During puberty a boy's breasts may start to take on female characteristics. He may notice that his breast is tender and that a small area of tissue can be felt beneath his nipple. Usually this change is mild but sometimes the breast gets bigger and starts looking like a female breast.
Breast enlargement in boys may be caused by an imbalance of hormones during puberty.
Medicines used to treat depression, seizures, and other problems may cause breast enlargement. Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines or supplements your son is taking.
Symptoms may include:
Your healthcare provider will examine your child and check for other conditions that might be a reason for development of the breasts.
In most cases no treatment is needed. The tenderness usually lasts for just a few months and then goes away. The breasts usually get smaller. The condition seldom lasts longer than 2 years. It is rare for this condition to reach the point where your son is embarrassed about his breasts.
If a boy’s breasts are very big, possible treatments may include changing medicines that cause the problem, hormone therapy, or surgery.
Loose clothing may be more comfortable for your son than tightly fitting shirts.
Ask your healthcare provider:
Make sure you know when you should bring your child back for a checkup.
