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Adult Gynecomastia, 40 and beyond

June 29, 2023

While men in their 40s and older aren’t the only ones who are at risk of developing gynecomastia, it can be quite a surprise when it happens at this stage in life.

In most cases, what appears to be the sudden onset of gynecomastia, is usually something that has been happening gradually over time as part of the again process. 

But before we talk about treatment, let’s discuss what gynecomastia is, some of its causes, and the treatment we provide at Cruise Plastic Surgery.

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition that causes an increase in the amount of male breast tissue in men. It can affect one or both breasts, and the increase can be uneven, with one breast appearing larger than the other.  

The issue most often occurs in adolescent boys going through puberty, men who use steroids and other medications known to cause gynecomastia and aging men. 

While in most cases, it is not a serious medical condition, it can be tough for those who develop it because it can be embarrassing, and there can be pain or discomfort.

When gynecomastia occurs in men 40’s and older, the only option for improving the appearance of the chest is surgery. This is because the main component is skin laxity more than it is excess breast tissue. As the skin sags, so do the tissues beneath. 

Causes of Gynecomastia in Men 40s and Older

There are multiple causes of gynecomastia, especially in men age 40 and older. The causes of adult gynecomastia can include everything from hormonal changes, certain medications, and medical conditions.

Hormonal Imbalance

The hormones testosterone and estrogen control sex characteristics in both men and women. Testosterone controls male traits and estrogen controls female traits. When men have an increase in estrogen, decreased testosterone levels, or their estrogen levels are out of balance with their testosterone levels, it can lead to gynecomastia.

As men get older, their amount of testosterone naturally decreases, which can produce gynecomastia.

Medication

A number of medications can also cause gynecomastia. Some of the medications that cause gynecomastia include:

  • Anti-androgens that are used to treat enlarged prostate and prostate cancer
  • Anabolic steroids and androgens that treat hormone deficiencies and muscle loss 
  • ADHD medications that contain amphetamines
  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Antibiotics
  • Heart medications like digoxin

Medical Conditions

There are also quite a few medical conditions that can cause gynecomastia by affecting the balance of hormones. Some of the health conditions that can be associated with gynecomastia include:

  • Klinefelter syndrome or pituitary insufficiency can lower testosterone production
  • Tumors involving the testes, adrenal gland, or pituitary gland can produce hormones that cause an imbalance of estrogen and testosterone
  • Hyperthyroidism: a condition that causes the thyroid to produce too much of the hormone thyroxine
  • Kidney failure
  • Liver disease and cirrhosis

Treatment for Gynecomastia in Older Men

One of the most effective treatments for gynecomastia is male breast reduction surgery. While liposuction and breast tissue removal may be all that is needed, some men may require skin excision. 

Schedule A Consultation Today

Are you struggling with gynecomastia and looking for treatment? You can be in no better hands to treat gynecomastia than Dr. Cruise. He is an expert in gynecomastia and will listen to your concerns, determine which type of gynecomastia you have, and then recommend the right treatment for you.

To schedule a consultation today, call our Newport Beach, CA office at 949-644-4808 or use our online scheduling form.

What is Adult Gynecomastia?

Adult gynecomastia is simply any man 20 years or older who has
developed excess breast tissue causing their chest to take on a more feminine appearance than desired.

Gynecomastia can develop for reasons such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, steroid use, certain medications and herbal remedies, marijuana, and health conditions hormone in nature. Read more here. 

We recommend being medically evaluated to ensure there is not an underlying medical condition causing your gynecomastia.

Adult gynecomastia ranges in severity from mild to severe, and for this reason, Dr. Cruise created the Cruise Classification System to categorize the types of gynecomastia and help men better understand the underlying issues, along with treatment options for each. Learn more about the Gynecomastia Types.

Surgery is the only proven option for permanently getting rid of gynecomastia. Do not be fooled by the endless ads and information about non-surgical alternatives for treating gynecomastia.


Adult Gynecomastia Patient:

My life has gotten so much better. I’m more confident and happier. I was in Florida at a resort and was finally able to go in the pool without my shirt on in front of my friends. The surgery has been life changing. It’s unbelievable. I wish I would have done this 15-20 years ago.

Brandon, 38 years old

Do I Need Surgery?

The answer isn’t one Dr. Cruise can answer for you. Ultimately, it comes down to whether or not your gynecomastia is causing you enough grief.  If you feel you are not living the life you want because of your gynecomastia, then you may want to consider having surgery.

If you are visiting our website, it’s probably safe to say you are bothered enough by your gynecomastia to be doing online research to see what can be done to get rid of it.

Ask yourself the questions below to gauge how much your man boobs bother you.

  • Do you try to hide your chest with baggy, loose clothing?
  • Do you wear compression shirts to flatten your chest?
  • Are you too embarrassed to take your shirt off at the pool, beach, etc.
  • Have you become depressed and withdrawn?
  • Is your sex life affected by your condition?
  • Do lack self-esteem?
  • Are you frustrated with working out because it doesn’t seem to help?

Adult Gynecomastia Procedure Information

As mentioned earlier, Dr. Cruise has developed a classification system for the Types of Gynecomastia along with the treatment plan for each. There are 6 types in total, with adult gynecomastia falling anywhere between Type 1 and Type 5. Most surgeries are performed in-office under local anesthesia, however general anesthesia is always an option or may be recommended in certain situations.

To determine which type of gynecomastia you have, and to learn about the surgical procedure, healing process, and more Click Here.

Gynecomastia Types

Type 1 through Type 5

Healing Time

Back to work in approx. 3 days

Surgery Cost

Ranges $7,500 - $16,000

Contact Us to Get Started

Adult Gynecomastia Before & After Photos

Adult Gynecomastia Surgery Cost

The cost for adult male breast reduction surgery varies depending on the type of gynecomastia present and whether or not the procedure is performed under local anesthesia in the office or general anesthesia in an outpatient surgery center.

Type 1 – $7,500
Type 2 – $7,500 – $8,500
Type 3 – $9,000 – $10,o00
Type 4 – $10,500 – $13,400
Type 5 – $13,000 – $16,000

Please note: The costs above are provided to give you an idea of what surgery may cost. Your final surgery cost will be determined after having a consultation with Dr. Cruise.

Financing is available for those who would like to pursue this option for paying for surgery. Visit our Gynecomastia Financing page for details about the companies with work with.

Photo Submission Guideline

Front Left Side Right Side Oblique

Erick after gynecomastia surgery, finally able to take off his shirt at the beach.

Schedule a Consultation

Contact our office today through our online contact form or by calling us at (949) 644-4808 to get some answers for your gynecomastia. Dr. Cruise offers an initial consultation to determine if this is the next right step in your journey.

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