Gynecomastia in adults can create both physical and emotional challenges, ranging from breast tenderness and chest discomfort to reduced self-confidence and dissatisfaction with body appearance. This condition occurs when adult men develop excess glandular or fatty tissue in the chest area, often appearing unexpectedly and without any lifestyle factor directly causing it.
In this guide, we’ll cover the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for adult gynecomastia—helping you better understand the condition and explore solutions such as male breast reduction surgery to restore comfort and confidence.
Understanding Gynecomastia in Adults
Gynecomastia is defined as the enlargement of male breasts due to excess glandular tissue growth. It may occur on one or both sides of the chest and is different from simple fat deposits, as the tissue feels firmer and more palpable beneath the nipple.
While gynecomastia is usually benign, it’s important to rule out male breast cancer, which can sometimes present with similar symptoms. That’s why a professional breast exam is crucial for proper diagnosis. Get professional gynecomastia surgery in Jeddah to achieve a flatter, more contoured chest.
Types of Gynecomastia
Pubertal Gynecomastia
Common during adolescence due to temporary hormonal changes. In most cases, it resolves naturally after puberty.
Persistent Pubertal Gynecomastia
For some men, breast tissue remains enlarged into adulthood. This persistent form often requires gynecomastia surgery or medical intervention.
Idiopathic Gynecomastia
When no identifiable cause is found despite testing, the condition is labeled idiopathic. Even without a clear trigger, treatments such as male breast reduction surgery can still provide relief.
Causes of Adult Gynecomastia
Pinpointing the cause of gynecomastia in adults is essential for choosing the right treatment.
Hormonal Imbalances
- Primary Hypogonadism: Testes produce too little testosterone.
- Secondary Hypogonadism: Pituitary or hypothalamus dysfunction reduces testosterone regulation.
- Excess Estrogen: Higher estrogen relative to testosterone can stimulate breast tissue growth.
- Age-Related Testosterone Decline: Leads to hormonal imbalance favoring estrogen.
Medical Conditions
- Testicular or Adrenal Tumors: May release hormones causing breast development.
- Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism affect hormone levels.
- Kidney Failure: Impacts testosterone production and hormone balance.
Medications and Substances
- Anabolic Steroids
- Marijuana and Opioids
- Antidepressants, Amphetamines, Calcium Channel Blockers
These substances can disrupt natural hormone levels, leading to gynecomastia. Explore the male breast reduction price in Jeddah for safe and effective gynecomastia treatment.
How Gynecomastia in Jeddah Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation to distinguish true gynecomastia from excess chest fat or male breast cancer.
Clinical and Physical Examination
- Breast exam for glandular tissue, nipple discharge, and tenderness.
- Palpable firmness beneath the nipple confirms glandular growth.
Diagnostic Tests
- Hormonal Testing: Testosterone, estrogen, thyroid hormones, LH, hCG.
- Ultrasound: Detects testicular or adrenal tumors.
- Liver Function Tests: Screens for chronic liver disease.
- Biopsy: Performed if malignancy is suspected.
Gynecomastia Treatment Options
The good news is that gynecomastia is treatable, and there are multiple approaches available depending on the severity and underlying cause. In most cases, a combination of methods is used to achieve the best results. Treat gynecomastia in Jeddah with expert surgeons for a natural-looking, sculpted chest.
Medical Treatments
One of the first lines of management for gynecomastia is medical therapy. Before starting treatment, it’s essential to identify and address any underlying health conditions. These may include endocrine disorders such as primary hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, or pituitary gland dysfunctions that reduce testosterone production.
Medical treatment can also involve the use of estrogen receptor blockers, such as tamoxifen. These medications work by targeting estrogen receptors directly, limiting estrogen’s effects on breast tissue in both males and females. This approach is particularly effective for cases where gynecomastia causes tenderness, swelling, or discomfort in one or both breasts, helping relieve pain and improve appearance without surgery.
Surgical Treatments
For persistent, severe, or treatment-resistant gynecomastia, surgical options may be recommended to restore a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
- Excision of Glandular Tissue: This procedure removes firm glandular tissue located behind and around the nipples. It is commonly performed for persistent pubertal gynecomastia, unexplained adult cases, or when medical therapy alone is insufficient.
- Liposuction of Fatty Breast Tissue: Designed to remove excess fatty tissue, liposuction is often combined with glandular excision to achieve optimal aesthetic results, particularly in men with enlarged breasts due to both fat and glandular tissue.
- Mastectomy: In rare, severe cases—such as when there is a high risk of breast cancer or the presence of testicular or adrenal tumors—a more extensive surgical removal of breast tissue may be necessary to ensure health and restore chest symmetry.
Restore Confidence with Gynecomastia Surgery
If you’re experiencing gynecomastia in Jeddah, you don’t have to live with discomfort or reduced confidence. Male breast reduction surgery performed by a skilled plastic surgeon can restore a flatter, more masculine chest and improve quality of life.
Dr. Hattan Aljaaly specializes in gynecomastia treatment in Jeddah and offers personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. Schedule your gynecomastia consultation today and take the first step toward a more confident you. Book your male breast reduction consultation in Jeddah to discuss options and recovery.
FAQs About Gynecomastia in Jeddah
How Long Does Gynecomastia Last in Adults?
The duration varies depending on the cause. Pubertal gynecomastia typically resolves naturally within 6 to 24 months as hormone levels stabilize. In adult men, however, persistent gynecomastia usually indicates ongoing hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, or medication effects. Without treatment, the condition may last indefinitely, potentially causing discomfort, embarrassment, or self-consciousness.
What Is the Recovery Time After Gynecomastia Surgery?
Recovery after male breast reduction in Jeddah usually follows a predictable timeline. Most patients can resume light daily activities and return to work within 1–2 weeks. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and chest-focused workouts are generally avoided for 4–6 weeks. Complete healing, including the resolution of swelling and full tissue stabilization, typically occurs within 6 weeks. Following post-operative care instructions is essential for a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Is Gynecomastia Linked to Prostate Cancer?
Gynecomastia is not directly linked to prostate cancer. However, some prostate cancer treatments, such as androgen deprivation therapy or anti-androgen medications, can disrupt the balance between testosterone and estrogen in the body. This hormonal shift may trigger breast tissue enlargement, resulting in gynecomastia. It’s important for patients undergoing these therapies to discuss potential side effects with their doctor and explore options for managing breast enlargement if it occurs.