Enlarged breasts in males is common but can cause damage to self-esteem.
Enlarged breasts in males, gynecomastia, is a condition linked to hormonal imbalance. Boys and men may feel intense shame and social embarrassment because of their chest size. Gynecomastia may be symptomatic of an underlying disease. Certain prescription medicines, street drugs and even natural plant compounds containing phytoestrogens--found in soy, lavender and tea tree oils--can promote atypical breast development in males. Liposuction or surgery can successfully reduce excess breast tissue.
When Is Enlargement of Breasts in Males Normal?
Gynecomastia in males is common during developmental milestones. A baby boy is born with swollen breasts due to exposure to maternal hormones. According to Ohio State University Medical Center, "About 65 percent of 14-year-old boys have gynecomastia ... and about 90 percent [of them] will have natural regression of the breast tissue." If the condition persists beyond puberty, a physician should be consulted. Testosterone levels decline in men past the age of 50 and may cause large breasts.
Causes of Atypical Breast Enlargement in Men
Abuse of alcohol, steroids or drugs--such as marijuana and heroin--can impair testosterone production or synthesis and affect breast growth. The Physicians Desk Reference lists gynecomastia as a possible side effect of many prescription medicines, including Zantac and Xanax. Diseases of the testis, pituitary and liver may cause breast enlargement, as well. According to Dr. Jorge Martinez, "Gynecomastia has also been linked to tea tree oil and lavender oil. Phytoestrogens, a component of soy products, have estrogen-like properties, and in large amounts they can lead to gynecomastia."
Psychological Ramifications
Guys with large breasts try to avoid public scrutiny.
Boys or men with enlarged breasts may withdraw socially because of poor body image. They may be taunted or bullied for having female-like breasts or "man-boobs." They may dread sexual contact due to fears of rejection. Some boys may try to camouflage their condition by hunching over or wearing baggy clothing. They may avoid swimming, showering or participating in any activity that requires them to remove their shirts in public.
Consult a Physician or Surgeon
Any man concerned about the size of his breasts should consult an internist or an endocrinologist to rule out underlying medical conditions. If surgery is an option, the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons can provide the name of a board-certified surgeon. Following the surgeon's medical advice regarding surgery and recovery is the best chance for a healthy outcome. Medical insurance does not typically cover liposuction, mammaplasty, or laproscopic surgery for breast reduction purposes.
Minimizing Your Risk of Developing Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is one of the side effects of some prescription medicines.
Keep your weight within a normal range. Excess body fat is linked to high levels of estrogen and can lead to enlargement of breasts in males. Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs. Do not use steroids. Read the safety fact sheet that comes with your prescription medicines for possible side effects. Limit your consumption of soy products, essential oils, or other products containing phytoestrogens--which may alter breast tissue in men. Drugs for male pattern baldness, such as Propecia, should be avoided.
Tags: prescription medicines, breast tissue, breasts males, Enlarged breasts, Enlarged breasts males, large breasts, males common
