My teenage son’s breasts are enlarged. What can he do about them?

Q. My son is 16 and appears to have an enlargement of his breasts. He is embarrassed by it and would like to get it fixed. What is your recommendation and what exactly is it?

A. Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of male breast tissue, is relatively common during adolescence due to hormonal changes. In many cases, it resolves on its own within a couple of years as hormone levels stabilize.

If the condition persists beyond age 18, or if it’s causing significant physical discomfort or psychological distress, surgery may be necessary.

The best time for surgery is typically after puberty, around 17 to 18, when hormonal levels have stabilized and there is little chance of recurrence. Since your son is 16, it may be advisable to wait a bit longer unless the gynecomastia is causing severe issues.

Surgical options include liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue or a mastectomy to remove glandular tissue. The specific approach depends on the extent of the gynecomastia and your surgeon’s experience.

Risks and complications of gynecomastia surgery are generally low but can include infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, asymmetry or the need for revision surgery. There’s also a recovery period where strenuous activities should be limited.

Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in treating gynecomastia is essential. They can assess your son’s situation and help determine the best course of action and timing.

Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner in Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email questions to him at Cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com