When men first notice the unwelcome development of enlarged breast tissue, the immediate assumption is usually a hormonal imbalance. While this is the most common factor, particularly during puberty, it’s far from the only cause.
Many men seeking gynecomastia treatment at Signature Clinic are surprised to learn that their hormone levels are perfectly normal. This highlights a crucial point: gynecomastia can be caused by a wide range of factors, from medications to underlying health conditions. Understanding these surprising causes is the first step towards a solution.
The Hormonal Basics (and Why They’re Not the Full Story)
Gynecomastia occurs when there’s an imbalance between testosterone and oestrogen. Higher oestrogen levels stimulate glandular breast tissue growth, leading to an often distressing condition.
This is particularly common during adolescence due to natural hormonal fluctuations. For many boys, it resolves on its own. But for others, it persists into adulthood or develops later in life due to entirely different factors. Focusing only on hormones can cause delays in finding an effective solution, such as male breast reduction surgery.
Lifestyle & Environmental Factors
Hormones often interact with external influences. These lifestyle and environmental triggers play a major role in gynecomastia’s development.
Obesity and Weight Gain
Excess body fat is not inert, it’s hormonally active. Fat cells produce aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into oestrogen. As weight increases, so does oestrogen production, stimulating breast tissue growth.
While weight loss reduces fat, it rarely eliminates the firm glandular tissue behind true gynecomastia, which is why male chest reduction surgery is often required.
Medications and Substances
Many common medications list gynecomastia as a side effect, including:
- Certain antidepressants
- Heart medications
- Prostate treatments
Illicit drugs such as cannabis and heroin, along with anabolic steroid misuse, are also well-documented triggers (NHS source). For bodybuilders and athletes, surgery may be the only corrective option.
Environmental & Dietary Triggers
Chemicals in plastics and pesticides (endocrine disruptors) can mimic oestrogen and impact hormone balance. Diets high in processed foods and low in nutrients may also play a role in worsening the condition.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Though less common, gynecomastia can sometimes indicate other health issues, which makes medical consultation essential.
- Genetic conditions: Disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome can reduce testosterone and cause gynecomastia.
- Organ failure and disease: Liver disease, kidney failure, or thyroid conditions can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Tumours: Rarely, tumours of the testes or adrenal glands may secrete hormones that stimulate breast tissue growth.
Even after treating the underlying issue, existing glandular tissue usually does not regress, requiring surgical intervention.
Why Diet & Exercise Alone Don’t Work
It’s important to distinguish between pseudogynecomastia (fat accumulation) and true gynecomastia (glandular tissue growth).
- Fat-related chest enlargement may improve with weight loss.
- True glandular tissue, however, feels like a firm, rubbery mass behind the nipple and does not shrink with lifestyle changes.
This is why gynecomastia surgery is the only permanent treatment for many men.
Male Breast Reduction Surgery: The Only Permanent Solution
Male breast reduction surgery at Signature Clinic directly removes the excess glandular tissue and stubborn fat, reshaping the chest for a flatter, more masculine appearance.
Benefits include:
- Permanent removal of glandular tissue
- Improved body confidence and self-esteem
- A natural-looking, contoured chest
Patients consistently report high satisfaction rates, citing improved quality of life and confidence.
The Signature Clinic Difference
At Signature Clinic, we have pioneered male breast reduction under local anaesthesia for maximum comfort and safety. With thousands of procedures performed, we are one of the UK’s most trusted providers.
What you can expect:
- Patient Advisor Appointment – Friendly guidance on your options.
- Surgeon Consultation – Meet a GMC-registered expert.
- Nurse & Dietitian Consultations – Comprehensive pre- and post-care planning.
- Surgery Day – Usually 1–2 hours, often day-case procedures.
- Aftercare – 24/7 helpline, nurse support, and access to our online gynecomastia support hub.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Understanding the causes of gynecomastia is the first step. Taking action is the next.
Book your free, no-obligation consultation with Signature Clinic today and explore your options for permanent male breast reduction.
Disclaimer: *Individual outcomes and recovery experiences may vary. To have the best possible outcome, you must follow your surgeon’s tailored recommendations and instructions. This guide is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to cosmetic surgery or other medical procedures.
