Are moobs genetic?

Could moobs be passed on genetically? If the men in your family have all suffered from man boobs, it’s understandable you’d be a little worried that you’ll get them too. A lot of conditions are known to be genetic, but are moobs one of them?

While it’s certainly possible moobs could be hereditary, it’s actually pretty rare for genetics to be the cause. Here, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the cause of moobs, or gynaecomastia as it’s medically known.

Understanding the different causes of gynaecomastia

There’s a surprising number of causes of gynaecomastia, though the most common include:

• Old age
• Puberty
• Medical issues and medication

Age is perhaps the most common cause of gynaecomastia. As men age, their testosterone levels begin to drop. The hormonal changes within the body can, in turn, spark additional breast tissue growth. Men aged 60 and over are more susceptible to the condition, but it can also strike during puberty too.

When puberty strikes, it again causes significant hormonal changes within the body. Not only do testosterone hormone levels increase, but so too does the female hormone Oestrogen. If there’s more estrogen than there is testosterone, the breasts will begin to grow larger. Puberty-related gynaecomastia is usually temporary, and the breasts will begin to flatten out by the age of 19. However, in some cases treatment may be required.

Medical issues can also contribute to the condition, such as Hyperthyroidism. It’s also thought that approximately 10%-20% of cases are caused by medications such as anti-depressants and antibiotics.

There is a very small chance genetics could cause gynaecomastia, but it’s more likely the condition will be triggered by something else.

What’s the difference between true and pseudo-gynaecomastia?

When most people think of man boobs, they typically associate it with additional fat. However, gynaecomastia is actually the development of breast tissue, not fat. Moobs which are caused by additional fat build-up, are referred to as pseudo-gynecomastia.

The main difference between the two is that true gynaecomastia is caused by hormonal tissue growth, whilst pseudo gynaecomastia is caused by adipose tissue, often triggered by obesity. Both types of the condition result in moobs, it’s just the cause that’s different.

Regardless of what causes moobs to develop, successful treatments are available. Compression garments can be worn both before, or after surgical treatment. In some cases, male breast reduction surgery may not even be required; particularly if the problem is more pseudo gynaecomastia related.

If you’re looking to eliminate your moobs, book a consultation today to discover which treatment option is right for you.