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Schedule A ConsultationIf you’ve discovered a lump behind your nipple, you’re not alone—and you’re right to seek information. While it’s often a benign condition like gynecomastia, a lump in the chest area of a male should always be evaluated to rule out anything serious and identify the right treatment path.
This guide breaks down the possible causes of a lump behind the nipple in males, how to tell if it’s gynecomastia, and when to see a specialist.
It’s not uncommon for males—especially teenagers and young adults—to notice a small, round lump behind the areola. In most cases, this is related to hormonal changes and is part of a condition called gynecomastia. But not all lumps are harmless.
That’s why it’s important to understand what you’re feeling, how long it’s been there, and whether it’s changed over time.
Gynecomastia is the most common cause of a firm, rubbery lump behind the nipple in males. It results from a hormonal imbalance, typically when estrogen levels are relatively high compared to testosterone. This can occur naturally during puberty, aging, or due to certain medications or lifestyle factors.
Signs it may be gynecomastia:
While pseudogynecomastia causes a soft, fatty chest appearance, it usually does not cause a distinct lump behind the nipple. The chest feels soft and lacks a firm mass.
Some men develop cysts or benign growths, such as fibroadenomas or lipomas. These are usually non-cancerous but can feel like small lumps.
Although rare, men can develop breast cancer. Warning signs include:
Any sudden changes or new symptoms should be addressed immediately by a medical provider.
Infections in the tissue can cause lumps that are red, warm, or painful to the touch. These usually develop rapidly and may require antibiotics or drainage.
You may be dealing with gynecomastia if:
Gynecomastia may be mild and limited to the nipple area (Type 1), or more extensive, with fullness across the chest.
You should schedule a medical evaluation if:
At our Newport Beach clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of gynecomastia, including puffy nipples and firm lumps beneath the areola. Our team can determine whether your condition requires monitoring, hormone testing, or surgical removal.
If your lump is confirmed to be glandular breast tissue, the most effective treatment is gynecomastia surgery, which involves:
Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and delivers permanent, ideal male chest.
If you’re concerned about a lump behind your nipple, don’t wait or guess. Whether it’s gynecomastia or something else, early evaluation is the key to peace of mind—and effective treatment if needed.
Schedule a gynecomastia consultation with Dr. Joseph Cruise, one of the leading gynecomastia specialists in the United States. In-person and virtual appointments are available for men across Southern California and beyond.
Dr. Joseph Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Regarded as one of the top gynecomastia surgeons in the world, Dr. Cruise has gynecomastia-specific content that can be found at lagynecomastia.org. Dr. Cruise has dedicated his career to cosmetic surgery but has also had extensive training in General Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Joseph Cruise is also a member of the Rhinoplasty Society as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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