Many teenage boys go through changes during puberty. One common issue is the development of a puffy chest or enlarged breasts in males, which is called gynecomastia.
It can be scary, embarrassing, and confusing—but the truth is, it’s more common than you think. About 60–70% of teenage boys develop some form of gynecomastia during puberty.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
- The 10 most common reasons why teens develop gynecomastia
- What you or your child can do about it
- How Dr. Anmol Chugh, a leading plastic surgeon, helps teens deal with this problem safely and confidently
🤔 What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition where male breast tissue grows larger than normal. It can happen on one side or both sides of the chest. It may feel soft or firm and can be tender to the touch.
Gynecomastia is different from pseudo-gynecomastia, which is simply chest fat due to being overweight.
✅ 1. Hormonal Imbalance During Puberty
This is the most common cause of gynecomastia in teens.
During puberty, the body produces more testosterone (male hormone) and estrogen (female hormone). Sometimes, the estrogen level gets too high, causing breast tissue to grow.
What to do:
- In many cases, it goes away on its own within 6–12 months.
- Regular check-ups are important.
- If it doesn’t go away after 1–2 years, consult Dr. Anmol Chugh for evaluation.
✅ 2. Genetics (Family History)
If your father, uncle, or brother had gynecomastia, you might have a higher chance of getting it too.
What to do:
- Family history helps identify the cause early.
- Genetic gynecomastia may not go away with age.
- Surgery may be the best option in such cases.
Dr. Anmol Chugh carefully evaluates family history before suggesting treatment.
✅ 3. Obesity and Weight Gain
Extra fat in the body can cause pseudo-gynecomastia, where the chest appears larger because of fat, not gland tissue.
Obesity can also affect hormone levels, which can cause true gynecomastia.
What to do:
- Focus on healthy eating and exercise.
- Weight loss may reduce chest fat but won’t remove gland tissue.
- If gland remains after weight loss, scarless gynecomastia surgery is an option.
✅ 4. Use of Protein Supplements or Steroids
Some teenagers use:
- Protein powders
- Anabolic steroids
- Muscle-building supplements
Many of these contain hormone-altering ingredients, which can lead to hormonal imbalance.
What to do:
- Avoid supplements without a doctor’s advice.
- Talk to Dr. Anmol Chugh if symptoms begin after using these products.
✅ 5. Certain Medications
Teens who take medicine for other health conditions may experience breast growth due to side effects.
Some common medications include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Antibiotics
- Heartburn medicine
What to do:
- Don’t stop medication without talking to a doctor.
- Ask your doctor if a change in medicine is possible.
- Dr. Anmol Chugh reviews medical history before planning surgery.
✅ 6. Thyroid or Liver Problems
Diseases like thyroid imbalance or liver problems can disturb hormone levels and cause gynecomastia.
These are rare but possible in teens.
What to do:
- Visit a doctor for blood tests.
- Treating the medical issue may reduce gynecomastia.
✅ 7. Marijuana, Alcohol, or Drug Use
Teens who use marijuana, alcohol, or other recreational drugs increase their chances of developing gynecomastia.
These substances affect testosterone levels and increase estrogen activity.
What to do:
- Avoid all harmful substances.
- If breast swelling begins, consult a specialist like Dr. Anmol Chugh.
✅ 8. Tumors or Health Conditions
In very rare cases, a tumor in the testicles, adrenal glands, or pituitary gland can cause hormone imbalance and breast growth.
What to do:
- A medical exam and ultrasound can rule out this cause.
- Don’t panic—these are rare but important to check.
✅ 9. Stress and Lack of Sleep
Chronic stress, poor sleep, and even dieting can affect hormone production. This may lead to an increase in estrogen.
What to do:
- Get at least 7–9 hours of sleep daily.
- Reduce screen time at night.
- Practice relaxation activities like yoga or breathing exercises.
✅ 10. Delayed Puberty or Hormonal Disorders
Some teens have conditions like Klinefelter syndrome or delayed puberty that affect how their body makes hormones.
These can cause permanent gynecomastia if not treated.
What to do:
- Consult a pediatric endocrinologist.
- Early diagnosis helps prevent emotional distress.
💡 What You Should Not Do
- Do not hide the problem. Talk to a parent or doctor.
- Do not use online pills or creams. They don’t work.
- Do not feel ashamed. Gynecomastia is common and treatable.
- Do not delay getting help if the condition stays for over 1 year.
🩺 How Dr. Anmol Chugh Helps Teenagers with Gynecomastia
Dr. Anmol Chugh is a trusted name in gynecomastia surgery in India. He specializes in scarless gynecomastia surgery, especially for teens and young adults.
His approach:
- Full physical exam
- Blood tests and chest ultrasound (if needed)
- Discussion of treatment options
- Personalized care plan
- Scarless surgery under local or general anesthesia
- Short recovery time
- Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Parents appreciate his friendly and supportive approach, and teens feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
📋 Comparison: Gynecomastia vs Pseudo-Gynecomastia
| Feature | Gynecomastia (Gland) | Pseudo-Gynecomastia (Fat) |
| Cause | Hormonal imbalance | Weight gain |
| Tissue type | Glandular tissue | Fat tissue |
| Feels like | Firm lump under nipple | Soft, spreads over chest |
| Exercise helps? | No | Yes |
| Surgery required? | Usually yes | Sometimes |
Dr. Anmol Chugh identifies the right type before suggesting the best treatment.
💬 Real Stories from Teen Patients
“I felt weird taking off my shirt at school. I thought it was just fat, but it was gland tissue. After surgery with Dr. Anmol Chugh, I finally feel like myself.”
— Ravi, 16, Gurgaon“I didn’t know my protein shake was causing chest swelling. Dr. Chugh helped me understand everything. Surgery was quick, and I’m happy now.”
— Yash, 17, Noida
🧠 What Happens During Surgery?
- Takes 45–60 minutes
- Small cuts near side chest or underarm
- Fat and gland removed safely
- No visible scar on the chest
- Go home the same day or next morning
Most teens return to school after 3–4 days!
📌 Aftercare Tips
- Wear compression garment for 3–4 weeks
- Avoid gym or sports for 3–4 weeks
- No touching or massaging the chest early on
- Follow-up visits with Dr. Anmol Chugh
📞 When Should You Visit a Specialist?
👉 If the chest remains puffy after 1 year
👉 If it’s painful or growing larger
👉 If you’re feeling shy, anxious, or embarrassed
👉 If the chest feels hard or uneven
Don’t wait. Early help leads to faster recovery and better results.
✅ Final Thoughts
Gynecomastia in teens can be confusing and embarrassing—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether it’s from hormones, genetics, or lifestyle, there are clear solutions that help.
The most important step is to talk to a trusted expert like Dr. Anmol Chugh, who understands not just the medical part, but the emotional side too.
With scarless techniques, kind care, and world-class results, Dr. Anmol Chugh is helping teenagers across India reclaim their confidence—one chest at a time.