Can Bodybuilding Cause Gynecomastia?

Understanding the Relationship Between Gynecomastia and Bodybuilding

Bodybuilding is a widely admired sport that involves building muscle through workouts, diet changes, and sometimes supplements that ultimately affect your body’s appearance. If you are a bodybuilder or know someone who is, you may have heard of gynecomastia, or heard it referred to as “man boobs.”

This condition doesn’t cause a medical emergency, but Dr. Mazaheri is here to help you understand this condition that primarily affects bodybuilders and offer them surgical solutions. Before getting into the treatment options, let’s go over gynecomastia and how bodybuilders are specifically affected.

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the development of glandular tissue around the nipple area in males, resulting in a swollen, fatty chest. While typically harmless, it can cause psychological and social distress to those who have it.

The condition primarily stems from an imbalance in estrogen and androgen levels. Gynecomastia can affect all men regardless of their fitness and body fat level. If caught in the early stages, some treatments may reverse this condition; however, surgical intervention might be necessary for persistent cases.

What Is Bodybuilder Gynecomastia?

Bodybuilder gynecomastia occurs when male bodybuilders develop breast tissue due to hormonal imbalances. Anabolic steroid use is a common cause, elevating estrogen levels and disrupting the natural hormone balance. It’s crucial to note that anabolic steroid use is illegal and poses severe health risks, including cardiovascular issues and mental health concerns. Seek advice from a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Mazaheri before considering performance-enhancing drugs to fully understand the associated risks and benefits.

How Common Is Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders?

Although it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact number, gynecomastia is not uncommon among bodybuilders. Since the use of anabolic steroids is illegal, many may not feel comfortable seeking a doctor. Still, research suggests a significant number of bodybuilders undergo surgical treatment for gynecomastia.

What Causes Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders?

What Causes Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders?

Gynecomastia in bodybuilders is attributed to hormonal imbalances, notably elevated estrogen levels and decreased androgen levels. Various factors, natural and synthetic, contribute to this imbalance, such as:

• Anabolic Steroids: Synthetic testosterone disrupts hormone balance, increasing estrogen levels and developing breast tissue.
• Alcohol Consumption: Reduces testosterone and elevates estrogen levels, fostering gynecomastia.
• Medical Conditions: Liver disease, kidney failure, and hypogonadism can disrupt hormone balance, fostering gynecomastia.
• Medications: Antibiotics, anti-anxiety, and anti-ulcer meds can raise estrogen levels, contributing to gynecomastia. Medications like Spironolactone, Ketoconazole, and Cimetidine are associated with gynecomastia.
• Puberty: Gynecomastia may be present in boys going through puberty, most commonly occurring between ages 13 and 14 years. This condition typically resolves within six months to two years, but may persist in some individuals beyond age 17.
• HIV/AIDS Treatment: Some treatments for HIV/AIDS, like HAART, can lead to gynecomastia.

Related: Understanding Why Men Get Breasts

Do Steroids and Prohormones Cause Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders? 

The usage of steroids or prohormones can significantly increase the risk of gynecomastia. The reason for this is that these drugs cause an imbalance in both your testosterone and estrogen levels. This imbalance is a direct link to the development of gynecomastia. 

How Do Steroids and Prohormones Cause Gynecomastia?

Both steroids and prohormones directly affect the production of hormones in your body. Anabolic steroids, for example, get converted into estrogen while also decreasing the body’s natural production of testosterone. This all leads to a heavy hormonal imbalance which can cause the gland tissue around the breast to grow. Even when steroids or prohormones are stopped altogether, the breast tissue will not return to its original state.

What Percentage of Steroid Users Get Gynecomastia? 

In a study conducted between 2019 and 2022, 39% of 74 patients who have used anabolic steroids were found to have some form of gynecomastia growth occurring in their breast glands. Many of those patients were bodybuilders. 

Will Steroid Gyno Go Away?

Gynecomastia linked to steroid use will not go away. Stopping steroids entirely will not reduce the development of the condition, leaving the tissue permanently swollen. The only way to eliminate excess breast tissue is through gynecomastia surgery. 

Can Increasing Testosterone Get Rid of Gynecomastia? 

Increasing testosterone will not get rid of developed gynecomastia. Treatments like testosterone replacement therapy can help in cases of low testosterone, but it will not eliminate gynecomastia. In fact, treatments like these may even cause the gynecomastia condition to worsen.

Can Gyno From Steroids Go Away? 

No, gynecomastia caused by steroids will not go away on its own. Gynecomastia is directly linked to hormonal imbalances, which drugs like anabolic steroids can affect. Stopping steroid usage altogether may help to improve a hormonal imbalance but it does not reverse the development of gynecomastia. The only way to fully eliminate the condition is through surgery. 

Can Bulking Cause Gyno? 

Gynecomastia is not directly caused by techniques like bulking. However, bulking can contribute to the condition if it is already present. This is typically due to the high amount of calories and foods being consumed, which can disrupt hormonal balances and expedite gynecomastia. So for those bodybuilders looking to bulk, make sure you are monitoring hormone levels and the types of food being eaten.

What Is the Difference Between Bodybuilding Gynecomastia and Chest Fat?

Gynecomastia differs from pseudogynecomastia (also known as lipomastia), where breast enlargement results from fat deposits, common in overweight males. If you are a male with enlarged or tender breasts, call your healthcare provider, and they can examine to determine whether the tissue in your breasts is fatty or glandular.

Related: Do I Have Gynecomastia or Just Chest Fat?

Is Gynecomastia in Bodybuilders Different From That of Other Gynecomastia Patients? 

Gynecomastia that occurs in bodybuilders is different. This is due to the growth of breast tissue over a layer of muscle that is sensitive to inflammation. As a result, treating gynecomastia in bodybuilders can be more challenging because the incision around the areola is smaller, complicating the removal of the excess tissue. This surgery requires a surgeon experienced in removing gynecomastia from bodybuilders.

Symptoms of Bodybuilder Gynecomastia

1. Larger Breasts – The breast area may appear uneven and large.
2. Lumps – Found underneath the nipple, lumps are typically small in size and rubbery to the touch.
3. Sore Breast Area – A feeling of soreness surrounds the breast area, usually occurring a few months after the condition develops.
4. Appearance of Dimples – The growth of the breast tissue can cause the outer skin to become dimpled.
5. Sensitivity – Breasts may feel tender while the nipple area may feel sensitive against clothing.
6. Nipple Discharge – Bloody fluid or discharge that comes out of one or both nipples may be present.

Related: How To Tell If You Have Gynecomastia?

How Is Gynecomastia Treated for Bodybuilders?

• Lifestyle Changes
  Certain cases of gynecomastia can be treated by changing lifestyle choices. Changes can include reducing or stopping steroid use, cutting back on alcohol, and maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine.
• Medications
  Various medications can be used as a treatment for gynecomastia during its early stages. Medications, including estrogen receptor modulators, directly affect and balance hormone levels, stopping further development of gynecomastia.
• Surgery
  In severe instances, surgery such as liposuction or mastectomy may be necessary to remove breast tissue. Depending on the development of the muscles underneath the breast, surgery may be more difficult to perform as the proper incision area becomes smaller to work with. 

What Is the Best Treatment for Established Gynecomastia in a Bodybuilder?

Surgery, like a mastectomy, is best suited for bodybuilders. These procedures allow a surgeon to completely remove the breast tissue, which eliminates the development of gynecomastia. This treatment method can include liposuction, which removes excess fatty tissue.

Related: What to Expect Immediately After Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

What Is Subcutaneous Mastectomy?

A subcutaneous mastectomy is a medical surgery that directly removes the breast tissue while preserving areas like the skin, nipples, and areolas. In the case of bodybuilders with gynecomastia, subcutaneous mastectomy removes the breast tissue and reverses the condition. This is typically the best way of treating gynecomastia past its early stages of development. 

 When to see a Doctor?

If you are worried that you are currently suffering from gynecomastia, check your body for the following signs:

• Pain, tenderness, increased sensitivity in your breasts
• Breasts appear and feel swollen
• Fluid discharge from one or both of your nipples
• Feeling lumps underneath the nipples
• Breast skin has suddenly dimpled

If you are experiencing one or more of these, it is best to contact a doctor or member of your healthcare team for treatment options and advice.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Bodybuilder Gynecomastia Without Surgery

For those looking for non-surgical methods, natural approaches can help rebalance estrogen and testosterone levels. This includes incorporating cruciferous vegetables into the diet and avoiding foods known to increase estrogen levels, such as sesame seeds, dried fruits, yams, tofu, and turmeric. Lifestyle habits like getting enough sleep, exercising regularly (especially building leg muscle), managing stress, and considering certain vitamin supplements like vitamin D and magnesium can also be beneficial.

Exercises May Not Reduce Gynecomastia

While exercise is sometimes suggested, it’s generally ineffective for reducing glandular tissue growth caused by gynecomastia, especially when triggered by anabolic steroid use. Gynecomastia is primarily a medical condition, and exercise is not typically prescribed as a specific treatment, although reducing overall body fat through calorie deficit can help. Chest exercises may enhance the appearance of the chest muscles, but they won’t address the underlying issue of glandular tissue growth.

When to see a Doctor?

If you are worried that you are currently suffering from gynecomastia, check your body for the following signs:

• Pain, tenderness, increased sensitivity in your breasts
• Breasts appear and feel swollen
• Fluid discharge from one or both of your nipples
• Feeling lumps underneath the nipples
• Breast skin has suddenly dimpled

If you are experiencing one or more of these, it is best to contact a doctor or member of your healthcare team for treatment options and advice.

Are There Supplements That Reduce Bodybuilder Gynecomastia?

Regarding supplements, there are no FDA-approved options for treating gynecomastia. Some over-the-counter supplements claim to be effective, but their efficacy is largely unproven, and they’re not regulated like prescription drugs. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplement, especially for medical conditions like gynecomastia.

Are There Supplements That Reduce Bodybuilder Gynecomastia?

Are There Bodybuilders With Gynecomastia That Have Been Successful?

Absolutely. Gynecomastia is nothing to be ashamed of and there have been multiple different bodybuilders who built hugely successful careers while having gynecomastia. Take a look at a few of the biggest names in bodybuilding:

• Franco Columbu – Became Mr. Olympia in 1981, and dealt with gynecomastia throughout his career.
• Lee Haney – Won Mr. Olympia during the 1987 competition had prominent gynecomastia.
• Ronnie Coleman – One of the most successful in the sport, experienced prominent gynecomastia around his left nipple.

Choose Dr. Mazaheri for Your Gynecomastia Surgery

Understanding the causes and differentiation of gynecomastia is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, especially in bodybuilders where hormonal imbalances are prevalent.

If you’re worried about having bodybuilder gynecomastia, schedule a judgment-free consultation today with the premier board-certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, Dr. Mazaheri. We want to help you get back to your regular self, no matter the cause or reason. In your consultation, you’ll discuss treatment options that are best suited for you and answer any questions you may have. Our reliable team at Dr. Mazaheri will be there for you the entire time, from the initial consultation to your recovery.

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FAQs

How Does Gyno Feel?

In its early stage, gynecomastia can feel tender and sensitive around the nipple area. This sensation will persist as the condition develops. Another physical element is lumps that develop underneath the nipples. These lumps may feel tender or rubbery. The firmness of the lumps can make the person feel heavy or full in the chest.

How to Tell the Difference Between Gyno and Fat?

The defining factor is pain and tenderness. Fat won’t feel painful or sensitive, but gynecomastia will. Chest fat will also feel soft whereas gynecomastia will have a firmness to it. Gynecomastia is much rounder compared to chest fat, which may droop.

Diet and exercise also play a role in defining gynecomastia. If you have lost significant weight but the breast area is still enlarged, you have likely developed gynecomastia.

Can Bodybuilding Cause Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia in bodybuilders is primarily linked to the use of anabolic steroids.

How Do Bodybuilders Remove Gynecomastia?

Early-stage gynecomastia can be managed with prescription drugs, while fully developed cases usually require surgical removal for effective treatment.

Do Natural Bodybuilders Get Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia can affect men regardless of their bodybuilding methods, it’s most often associated with anabolic steroid use.

Can You Reverse Gyno From Steroids?

Research suggests that anti-estrogen drugs like tamoxifen can help reduce estradiol levels caused by the breakdown of anabolic steroids, potentially reversing gynecomastia.

Does Gynecomastia Go Away on Its Own?

It won’t go away on its own, but if you catch gynecomastia at an early stage, it may respond to certain prescription medications.

Can Gynecomastia Come Back After Surgery?

The recurrence of gynecomastia post-surgery depends on factors such as the extent of the procedure, recovery speed, and the intensity of postoperative training, which a surgeon should guide.

Will Liposuction Be Performed During Gynecomastia Surgery?

Liposuction may be utilized to remove any excess fat in the breast area. It is often combined with glandular breast tissue removal to completely reverse gynecomastia.

Will I Need Skin Removal as Part Of My Gynecomastia or Man Boob Procedure?

Yes, you may need skin removal as part of the procedure. This is needed if you have any excess skin around the chest area. Sagging skin is common if you lost a significant amount of weight or had larger breasts in the past. 

What Is Done With The Breast Gland Tissue That Is Removed During Gynecomastia Surgery?

The tissue is photographed and weighed. A tissue specimen is then sent to a pathology lab to be tested for any malignant tissue. A copy of this test report will be sent to you.

Will My Incisions Or Cuts Be Visible? I Am In Competitive Bodybuilding And Am Concerned About Noticeable Scars.

Fortunately, bodybuilders won’t have to worry about visible scarring. Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures which provide the cleanest scar possible. Additionally, the incision around the nipple is performed at the edge of the pigmented areolar skin and your normal skin. Any ¼ cuts on the side of the chest or armpits are for drainage and show very little visible scarring. 

How To Tell If You Have Gyno Bodybuilding?

The signs to look for include swelling of the breasts, tenderness or sensitivity of the chest area, discharge of the nipples, and feeling a firm lump underneath the nipple area.

Does Building Your Chest Get Rid of Gyno?

Unfortunately, building up your chest muscle does not eliminate gynecomastia. Chest exercises can even cause the condition to worsen as the developing muscles push the glandular tissues outwards, which gives the breasts a prominent appearance.