In the Baltimore metro area, board‑certified plastic surgeon Ronald H. Schuster has treated many patients who face this issue. With his background in advanced treatment techniques like the Pull Through and Lateral Pull Through male breast‑reduction methods, Dr. Schuster helps men correct gynecomastia that may have arisen after prescription drug use.
Why Certain Medications Lead to Breast Enlargement in Men
Gynecomastia occurs when the glandular breast tissue in men increases, typically because the balance between estrogen and testosterone shifts unfavorably. Medications can alter hormone levels directly or indirectly, triggering breast‑tissue growth.
One systematic review found that drugs were responsible for approximately 10–25 % of gynecomastia cases.
Which Medications Can Cause Gynecomastia?
According to the Merck Manual, these are some of the most common types of medications that can cause male breast enlargement:
- Anti-androgens and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: Drugs like finasteride, dutasteride, and those used to treat prostate conditions or hair loss can disrupt the balance between testosterone and estrogen.
- Heart and blood pressure medications: Spironolactone, calcium channel blockers, and certain ACE inhibitors have been associated with hormonal shifts that may lead to gynecomastia.
- Gastrointestinal and anti-ulcer medications: Older medications like cimetidine and ranitidine, as well as some over-the-counter acid reducers, have shown links to breast tissue growth in men.
- Antimicrobials and antifungals: Medications such as efavirenz, isoniazid, and ketoconazole have been cited in clinical studies and case reports.
- Mental health and neurologic medications: Some antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and sedatives, particularly those that affect dopamine or prolactin levels, have been linked to breast tissue development.
Not everyone who takes these medications will experience gynecomastia, nor is this an exhaustive list, but the risk is well-documented across several drug categories. Persistent changes in the chest that last longer than six months may require further evaluation or treatment.
How Dr. Schuster Can Help
Medication-related gynecomastia doesn’t always resolve on its own, even after stopping the drug. When glandular tissue remains, surgery is often the most reliable option.
Dr. Ronald Schuster uses advanced Pull Through and Lateral Pull Through techniques to remove excess tissue with minimal scarring. These approaches involve small, discreet incisions along the side of the chest to access and remove firm breast tissue without the need for large cuts.
Men in the Baltimore area should contact Dr. Schuster to schedule a consultation by calling 410-902-9800.
