Does Smoking Weed Cause Gynecomastia?

by Miguel Delgado, MD | Aug 23, 2020 | Causes

Does Cannabis cause gynecomastia? The simple answer is not 100% conclusively, but there is a very strong connection.

A man holding a cannabis joint in San Francisco

In simple terms, gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue and often referred to as man-boobs or moobs for short. Male breast enlargement occurs due to an imbalance in the hormone levels of testosterone and estrogen. When the male hormone testosterone ratio decreases compared to that of the predominantly female hormone estrogen, then the body signals for creating excessive breast tissue in males.

What is the Active Ingredient in Cannabis?

The active ingredient in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been shown to reduce the level of testosterone in animal studies. The fall in testosterone is due to the effect of this THC in lowering the serum testosterone levels. THC can alter neural transmitters of the hypothalamus or that of CNS neural transmitters. Therefore, there is a reduction in testosterone produced by the testis’ Leydig cells (Harclerode, 1984).

Scientific Articles Investigating, Does Cannabis cause Man-boobs?

Although animal studies have shown an association, studies in humans have not conclusively demonstrated that Pot causes gynecomastia. A clinical study conducted on U.S. army soldiers found no significant difference between cannabis users and controls (Cates & Pope, 1977).

In another human study, 1215 healthy men Dutchmen between the ages of 18 and 28 were evaluated for Pot induced gynecomastia between 2008 to 2012. The study showed that regular marijuana users had a reduced sperm concentration by 52%, and total sperm count by 55% (Gundersen, et al, 2015).

Cuhaci et al. (2014) has shown that cannabis use can lead to the development of male breast tissue or gynecomastia; however, the mechanism by which it happens is not very clear. Nordt & DiVasta (2008) have shown that it is essential to inquire if they have a history of illegal drug usage when examining adolescents with gynecomastia.

Clinical Observation by Man-boobs Specialist

Dr. Steven Goldman, a plastic surgeon, has claimed that boys who are regular users of cannabis in their formative years, had a higher probability of developing man boobs later in life (Huffpost, Jan 2014). The transient effect of breast enlargement, which is seen in some boys reaching puberty, can become permanent due to pot use as their testosterone levels are altered by marijuana. Cannabis interferes with the healthy development in teen males, and it can lead to excessive breast tissue even after puberty than others who do not use it. Yet another plastic surgeon from Pennsylvania, Dr. Adrian Lo, who specializes in reducing male breast size, has stated that one-third of his male patients are frequent pot users (Huffpost, Jan 2014). Another gynecomastia specialist, Miguel Delgado, MD, has treated several thousand men with gynecomastia. He has observed a clear connection between Pot usage and gynecomastia. He states that it doesn’t affect all men, in the same way, and that the effect is dose-related or how much cannabis a person smokes. Also, when they start to smoke, rather it is during puberty or later in life.

With the state of Colorado legalized cannabis in 2012, there has been a boom in recreational marijuana. Legalization of Pot has led to an increase in the cases of male enlargement of breasts among 18-year-olds to 35 years olds. The number of plastic surgery cases has seen a jump by 8% in this state due to man-boobs (Grosman Capraro, 2019).

Which States that have Legalized Pot?

The recreational use of Pot or cannabis is legal in 11 states in the United States. The States include Alaska, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington. So, over time we will see what legalization of Pot has on the increase in gynecomastia cases.

Conclusion

Even though there is not 100% conclusive evidence, it is clear that there is a connection between Pot and man-boobs. We have present scientific articles and clinical observation by gynecomastia experts. We have also presented the spike is gynecomastia cases since Colorado legalized marijuana. More studies are needed, and with 11 States in the U.S. having legalized Pot, we will have more valuable information in the future.

References

Cates Jr, W., & Pope, J. N. (1977). Gynecomastia and cannabis smoking: a nonassociation among U.S. Army soldiers. The American Journal of Surgery, 134(5), 613-615.

Cuhaci, N., Polat, S. B., Evranos, B., Ersoy, R., & Cakir, B. (2014). Gynecomastia: clinical evaluation and management. Indian journal of endocrinology and metabolism, 18(2), 150.

Gundersen, T. D., Jørgensen, N., Andersson, A. M., Bang, A. K., Nordkap, L., Skakkebæk, N. E., … & Jensen, T. K. (2015). Association between use of marijuana and male reproductive hormones and semen quality: a study among 1,215 healthy young men. American journal of epidemiology, 182(6), 473-481.

(Grosman Capraro Plastic Surgery, 2019)https://www.grossmancapraroplasticsurgery.com/blog/can-smoking-weed-give-you-man-boobs

Harclerode, J. (1984). Endocrine effects of marijuana in the male: preclinical studies. NIDA Res. Monogr, 44, 46-64.

Huffpost (Jan 2014) retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/marijuana-man-boobs_n_4392617

Nordt, C. A., & DiVasta, A. D. (2008). Gynecomastia in adolescents. Current opinion in pediatrics, 20(4), 375-382.

Busting Common Gynecomastia Myths

by Miguel Delgado, MD | Aug 14, 2020 | Myths

Can only overweight men get man boobs? Is it a sign of breast cancer? I set the record straight on common gynecomastia myth, and separate fact from fiction.

Man boobs, or gynecomastia, can be a confidence killer. But it’s not the end of the world.

Gynecomastia, or the development of man boobs and excess glandular tissues, can occur when there is a hormonal imbalance or low testosterone levels in men. Being a naturally occurring hormone, testosterone is not only directly responsible for a man’s physical features but also his sex drive and mood.

To help you learn more about gynecomastia – and finally say goodbye to your man boobs – here are some answers you need.

Gynecomastia Myth #1: Only Overweight Men Can Get Gynecomastia

Fact: When there is hormonal imbalance, gynecomastia can strike males of all ages – from infants, adolescents and teens to those aged 50 and older. However, the tenderness and swelling usually recede in a few months to two years, so it’s still possible for some – such as babies and younger males – to forego treatment.

These symptoms are not uncommon during puberty. However, should they persist upon reaching adulthood, gynecomastia surgery is the answer.

Other factors that can increase your chances of experiencing a hormonal change or imbalance, and thus gynecomastia, include medications or drugs, alcohol, ageing and other health conditions.

Gynecomastia Myth #2: Gynecomastia Is A Sign Of Breast Cancer

Fact: There is a risk, but it is rare. If you do feel any lumps or abnormalities, it’s good to go for a check-up. In most cases, gynecomastia will not pose long-term problems or complications. The effects are found to be more psychological due to the change in a man’s appearance.

Gynecomastia Myth #3: I Just Need To Exercise More To Get Rid Of My Man Boobs

Fact: If you’re only dealing with pseudogynecomastia or fat build-up on the chest, there are workouts designed to build muscle and promote loss of fat. A healthy diet and a regular exercise programme that includes cardio and interval training, bench presses and weightlifting may help.

But if you have gynecomastia or excess glandular tissues, these lifestyle changes will not guarantee you losing the man boobs.

Gynecomastia Myth #4: It’s Hard To Treat Gynecomastia

Fact: Gynecomastia is often treatable. Not only does gynecomastia surgery work towards the permanent removal of excess glandular tissues, it also sculpts and defines the chest area with the promise of a short recovery time.

Gynecomastia: Knowing The Basics

by Miguel Delgado, MD | Aug 7, 2020 | Gynecomastia

While it may be every woman’s dream to inherit a set of well-sculpted breast, it is however, every man’s nightmare to find a pair of ‘man boobs’ aka Gynecomastia, hanging from their chests.

For most men, Gynecomastia robs away their self-esteem and has become a stumbling block in achieving the masculine male body.

But it is more than just the embarrassment of having a flabby chest that should be a cause for concern.

Gynecomastia is essentially a medical condition that should be addressed immediately.

And while many men may seek the gym for the solution to their unsightly bulge, unfortunately, the growing discomfort and swelling that stem from Gynecomastia does not simply ebb away with time nor hours spent at the gym.

Conversely, the soreness and pain experienced on a daily basis will be exacerbated with each passing day should treatment not be administered.

The main symptoms of Gynecomastia include the enlargement of the glandular tissue in both breasts and tenderness experienced around the area and nipple.

But what exactly is the cause of this distressing condition?

The truth is, there are a variety of reasons that contribute to Gynecomastia. Amongst the many causes are side effects of medication and aging.

Hormonal imbalance, where there is a plunge in testosterone levels, is one of the main culprits that results in this condition.

While symptoms of Gynecomastia are not uncommon during puberty, however, should symptoms not be alleviated upon reaching adulthood, surgical intervention is the answer to counter Gynecomastia.

Common questions on Gynecomastia

But to combat Gynecomastia requires more than just the acknowledgement of the causes of the condition.

A holistic and thorough understanding of Gynecomastia is what we need to tackle the ‘man boobs’ situation.

So, just what can we do to potentially diminish the effects of this agonising condition? Or is there anything that can be done to avoid Gynecomastia all together?

Let’s delve into these common and pressing questions to help answer your urgent queries on Gynecomastia.

Can taking hormones cure Gynecomastia?

Being a naturally occurring hormone, testosterone is not only directly responsible for the male physical features, but it also affects a man’s sex drive and mood.

Gynecomastia, or the development of larger breasts, can develop when there is an imbalance of the body’s hormones in men, including testosterone. This is also the case, when there is a low testosterone levels in men.

Both issues of low testosterone levels and gynecomastia are often treatable. However, it is of utmost importance to first understand the underlying causes for each condition.

Can gynecomastia decrease libido?

As age catches up, low testosterone levels and gynecomastia are common conditions among aging men.

With a decrease in testosterone levels, this results in reduced libido, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, and enlarged male breast tissues.

Are there any food to avoid that can cause gynecomastia?

Being overweight or obese can cause larger breasts in men. As such, avoid foods that are high in saturated fat as these contribute to undesirable weight gain.

Also, highly processed foods that are high in sugar and fats content can promote weight gain and should likewise be avoided.

Foods such as soy can cause hormone imbalances are to be avoided as they can lower the testosterone levels and raise the estrogen levels, thereby causing male breast tissue growth, even in the absence of obesity.

Can’t I just diet and workout to get rid of my “man boobs”?

Gynecomastia is not merely an aesthetic issue; it is a medical condition that should be tended to. The causes of the condition vary, including hormonal imbalance, side effects of certain medications and aging, as mentioned above.

Gynecomastia Surgery not only permanently removes excess glandular tissues, but it also sculpts the chest area, leaving a more defined and masculine appearance.

A gynecomastia surgery has a short recovery time, thereby causing little disruption to your daily routine.

It is essential to discuss your goals and raise any concerns you might have in regard to the procedure during the consultation with your doctor.

As individual’s clinical condition varies, the treatment strategy and outcome will be different. It is important to look for a doctor with an extensive experience, knowledge in gynecomastia surgery and that you get to see the before and after pictures of the doctor’s own patients.

For personalized information about gynecomastia plastic surgery procedures, please complete Dr. Delgado’s inquiry form.

Daddy-Do-Over is Gynecomastia Surgery and Liposuction

by Miguel Delgado, MD | Aug 6, 2020 | Surgery

Daddy-do-over is a new concept for men with gynecomastia. The “mommy makeover” has been a popular term for a long time. Although men do not go through the physical changes of pregnancy that women do, they do experience physical changes as they age, earning them such names as the “Dad Bod!” The phrase daddy-do-over was coined to describe gynecomastia surgery with liposuction of the abdomen and waist.

Due to busy lifestyles, men may find it hard to hit the gym when they have substantial work schedules and family obligations. A poor diet can take a toll on physical appearance, making Dad go from fit to flabby. Many men are exhausted at the end of the day and prefer to relax on the couch and watch T.V. Sleep deprivation can also show signs of aging. It is easy for the pounds to pile up, and if men do manage to lose the extra weight, the skin has lost a lot of its elasticity, and sagging skin may be the result.

RELATED: Lessons Learned from Bad Results of Gynecomastia Surgery

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that there were more than 1,300,000 cosmetic procedures performed on men in 2018.

The five most popular male surgical procedures were:

Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
Liposuction
Gynecomastia (male breast reduction)
Hair Transplantation

The five most popular male minimally invasive procedures were:

Botox
Laser Hair Removal
Microdermabrasion
Chemical Peel
Soft Tissue Fillers (i.e., Juvederm, Radiesse, Sculptra, or their own fat)

When men select to have a surgical procedure, they inquire about adding both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Adding procedures makes a lot of sense as there is only one recovery time, and there can also be some cost savings.

Popular Surgical Procedures with Daddy-do-over Surgery

Some of the procedures that men choose to combine are; gynecomastia surgery with liposuction of the abdomen and the love handles. Liposuction reveals underlying muscle definition. Some men who have lost a great deal of weight find that they have loose, saggy skin, tummy tucks aren’t just for women! Facial rejuvenation treatments mentioned above are often included. Rhinoplasty or nose reshaping procedures are frequently requested.

The Daddy Do-Over is increasing in popularity as men try to turn back the clock as women have. It has been noted that the Daddy Do-Over was a trendy gift for father’s day, but could also be considered for birthdays or holiday gifts.

If you are considering male breast reduction surgery, talk to a gynecomastia specialist.

How do I know if I have Gynecomastia or Pseudogynecomastia?

by Miguel Delgado, MD | Aug 2, 2020 | Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia affects 40-60% of adolescent males, making it a relatively common condition. Despite being so, it is not an openly discussed issue for the most part due to its “embarrassing nature” – a stigma that often overshadows its true and at times urgent medical condition. An individual should not feel discouraged from seeking help, as it can be a much-needed relief.

Gynecomastia is brought on by hormonal imbalance. The causes vary, which includes genetics and from the side effects of taking steroids for bodybuilding and medications for medical conditions. The latter includes medications for heart, stomach, and even mental issues. One interesting fact to note and remember – it is not a condition that is associated only with an obese person. Any male with predispositions as mentioned – such as genetics and medicine consumption habit/need is susceptible to the condition.

How do you know if you have gynecomastia?

Pain or tenderness, which may increase over time and swelling are just two possible telltale signs of gynecomastia. To the touch, it feels like a rubbery lump under the nipple affecting one or both. Indicative appearance includes a resemblance to that of a woman’s breasts.

Often, gynecomastia is confused with the expected presence of fat tissue, particularly among young men who are overweight. Hence, an accurate diagnosis and conclusion are best left in the hands of a qualified doctor.

How do you know if it’s Pseudogynecomastia?

An individual may conclude that given the possible telltale signs, they are suffering from gynecomastia. It could be a wrong assumption. They could, in reality, be experiencing what is known as pseudogynecomastia. Men, in general, tend to accumulate fat in the chest and abdomen regions.

When this fat accumulates in excess around the chest area, it renders a puffy and swollen appearance which is called pseudogynecomastia. Dr. Ivan Puah, our Medical Director who has treated a number of gynecomastia patients, observed that “most men who came in with complaints of pseudogynecomastia were shown to have true gynecomastia after medical assessment.” This reiterates the essential need to seek qualified assessment and help.

Does Pseudogynecomastia go away?

Pseudogynecomastia is breast enlargement caused by fat accumulation. In theory, the male breast fat tissues can be improved with exercise and weight loss. However, in many patients, male breast fat can be rather resistant to weight fluctuation, so losing weight may not lead to significant improvement.

Can VASER Lipo get rid of pseudogynecomastia successfully?

VASER Lipo, a tissue-selective fat reduction procedure, is the treatment choice for those suffering from pseudogynecomastia. During the process, small incisions are made on the area to be treated and infiltrated with anesthetic fluid. Subsequently, I utilize the Vaser probe that transmits ultrasonic sound wave energy to the targeted fat tissues to emulsify the stubborn fat. Once the fat cells are liquefied, they are removed via suction cannulas that are specially made for this procedure.

As VASER Lipo is tissue-selective, it only targets fat tissues, preserving the health of nerves, blood vessels, and other important connective tissues. Therefore, post-treatment recovery is easy with minimal downtime because only the fat tissues are targeted and removed. Bruising and swelling are minimized with this procedure. As VASER Lipo is a form of liposuction (albeit an improved form of liposuction), it can only be performed by doctors who are trained and accredited by the Ministry of Health (MOH) Singapore.

As a proven clinical treatment for pseudogynecomastia, many men have benefited from its results. While this is certainly good news for those afflicted with the condition, bear in mind to practice due diligence in one’s research when seeking help.

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