Why Do Men Develop Enlarged Breasts? Causes and Solutions

Enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia) can feel uncomfortable and affect your confidence, but understanding why it happens can make a big difference. Whether you’ve noticed changes recently or have been dealing with them for a while, learning about the causes and solutions can help you take control and feel more comfortable in your skin.

If you are considering male breast reduction, Orange County Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington Beach offers personalized solutions to help you achieve a flatter, more masculine chest. Led by board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Anthony Miller, the practice combines surgical expertise with a compassionate approach to deliver stunning, natural-looking results.

Causes of Enlarged Male Breasts

Hormonal Imbalance: The main reason gynecomastia occurs is an imbalance between the hormones estrogen and testosterone. Breast tissue can develop when estrogen is too high, or testosterone is too low.

Age-Related Changes: As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline. This reduction can lead to an increase in estrogen levels, resulting in breast tissue growth. This is particularly common in older adults.

Weight Gain and Fat Accumulation: Sometimes, what appears to be gynecomastia is pseudogynecomastia, excess fat accumulation in the chest area due to weight gain. This condition does not involve glandular tissue and is purely related to fat distribution.

Medications and Substance Use: Certain medications can cause breast tissue enlargement as a side effect. Additionally, alcohol, marijuana, and other substances can disrupt hormone levels, contributing to gynecomastia.

Health Conditions: Certain health issues like liver or kidney disease, thyroid problems, or tumors can also trigger hormonal changes, leading to gynecomastia.

Effective Solutions for Enlarged Male Breasts

Lifestyle Changes: If weight gain is the cause, adopting a healthier diet and incorporating regular exercise can help reduce chest fat. Focus on strength training and cardio exercises to boost metabolism and build muscle mass.

Medical Treatments: If medications are the cause, consulting a healthcare provider to adjust prescriptions may resolve the issue. Hormone therapy might be recommended for men with significant hormonal imbalances.

Surgical Intervention: For men with persistent gynecomastia that doesn’t respond to lifestyle changes, gynecomastia surgery may be necessary to remove excess fat and glandular tissue, resulting in a flatter, more contoured chest.

Get a More Masculine Chest with Gynecomastia Surgery in Huntington Beach, CA

Enlarged male breasts can impact self-confidence and quality of life. Knowing the root causes is the first step toward making informed treatment decisions. If you have gynecomastia, call us at 714-379-9777 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller.