Being a teenager is not always easy. It can be difficult for young men to deal with bodily changes that occur due to puberty, as well as the dynamics of establishing an identity and trying to fit in. For teens who are experiencing gynecomastia, this feat can be even more challenging, and enlarged breasts can generate feelings of self-consciousness. If you believe that your teen is suffering from this condition, know that he is not alone. Esteemed surgeon Dr. Breitbart has experience helping many patients understand the condition while providing excellent surgical care. A customized gynecomastia procedure may be right for your teen. Ahead, learn more about teenage gynecomastia causes and treatment options.
Gynecomastia Causes
Puberty: In young people, puberty is one of the main causes of gynecomastia. The hormones that are involved in puberty can sometimes become unbalanced, triggering the enlargement of breast tissue in boys.
Certain medications: There are certain medications and substances that are associated with gynecomastia. This includes alcohol, marijuana, amphetamines, and steroids. Additionally, the use of certain herbal supplements can lead to the condition.
Underlying conditions: In some cases, the development of gynecomastia can indicate the presence of other medical issues.
It is important to note that gynecomastia can develop in one or both breasts. Pseudogynecomastia can also develop in teens and be confused with gynecomastia. It is the result of excess fat in the male breast area. It is often found in patients that are overweight and can lead to the same self-image issues as gynecomastia. It is difficult for many patients to know if their enlarged breasts are due to gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia. However, Dr. Breitbart will be able to determine the cause.
Treatment
The cause of the gynecomastia determines the treatment option, which may include:
Waiting: Gynecomastia in young men often goes away on its own, although it can take a few years to do so. Because of this, Dr. Breitbart may decide that taking time to observe the condition may be what is best for the patient. However, our surgeon is also aware of the psychological effect that having enlarged breasts as a male teen can have, which is why he takes this into consideration when deciding whether to recommend surgery.
Surgery: Gynecomastia surgery is an option to improve the appearance of the chest. Dr. Breitbart will use a customized approach to provide the patient with the results they desire. The excision technique is ideal for the removal of glandular breast tissue or excess skin. It can also help with reducing the areola or repositioning the nipple to provide a natural-looking result. Liposuction is another technique that may be recommended in cases where gynecomastia results from fatty breast tissue.
Schedule Your Appointment with Dr. Breitbart
To learn more about treatment options for teens with gynecomastia, meet with Dr. Breitbart, a compassionate and highly experienced gynecomastia surgeon. Request a consultation online or simply call our office to get started.
