Gynecomastia: What’s Age Got to do With It?

According to statistics, millions of men live with the bulging, puffy symptoms of gynecomastia. This is actually a broad detail about the issue we unkindly refer to as “man boobs.” When we look deeper, we can see that gynecomastia affects males of all ages, from the pubescent boy to the middle-aged man. Because so many men are struggling to feel at home in their body, it is crucial that we discuss what age has to do with gynecomastia and what we can do about this problem.

Gynecomastia in Teens

A National Institutes of Health (NIH) report stated that 50% to 60% of teen boys develop some extent of gynecomastia. This may range from puffy nipples to excess glandular and fatty tissue. Usually, gynecomastia in teen boys is believed to stem from the wild hormone fluctuations during this decade of life. The correlation between hormone variance and excess breast tissue can be promising because many boys lose this tissue once their hormones regulate. While medical treatment may not be necessary for teen gynecomastia, boys do need appropriate physical and emotional support from loved ones. Parents may talk with their pediatrician about ways to help their teen traverse a tough developmental period in light of breast enlargement. Tip: a boy may feel more confident wearing a compression garment under his clothes.

Gynecomastia in Adulthood

The NIH report that discussed gynecomastia in teens also revealed that approximately 65% of men have some degree of enlargement in their breasts. Like teens, an adult man may have puffy nipples, or he may have fullness that resembles female breasts. In addition to the effects of hormones, men have additional contributing factors to gynecomastia. These include alcohol and drug use and a dysregulated thyroid gland.

Treating Gynecomastia

It is possible to refine the chest contours with male breast reduction surgery. In our Miami office, we provide the full extent of care a man needs while supporting his emotional wellness. Gynecomastia is a condition for which we customize a treatment protocol to achieve the best results. Treatment may involve liposuction to extract fatty tissue, or it may remove the breast glands that cause puffiness. Skin tightening may also be included in some cases.

Schedule a Consultation

Do you or someone you love need more information about male breast reduction? Schedule a consultation with us at 305-279-4700.