I still have gynecomastia but I have no fat on my body and I've tried everything. Any suggestions? (photos)

Question

Im 17 and 6'0" and I weigh 130 lbs. Ive had gyno since I was 13. My physique is excellent, I have a six pack and a decent pec definition. I swim and play water polo for my school so I burn around 2500 calories everyday. Because I play a sport with basically no clothes you can imagine how hard it is for me to deal with gyno. Also because Im so skinny they are very noticeable. I find myself pinching my nipples to make them less puffy but if it is hot they go straight back. Please help!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

The male breast is composed of glandular tissue and fatty tissue. An excess in either type of tissue can cause the chest to take on the look of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia can affect #men of all different body types. There are different types of #gynecomastia. Several common factors can cause gynecomastia including excessive levels of #estrogen, natural #hormone changes, use of recreational drugs or alcohol, medications and their associated side effects, and, various health conditions. Also, there are different types of #gynecomastia. There are different types of #gynecomastia and three types of surgical treatment options available that treat gynecomastia. Smaller procedures can actually be done in the office with light oral sedation. Adolescents frequently do better with a light general #anaesthetic.Twilight or IV sedation are another great choice. All procedures are outpatient either in the office or a certified outpatients surgery facility.The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal #candidate. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will recommend the type best suited for you. The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal candidate. Weight, and more specifically body mass index (BMI), need to be considered when deciding.Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is highly suggested in order to determine if you are a surgery candidate and what treatments are best for you.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thanks for the photos.  Exercise won't affect the glandular component.  At 17, it is still possible that gynecomastia will resolve.  However, there is a rather easy solution to it.  Surgery can safely remove the glandular tissue. Be sure to chose a board certified plastic surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns regarding breast size/shape.  Generally speaking, assuming a young man has achieved a long-term stable weight and there are no “causative agents” involved, surgery may be indicated to treat persistent gynecomastia.  It is often best treated with  partial excision of the prominent glandular tissue.  If the prominence of the chest wall is caused by adipose tissue alone , then liposuction surgery may suffice.  When the time is right, seek consultation with well experienced plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you would be pleased with. You may find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

If you have had gynecomastia since age 13, it most likely is not going to go away by itself. I recommend that you see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon that specializes in male breast reduction who will be able to evaluate your condition and explain all of your options. Good luck!

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, if you are already slim then losing additional body weight likely is not going to remove the issue.  You could simply wait and see if it resolves over the next few years or seek medical attention to discuss ways to surgically remove excess tissue.

I still have gynecomastia but I have no fat on my body and I've tried everything. Any suggestions? (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Options for Gynecomastia at 17 years of age

Answer: Options for Gynecomastia at 17 years of age

Answer: Gynecomastia, no body fat

Answer: Gynecomastia, no body fat

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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I still have gynecomastia but I have no fat on my body and I've tried everything. Any suggestions? (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Options for Gynecomastia at 17 years of age

Answer: Options for Gynecomastia at 17 years of age

Answer: Gynecomastia, no body fat

Answer: Gynecomastia, no body fat

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.