Gynecomastia Surgery Center in Los Angeles

Yes, puberty is one of the most common times for gynecomastia to develop. During adolescence, hormone levels fluctuate significantly as the body matures, and these changes can temporarily create an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen. This pubertal gynecomastia affects approximately 50-60% of teenage boys and typically develops between ages 12 and 14. The good news is that this type of gynecomastia usually resolves on its own within 6 months to 2 years as hormone levels stabilize. If the condition persists beyond age 17 or causes significant psychological distress, medical evaluation and potential treatment may be recommended.

Gynecomastia is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and medical history review. A doctor will examine the breast tissue to distinguish between true gynecomastia (excess glandular tissue) and pseudogynecomastia (excess fat). They'll also check for tenderness, discharge, or lumps. The medical evaluation includes reviewing medications, health conditions, and substance use that might contribute to the condition. Additional tests may include blood work to check hormone levels, liver and kidney function, and thyroid function. In some cases, mammography or ultrasound may be ordered to rule out breast cancer or other abnormalities, particularly if there's unusual discharge, pain, or asymmetric growth.

Yes, numerous medications and hormonal imbalances can trigger gynecomastia. Common medications include anti-androgens used for prostate conditions, anabolic steroids, some AIDS medications, certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, some antibiotics, ulcer medications like cimetidine, chemotherapy drugs, and heart medications like digoxin and calcium channel blockers. Hormonal imbalances that cause gynecomastia include conditions like hypogonadism (low testosterone production), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), tumors affecting hormone-producing glands, kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, and malnutrition. If medication is suspected as the cause, doctors may consider alternative treatments, though you should never stop prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Treatment for gynecomastia depends on the underlying cause, severity, and duration of the condition. If medication is causing the issue, switching to an alternative may resolve it. For pubertal gynecomastia, watchful waiting is often recommended as it typically resolves naturally. When treatment is necessary, options include medications like tamoxifen or raloxifene (though not FDA-approved specifically for this use) to block estrogen effects. For persistent or severe cases causing significant physical discomfort or psychological distress, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgical options include liposuction to remove excess fat, mastectomy to remove breast gland tissue (often performed with minimal scarring through small incisions), or a combination of both techniques. The choice of treatment is individualized based on the patient's specific situation and goals.

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males caused by a hormonal imbalance between testosterone and estrogen. It can affect one or both breasts, often unevenly.

Common causes include natural hormonal changes during puberty or aging, certain medications, health conditions affecting hormone production, and use of substances like alcohol or marijuana.

Yes. About 50-60% of teenage boys experience pubertal gynecomastia due to hormonal fluctuations, which usually resolves within 6 months to 2 years.

Diagnosis involves physical exams to distinguish true gynecomastia from fat deposits, reviewing medical history, and possibly blood tests or imaging to check hormone levels or rule out other conditions.

Medications like anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, some antidepressants, and heart drugs can cause gynecomastia. Conditions such as hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, liver cirrhosis, and kidney failure also contribute.

Treatment depends on cause and severity and may include medication changes, hormonal therapies, or surgery like liposuction or gland removal for persistent cases.

It is located at 2080 Century Park East Suite 515, Los Angeles, CA 90067, USA.

The center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Nearby centers like Los Angeles Integrative Gastroenterology and Nutrition and California Rehab Medical Group offer complementary services that patients might find helpful before or after treatment.

Yes, nearby specialists include Moein Surgical Arts (plastic surgeon), Carlo Honrado, MD, FACS (plastic surgeon), and various doctors and surgeons in the area who may assist with related health needs.