Pittsburgh Male Breast Reduction for Adolescents and Body Builders

Adolescent Gynecomastia

While statistics vary, it's estimated that up to 65 percent of adolescent males are affected by gynecomastia. The ambiguous nature of the data is due to the lack of standardized sizing for glandular tissue; however, doctors use a size range of anywhere from 1/2 to 2 centimeters of excessive breast tissue to make a diagnosis on patients under 18.

Typically, gynecomastia in teens is often visible between 10 and 13 years old. Patients and parents may notice its onset around six months after other secondary male characteristics become apparent. The condition, triggered by an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone, may progress in two ways: regressing with maturity (the more favorable outcome), or becoming increasingly firm and fibrous as the boy reaches adulthood. In the latter case, surgical treatment is the sole remedy. In Pittsburgh, male breast reduction is available from a competent specialist. Dr. Heil is ready to help you!

The condition, triggered by an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone, may progress in two ways: regressing with maturity (the more favorable outcome), or becoming increasingly firm and fibrous as the boy reaches adulthood. In the latter case, surgical treatment is the sole remedy.

Gynecomastia Drugs

Many parents inquire about potential gynecomastia medications. Currently, there are no FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of gynecomastia. You may wish to research some of the drugs currently under investigation, which include:

  • Tamoxifen, which blocks estrogen receptors
  • Danazol, which halts estrogen productions
  • Dihydrotestosterone, an androgen

As pharmaceutical science works toward the development of a gynecomastia drug that is safe for market use, surgery is still the most effective means of reversing the painful effects of adolescent gynecomastia.

As a Pittsburgh gynecomastia specialist, Dr. Heil will gladly meet with young patients and their parents for an initial consultation; he can answer questions, address concerns, and share before and after gynecomastia photos during that time.


Bodybuilder Gynecomastia

Anabolic steroids are known to lead to a number of health problems, one of which is indeed gynecomastia. Those who hamper their well-being with steroid use are at serious risk for developing gynecomastia at some point, as the drugs can cause estrogen levels in the male body to skyrocket; and, many steroids experience a process called "aromatization," or conversion to estrogen-like compounds.

Either way, the additional estrogen often results in the reduction of testosterone production and the growth of breast tissue. Unfortunately for many men, this tissue is not guaranteed to diminish after steroid use stops. In fact, the embarrassing "man boobs" often harden into scar tissue, and no amount of diet and exercise will eliminate them. Even prior to the development of scar tissue, surgery is likely to be one's only option for restoring the chest to its normal appearance. In Pittsburgh, male breast reduction is available from a compassionate doctor who can provide you with natural results.

Preventing Gynecomastia with Medications

Many athletes attempt to fend off a developing gynecomastia condition with medications, health store concoctions, and other anecdotal remedies. It's important for steroid users to understand that these substances are untested, not FDA-approved, and not necessarily even effective. And as with any drug or supplement, their use can be unsafe (particularly when they mix with steroids in the body).

The only way to prevent gynecomastia from steroid use is to avoid steroid use entirely. If a condition has already developed, surgery is the safest, most effective solution to the problem.

To discuss your options for Pittsburgh male breast reduction, contact gynecomastia surgeon, Dr. Heil, to request an initial consultation.