gynecomastia

I have had gynecomastia since I was about 13-14.  The doctors keep telling me that it will go away, but it hasn't and I am now 19.  Besides surgery, are there any other alternatives to ridding my chest of these lumps?  I am 5'10 and weigh about 170 lbs. and have been in excellent physical shape my whole life.  I know this is usually a problem associated with obesity, but I have never been overweight.  I have read about estrogen blockers online that are commonly used by bodybuilders, but they are only recommended to be used for 4-6 weeks at a time.  Is there any danger to taking these estrogen blockers, and will they cure my gynecomastia if I take them for only 4-6 weeks?  Also, is there anything else you would recommend?  Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The first question would be what is causing the gynecomastia.  This would include various endocrine diseases, such as medications, liver disease, testicular dysfunction, thyroid dysfunction or chronic renal failure to name a few.  Each of these diseases needs to be evaluated for, and can be via various blood tests.  

If everything is negative, and there are no hormone dysunction, evaluation with a plastic surgeon can be considered to discuss removing the affected tissue.  I am not aware of a non-surgical option if all the labs return normal.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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