Is Breast Growth in Teenage Boys Normal? Understanding Gynecomastia and How to Support Your Child

When a 14-year-old boy’s mother noticed his chest appeared larger than usual, she was taken aback. Her son was active, playing football and swimming, and was not overweight, yet his chest size continued to increase.

As he became more self-conscious, he began to walk with his arms crossed over his chest and even wanted to wear larger clothes to hide his discomfort.

Concerned, they sought medical advice and learned that he had a condition called gynecomastia—breast enlargement in teenage boys.

Gynecomastia can be common among boys during puberty, though it can cause significant emotional distress.

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, often occurring in two life stages: newborns, due to maternal hormones, and adolescents (ages 12–16), due to hormonal changes.

Dr. Mohamed Hunais, a pediatric specialist at Aster Clinic, explained that gynecomastia arises from either physiological (natural growth) or pathological (related to specific health conditions) causes.

Dr. Hunais clarified that physiological gynecomastia is typically linked to hormonal fluctuations and often resolves without treatment.

Pathological gynecomastia, however, may result from specific health issues and requires a closer look at the underlying causes.

He also highlighted the difference between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, which refers to chest enlargement due to fatty tissue, often in obese individuals.

Causes of Pathological Gynecomastia

Pathological gynecomastia can stem from hormonal imbalances—such as elevated estrogen or decreased testosterone—or from health conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or testicular/adrenal tumors.

Certain medications and chronic health conditions, including liver or kidney disease, can also contribute.

Dr. Shahrzad Mojtabavi Naeini, a general practitioner specializing in aesthetics at International Modern Hospital, added that in many cases, gynecomastia during puberty resolves as hormone levels stabilize.

However, factors like obesity can increase estrogen production, potentially exacerbating the condition.

Managing and Treating Gynecomastia

Dr. Naeini recommended lifestyle adjustments such as maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise to help manage symptoms.

In some cases, medications or even surgery may be needed if the condition is persistent or causing severe distress.

The Emotional Impact on Teenage Boys

Gynecomastia can create significant emotional challenges. Dr. Salman Kareem, a psychiatrist at Aster Clinic, explained that boys with this condition may experience intense feelings of embarrassment and shame.

The fear of being noticed or ridiculed can lead to social anxiety, making it difficult for them to engage confidently with their peers.

Dr. Kareem noted that boys might avoid activities like swimming or sports, potentially leading to social isolation and missed opportunities for physical activity.

How Parents Can Support Their Children

Parents can play a key role by providing emotional support and encouraging self-acceptance. Dr. Kareem suggested helping children develop coping strategies for social situations and managing anxiety.

In cases where surgery might be considered, parents should seek professional advice to determine if it’s appropriate.

In schools, parents can collaborate with counselors to address bullying, ensure safe changing spaces for physical education, and promote awareness about the sensitivity surrounding gynecomastia.

By understanding gynecomastia and supporting children through it, parents can help them build confidence and navigate this challenging period with greater resilience.