Gynecomastia can stem from a variety of factors, including medical conditions, medications, and substance use. However, at the core of many cases lies hormonal imbalance.

Fluctuations in testosterone and estrogen levels can upset the body’s balance, resulting in male breast development. Recognizing this fundamental principle and the factors that contribute to it is crucial in effectively managing gynecomastia.

At the Tampa Gynecomastia Center, we are here to help get you going in the right direction. Schedule a consultation today to meet with our doctors.

What Causes Gyno?

Gynecomastia arises from an imbalance of estrogen and testosterone, whether it involves an excess of estrogen, a deficiency of testosterone, or a blend of both. When considering methods to alleviate gynecomastia, understanding this imbalance is crucial.

The primary indication of gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue, often triggered by this hormonal imbalance.

Moreover, it’s essential to acknowledge that in numerous cases, the root causes of gynecomastia remain unidentified. In such scenarios, hormonal imbalance may not serve as the primary catalyst.

Be aware that man boobs can also be caused by excess adipose (fatty) tissue in the breast. This can be a standalone issue (pseudogynecomastia), or it can frequently be an issue in combination with excess breast gland tissue. If excess fat accumulation is the sole issue in your chest area, true gynecomastia causes may not be the primary culprit.

Male infants might experience transient gynecomastia due to residual estrogen passed from their mothers during pregnancy. Typically, this condition resolves over time.

During puberty, hormonal fluctuations can trigger temporary gynecomastia. Fortunately, this issue typically resolves within a span of six months to two years as the body adjusts to hormonal changes.

Abuse of substances such as alcohol, methamphetamine, marijuana, heroin, and methadone.

Various medications, including but not limited to anti-androgens, HIV treatments, anabolic steroids, anti-anxiety and anti-psychotic medications, chemotherapy drugs, ulcer medications, heart medications, and specific antibiotics.

As men age, there’s a gradual decline in testosterone levels, which is a common occurrence, particularly after the age of 50.

While steroids can elevate testosterone levels, the body might react by converting surplus testosterone into estrogen.

High body fat percentage can result in heightened fat accumulation in the chest area and elevated estrogen levels.

Various health conditions can contribute to or worsen gynecomastia. These include hypogonadism, aging, specific cancers, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver failure, cirrhosis, and malnutrition or starvation.

Infancy and Puberty

Infant boys and adolescents entering puberty may experience transient gynecomastia.

In infants, this is attributed to residual maternal estrogen and typically resolves within a few months. For adolescents, hormonal fluctuations during puberty lead to the condition, which generally resolves within 6 months to 2 years.

Gynecomastia is common in adolescent boys. As many as 60% of adolescents will have some signs of gyno by the age of 14, largely due to the hormonal changes we all undergo during puberty.

This represents a typical phase of puberty, and the symptoms typically subside within a span of two years. However, in some instances, the symptoms of gynecomastia may persist, necessitating surgical intervention to address the issue.

Substance Abuse & Alcoholism

The excessive use of certain substances can lead to cases of gynecomastia. Such substances include heroin, methadone, marijuana, methamphetamine, and other members of the amphetamine family.

Alcoholism represents another form of substance abuse, one that is notably more widespread than illegal drug abuse.

Beer, in particular, plays a significant role in this context due to its high content of phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds known for their estrogen-mimicking effects.

While not conclusively proven, some scientists speculate that excessive intake of phytoestrogens may result in effects akin to those induced by elevated levels of true estrogen.

Aging

As men age, there’s a gradual decline in testosterone levels, a process that typically initiates around the age of 30 and persists throughout life.

Individuals over the age of 50 are especially susceptible to developing gynecomastia. It’s estimated that up to 65% of men in this age bracket may develop senior gyno.

Anabolic Steroids

Gynecomastia is commonly seen in professional bodybuilders for a common reason: the use of anabolic steroids.

These steroids encourage testosterone production, which in turn may lead the body to convert excess testosterone into estrogen. This can lead to bodybuilder gynecomastia in many cases.

High Body Fat Percentage


Elevated body fat contributes to higher incidences of gynecomastia through two primary mechanisms: increased fat accumulation in the chest area and elevated estrogen levels, which enhance the likelihood of breast gland tissue development.

Moreover, heightened levels of fat also precipitate a decrease in testosterone and an elevation in estrogen levels. This is facilitated by an enzyme called aromatase, responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen.

The majority of this conversion occurs within fat tissue, accounting for approximately 85% of the process. Consequently, the greater the amount of fat tissue present, the more pronounced the elevation in estrogen levels may become.

Hypogonadism


Hypogonadism refers to a condition characterized by insufficient levels of androgens, the male hormones.

This deficiency can stem from various causes, including damage to the testes due to factors such as radiation exposure, mechanical injury, or pathological conditions. Alternatively, it may result from impairment of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.

Chronic Diseases


Disorders affecting the liver and kidneys, along with hyperthyroidism, have the potential to disrupt hormonal equilibrium, resulting in elevated estrogen levels and diminished androgens.

Additionally, hyperthyroidism can induce an upsurge in androgen levels, which paradoxically triggers a concurrent rise in estrogen. This occurs as the excess androgens undergo conversion by the body.

Prescription Medications

Many cases of gynecomastia can be attributed to the use of prescription medications. These include:

  • Ulcer medications
  • HIV medications
  • Antipsychotics
  • Antidepressants
  • Certain heart disease medications
  • Antiandrogens
  • Hypertension medications

Consult with your doctor to determine whether the medications you are taking could potentially decrease testosterone levels or elevate estrogen production. If such effects are possible, it’s important to note that this isn’t necessarily a reason to discontinue your medication. Rather, being informed allows you to take appropriate measures to manage any potential hormonal changes.

Contact a Tampa Gynecomastia Specialist

Whether you are in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, or any surrounding area, feel free to schedule an appointment at the Tampa Gynecomastia Center and let us help you achieve your ideal results.

Our compassionate team is here to provide personalized care and effective solutions tailored to your needs. Schedule your consultation with a Tampa gyno surgeon and take the first step towards addressing your gynecomastia.

At the Tampa Gynecomastia Center, we prioritize delivering exceptional care from your initial consultation to your recovery and beyond. We deeply value the trust you place in us and are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care. Our team, led by board-certified gynecomastia plastic surgeon specialists, is devoted to achieving optimal outcomes for each individual. Recognizing that every person is unique, we personalize our approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule your in-person or virtual consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact the Tampa Gynecomastia Center today. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Tampa Gynecomastia Center
100 N Ashley Dr #50K
Tampa, Florida 33602
(203) 441-1113