Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Gynecomastia is the growth of real breast tissue in men, caused by a hormone imbalance. It is common — especially in puberty and older age — and is usually harmless, though it can be distressing.
Puberty (very common; usually settles in 1–2 years)
Ageing and rising body fat
Certain medicines and anabolic steroids
Hormone imbalances, liver, kidney or thyroid conditions
It is true breast tissue, unlike fat-only “chest fat”
When to see a doctor urgently
A hard, fixed lump, one-sided growth, skin changes or nipple discharge — see a doctor (rule out breast cancer)
Rapid growth or breast tenderness
Gynecomastia with testicular changes
Use of steroids or hormone products
Usually benign — check unusual features. Most gynecomastia is harmless and hormone-related, but a hard one-sided lump or nipple discharge needs assessment (men can rarely get breast cancer). MedDroid gives general information, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What causes man boobs?
True gynecomastia is breast tissue from a hormone imbalance — common in puberty and older age, and sometimes from medicines or steroids. Simple “chest fat” is different and improves with weight loss.
Does gynecomastia go away?
Pubertal gynecomastia usually settles within 1–2 years. Persistent or distressing cases can be treated with medicine (early) or surgery.
When should I worry about male breast growth?
See a doctor for a hard, fixed or one-sided lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, or rapid growth, to rule out rarer causes.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.