surgery, protect the surgical area, and to keep pressure on the newly placed nipples. The drains (if used) are removed within 7 days. No exercise is recommended for the first several weeks to prevent any sutures from breaking and to allow the nipples to heal properly. After several weeks once the incisions and nipples have healed, the dressings on the nipples and incisions are removed. The compression vest can be stopped at this point and replaced with a compression shirt for a couple of weeks as extra support during the final phases of healing. After 6-8 weeks after surgery, exercise can be resumed. Restrictions are minimal after 2 months after surgery.

It can take several months to reach the final result as the skin, nipples, and incisions completely heal from the surgery. However, the improved appearance of the chest is immediately seen. Instead of prominent female-appearing breasts, the patient will have thin lines at the bottom of the chest underneath the pectoral muscles. The nipples will be smaller and sit on a flat surface.  Tighter, form-fitting clothes can be proudly worn and self-confidence regained.

how long will it take to see my results?

Results will vary from patient to patient. Swelling and bruising is common in the beginning, but usually goes away after a couple of weeks.

As the healing process continues, you will see a flatter, more defined chest. The healing process does take time and the final result will likely be most appreciated 2 to 3 months after surgery.

*Combined with a program of a healthy diet with exercise, many patients may continue to see positive results 6 to 12 months after surgery.

bodybuilder gynecomastia treatment at XSCULPT
bodybuilder gynecomastia causes and treatment at XSCULPT

*Actual patient diagnosed with Grade 4 bodybuilder gynecomastia underwent ChestSculpt™ surgery by Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong. Results will vary from patient to patient.

Bodybuilder gynecomastia Before & After Gallery

See our extensive before and after gallery of male breast reduction patients by top gynecomastia surgeons.