Will gynecomastia come back after surgery if I stay on Propecia? (Photo)

Question

I have been on propecia for 8 years, which I believe has slowed, though not stopped, my hair loss. Until recently the only side effects have been some hair loss on my lower legs. Just recently I've begun to develop gynecomastia. If I have corrective surgery but stay on propecia will it come back?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

With previous concerns of Propecia altering the estrogen/androgen ratio, this could definitely be something to worry about after a successful gynecomastia procedure. If your estrogen has been increased to this point due to the medication, thus causing the problem, it could surely cause a return later down the road. It certainly may not be immediate, but it would be something to discuss with your doctor before scheduling anything for certain.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

There have been lawsuits in the past regarding male breasts forming after taking Propecia, as it alters the estrogen/androgen ratio. Although it is a small percentage of men, it can happen as there is some breast tissue left for sculpting during male breast reduction. Be sure to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in gynecomastia. Good luck!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photograph.  Appropriate surgical correction of gynecomastia will prevent recurrence regardless of medication use.  Be sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon in consultation to obtain the best treatment advice.

Timothy A. Janiga, MD, FACS · Answer

Use of propecia can be associated with gynecomastia formation even though the incidence is low.  With a typical gynecomastia procedure you leave behind a small amount of fibroglandular tissue underneath the nipple-areolar complex to prevent a contour deformity.  This tissue theoretically could grow despite having surgery, although the chance is fairly low.  Meet with a plastic surgeon and discuss the situation.  Good luck!Timothy A. Janiga MD, FACS

Babak Dadvand, MD · Answer

Hi budhogan1,Thanks for the post and photo.  There is a relationship between Propecia and gynecomastia but the incidence is not high. That being said when doing gynecomastia surgery, some breast tissue is left behind to support the nipple and areola. Whether this reduced amount of breast could be stimulated by the Propecia is not something that can be definitively answered. I would base your decision on how much the gynecomastia is bothering you and affecting your ability to do the things you want to do. Sincerely,Dr. Dadvand

Will gynecomastia come back after surgery if I stay on Propecia? (Photo)

Answers (9)