When Should You Involve the Doctor With Gynecomastia?

by Dr. Steven Wallach

Gynecomastia is often casually called “man boobs,” and this enlargement can be caused by a variety of factors, from drugs to imbalanced hormones to other diseases. And while you might be able to live normally with enlarged breasts for a while, you should probably involve your doctor in the process. Here’s the why and the when.

Talk to Your Doctor

Most gynecomastia, especially during puberty, resolves on its own within 6 months. You won’t require any treatment, and your chest will return to normal. Because of this, you might feel comfortable waiting to talk to your doctor until that time period has elapsed.

However, you should also feel free to tell your doctor as soon as gynecomastia symptoms appear. Your doctor might not treat it, but this is normal. Usually with gynecomastia, doctors prefer to observe rather than treat, especially since it will often just go away itself. Instead of treatment, you should expect your doctor to determine the underlying cause and (unless it is a seriously harmful condition) letting the gynecomastia run its course.

It is important to let your doctor know about your gynecomastia. Even if it in itself is not a threat, those who suffer from gynecomastia have a much higher chance of developing male breast cancer.

Possible Medications

If you and your doctor do decide to treat your gynecomastia, here are some possible medications:

• Tamofixen/Nolvadex, or other selective estrogen receptor modulators
• Testosterone replacement
• Danazol
• Clomiphene gynecomastia

However, the most popular treatments for gynecomastia are surgical. Even if gynecomastia resolves itself, you may still have some excess and stretched out skin. In this case, you might want surgery to help return your chest to its original appearance.

If you think surgery is the best choice for you and your gynecomastia, come in and talk to Dr. Steven Wallach. He will be able to answer all your questions and provide you with the best procedures for your circumstances. There is nothing to be afraid of. You are in capable hands, and you can regain your normal body through a variety of techniques.