It is not easy becoming an adolescent. It is difficult to manage emotional problems and quick physical changes, let alone the societal aspects of school, while you strive to find your place while simultaneously blending in. Adolescence may be especially tough for teenagers with gynecomastia or swollen man breasts. The chest begins to seem less manly simply as you shift from a young person to a man. It can cause self-consciousness or have a long-term influence on one’s self-image.
First, understand that either you or your kid is not the only one if he has gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is quite frequent in teenagers, with much to 69 percent of guys between 10 and 19 being affected. This is related to hormonal fluctuations; many guys make too much estrogen throughout puberty, which leads to breast growth. Although the breasts typically flatten out when hormones balance and adolescence finishes, this does not make it less unpleasant for those impacted. Therefore, it is usual for adolescents suffering from gynecomastia to desire to remove the ‘boobs’ as soon as possible. As a family, you could be wondering what the correct course of action is and just how you could assist.
What is gynecomastia and how does it affect you?
Throughout puberty, some boys acquire breasts. Gynecomastia is the medical term for this condition. It is generally caused by natural hormonal changes throughout adolescence and fades away by itself in a few months to years.
What are the symptoms and signs of gynecomastia?
Breast enlargement is caused by gynecomastia. It might affect either or both of your breasts. A tiny, springy lump can sometimes be sensed under the nip. The breast region may feel painful, particularly in the weeks after the onset of gynecomastia.
What are the causes of gynecomastia?
In teenage boys, adolescence is the most frequent source of gynecomastia. Hormones regulate that help us communicate with one another. Puberty can throw people off balance, which can contribute to gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia can be caused by various medications, drugs (such alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, or heroin), steroids (used to grow muscle and enhance strength), or other medicines. Tea tree oil & lavender oil are natural supplements that might cause gynecomastia. In addition, gynecomastia may occasionally be a symptom of other illnesses.
There is also a condition known as pseudogynecomastia. It has hardly anything to do with puberty or adolescence. Instead, when a man’s chest fat bulges out, it gives the impression that he has breasts. A doctor’s examination can determine whether a man has gynecomastia and otherwise pseudo gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia affects men of all ages
Gynecomastia affects one or even both breasts in around 50% of boys hitting puberty.
What is the procedure for diagnosing gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is diagnosed by gathering information and performing an examination. Further tests are commonly not required; however, blood samples are sometimes needed.
What is the treatment for gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia typically resolves on its own without the need for medical intervention. In a few days to several months, the chests flatten down.
If your kid is considerably overweight, losing weight will almost certainly minimize the looks of gynecomastia. When undergoing surgery, get the advice of a certified weight reduction doctor.
Because hormonal changes are continually moving after male breast reduction until complete maturity, there is a chance that gynecomastia will return to some degree. In addition, gynecomastia may potentially reappear due to future weight fluctuations or drug usage. As a result, It is advised to patients to postpone male chest reduction as long as necessary, ideally, till they reach the age of 18, and they’re more able to be significantly matured. Parental consent for medical operations is not required. However, if gynecomastia is causing severe mental or social problems, the advantages of having breast reduction may be worthwhile if outcomes alter with time.
Takeaway
Treatment is a personal decision that you, your kid, your physician, and a skilled cosmetic surgeon must make together. Most adolescents with gynecomastia overcome the disease; therefore, masculine breast reduction isn’t usually essential. However, your teenager’s mental and emotional well-being is critical. Early gynecomastia treatment may help a guy feel more secure in his physique and prevent social suffering throughout the crucial adolescent years, resulting in a stronger self-image as a grownup.
David Tobin did his degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. He is interested in psychology, mental health, and wellness.
