Gynecomastia, while often temporary and harmless, can be a concerning condition for teenage boys. This condition commonly results from hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle factors, certain medications, and sometimes underlying health conditions. Dr. Mordcai Blau lists down the critical causes of gynecomastia in teens.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

The primary driver of gynecomastia in adolescents is hormonal changes during puberty. Boys experience a surge in testosterone, the hormone responsible for male physical development. However, a temporary increase in estrogen, the hormone linked to female characteristics, can cause breast tissue to grow. This imbalance between gynecomastia and hormones is common in teenage boys and usually resolves as hormone levels stabilize.

2. Obesity and Weight Gain

Excess body fat can play a significant role in teen breast development. Fat tissue can produce estrogen, potentially leading to an imbalance in the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio. In addition to the hormonal impact, fat accumulation in the chest area can make the appearance of gynecomastia more pronounced, even if it’s purely fat rather than glandular tissue.

3. Medications and Health Conditions

Some adolescents may develop gynecomastia as a side effect of certain medications. For instance:
Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications
Drugs used for ulcers or acid reflux
Anabolic steroids, which some teens misuse

Health conditions such as thyroid disorders, kidney failure, or liver issues can also be contributors to adolescent gynecomastia causes, although these are less common.

4. Substance Use

Recreational drugs like marijuana or alcohol may influence hormone levels and contribute to gynecomastia in adolescents. The exact mechanisms vary, but the association between substance use and hormonal disruptions is well-documented. Avoiding these substances is a practical step in preventing unnecessary risks.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Although gynecomastia is typically harmless, persistent cases lasting more than two years or causing emotional distress warrant medical evaluation. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mordcai Blau can assess your teen’s condition and recommend the best course of action, including observation, medical treatments, or surgical correction.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If your teen is struggling with gynecomastia, Dr. Mordcai Blau offers expert care tailored to each patient’s needs. As a surgeon specializing in gynecomastia treatment, Dr. Blau has helped countless patients restore their confidence. Schedule a consultation today at his White Plains, NY practice to learn more about the available solutions.