I Have Gynecomastia — Will My Son Have It As Well?

Just as people can inherit a genetic tendency to height or a certain hair color, they also inherit genes related to chronic disease, mental illness, addiction, or even undesirable features. Gynecomastia, or the growth of breast tissue in men, can have roots in your genetics. If you’re concerned about passing those genes onto existing or potential sons, a specialist can help you learn more about the condition and how it’s treated. 

At DiGeronimo MD Advanced Plastic Surgery, we provide help for patients suffering from gynecomastia. It’s possible to both attain your desired aesthetic and remove extra weight that’s been curving your shoulders and pulling on your upper back for years. If your sons are at risk, we can help them early in life and prevent the problems that come along with this often hereditary condition.

Understanding gynecomastia 

Gynecomastia refers to the swelling and overgrowth of breast tissue in boys or men. Many different factors can contribute to the expansion of breast tissue, ranging from puberty to weight gain. 

Growth is supported by the hormones we produce in different amounts, which can vary at different points in our lives. Generally, male children produce more testosterone as they age, leading to the development of muscle mass and body hair. 

Newborns often have enlarged breasts due to the high levels of estrogen during pregnancy, but these go away within a few weeks. Hormone changes during puberty can also lead to the development of breast tissue, but this also tends to resolve itself. 

Gynecomastia in adulthood has many contributing factors, including: 

• Hypogonadism, or low testosterone levels 
• Liver failure and cirrhosis medication
• Cancers of the testes, adrenal glands, or pituitary gland 
• Hyperthyroidism, or a hyperactive thyroid 
• Kidney failure and dialysis treatment 

While often harmless, abnormal amounts of breast tissue in men can be a source of deep shame and embarrassment. Even those who aren’t familiar with gynecomastia as a condition have likely heard a joke made at another man’s expense.

If you struggled with gynecomastia throughout your formative years, you likely want to spare your sons the same experiences. Low self-esteem, body dysphoria, and even bullying are all common issues for boys with gynecomastia, and the effects last well into adulthood. 

Hereditary factors and outlook 

The good news about genetic gynecomastia is that the risk is low when it comes to passing on. Unless you have a family history of Klinefelter syndrome or something that causes hormonal imbalance, you shouldn’t worry too much about your sons getting breast tissue in large amounts as they grow.

However, if your enlarged breasts were caused by weight gain, known as pseudo gynecomastia, you’ll need to raise your children with an understanding of dietary health to avoid childhood obesity and excess breast tissue.

Even if your son does begin developing enlarged breasts at some point, that doesn’t mean he will have them forever. The condition can sometimes resolve itself, and medication and surgery can help when it doesn’t. A specialist can help evaluate the situation and find the best possible solution. 

Dr. DiGeronimo can evaluate you or your son’s case and advise you and him about the options available, up to and including surgical removal of excess breast tissue. To learn more and schedule a consultation, call 305-376-0378 or request an appointment online.