Table of Contents
- Why Understanding the Cause of Gynecomastia Matters
- Common Causes of Gynecomastia
- What Should You Do If You Have Gynecomastia?
- FAQs – Causes of Gynecomastia
Why Understanding the Cause of Gynecomastia Matters
Gynecomastia affects 1 in 3 Indian men. But not all chest enlargement is the same. Some cases are glandular, others are fat (pseudo gynecomastia), and many are a mix of both.
Identifying the root cause is essential for correct treatment—whether it’s gland removal, liposuction, or a combination of both.
Common Causes of Gynecomastia in Men
i. Hormonal Imbalance
- Low testosterone or high estrogen
- Common during puberty, aging, or conditions like Klinefelter syndrome
- May resolve on its own in teens but persists in adults
FAQ: Can hormones cause gynecomastia?
Yes, especially when estrogen dominates over testosterone.
ii. Pseudo Gynecomastia (Chest Fat)
- Caused by excess fat, not gland tissue
- Feels soft and spreadable
- Common in overweight or post-weight-loss men
- Best treated with liposuction if fat is stubborn or sagging
FAQ: Can I reduce chest fat with exercise?
Yes, exercise helps reduce overall fat, but liposuction may be needed for resistant fat.
iii. Medications & Supplements
- Use of steroids or testosterone boosters
- Certain antidepressants or ulcer medications
- Herbal oils like tea tree and lavender
iv. Medical Conditions
- Liver disease or kidney failure
- Thyroid disorders
- Hormone-secreting tumors
v. Lifestyle Factors
- Alcohol and marijuana use
- Obesity or extreme crash dieting
- Environmental exposure to chemicals (plastics, cosmetics)
vi. Idiopathic Gynecomastia
- Cause unknown
- Often found in healthy adults without clear medical history
- Can be treated effectively with cosmetic surgery
What Should You Do If You Have Gynecomastia?
If you suspect gynecomastia, consult an experienced surgeon. At Allure Medspa, Dr. Milan Doshi provides:
- Hormonal evaluation
- Physical exam with chest ultrasound
- A personalized treatment plan based on your grade and chest anatomy
FAQs – Causes of Gynecomastia
Q1. Can hormones cause gynecomastia?
Ans. Yes, when estrogen levels are higher than testosterone, breast gland tissue enlarges.
Q2. Can gynecomastia be just chest fat?
Ans. Yes, that’s called pseudo gynecomastia. It’s due to fat, not gland, and usually needs liposuction.
Q3. Can medications or supplements trigger gynecomastia?
Ans. Yes, anabolic steroids, antidepressants, ulcer medicines, and even herbal oils like lavender may cause it.
Q4. Does lifestyle affect gynecomastia?
Ans. Yes. Alcohol, obesity, marijuana, and chemical exposures all increase risk.
Q5. What if no cause is found?
Ans. This is called idiopathic gynecomastia. It’s still treatable with surgery.
