Gynecomastia: When men develop breasts
Female-looking breasts in men are a sensitive issue for many people. It often becomes a reason for shame, withdrawal or even psychological stress. However, gynecomastia is a widespread phenomenon – and in many cases can be explained medically, is easily treatable and, above all, is no reason to despair.
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia refers to enlarged mammary glands in men, usually on both sides, sometimes also on one side. It often feels soft, glandular or sensitive to pressure – in contrast to so-called pseudogynecomastia, which is pure fatty tissue (e.g. due to obesity).
Both can look very similar – but the causes, treatment and medical relevance differ significantly.
Possible causes of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is not a disease, but a symptom – and can have many triggers. These include
Hormonal changes
- Puberty: temporary breast development occurs in up to 70% of cases
- Age: testosterone decreases with increasing age - the ratio to oestrogen shifts
- Diseases: Tumors, liver cirrhosis, thyroid disease or genetic disorders
Medication
- Heart medication (e.g. spironolactone)
- Psychotropic drugs
- Anabolic steroids or hormone preparations
- Cannabis, alcohol or drugs
Overweight
- Fatty tissue produces oestrogen - this can lead to pseudogynaecomastia or a real increase in glands if you are very overweight.
Diagnosis: When should you see a doctor?
- When did the change occur?
- Is it unilateral or bilateral?
- Is there pain, a feeling of tension or fluid leakage?
- Are you taking medication?
- Are there any other hormonal symptoms (e.g. loss of libido, mood swings)?
A physical examination, ultrasound and, if necessary, blood tests can be used to determine whether the problem is genuine gynecomastia or fat deposits – and whether further investigations are necessary.
Treatment options
1. wait & watch
During puberty or after medication, breast augmentation can disappear of its own accord.
2. drug therapy
In rare cases – such as hormonal disorders – drug treatment with anti-oestrogens may be useful.
3. surgical intervention
If the gynecomastia is permanent, physically or psychologically distressing, surgical removal of the glandular tissue may be considered. This is often combined with liposuction in order to achieve an even result.
The operation is usually performed on an outpatient basis or with a short hospital stay. The scars are usually small and well hidden.
Psychological effects: More than a cosmetic problem
For many men, visible breasts are a difficult issue. Shame when changing clothes, avoiding sport or intimacy, body avoidance – all of these can severely affect quality of life. Young men in particular often suffer especially because their self-image and sense of masculinity are very sensitive at this stage.
Important: gynecomastia is not a “weakness” and nothing to be ashamed of. Dealing with it openly – whether by talking to specialists or to yourself – can be the first step towards a new body image.
Gynecomastia & body image: between reality and expectation
The constant visibility of idealized male bodies – on social media or in advertising – influences how men perceive themselves. Gynecomastia often seems like a disruptive factor in the “image”. But bodies are different. And even if surgery can help to improve self-image, it should not be seen as a quick fix, but as a well-considered decision.
Tip: If you are also struggling with other uncertainties, such as penis size, you should not act too hastily – instead, get objective information. For example, on topics such as penis enlargement in order to understand the possibilities and limitations.
Conclusion: Gynecomastia is treatable - and no reason to be ashamed
Gynecomastia affects many men – and is usually medically explainable and easily treatable. The first step is always to clarify the cause. Whether an operation is ultimately necessary or not, the most important thing is to take yourself seriously – without shame, without taboos.
This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. It is in no way a substitute for a professional examination or treatment by a licensed physician. If you have any health complaints or uncertainties, please always consult a medical professional – especially if you have any questions about intimate surgery or sexual health.
