Is gynecomastia normal in teenage boys?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 19-year-old boy. I have gynecomastia and no facial hair at all. I also have several acne on my face and my back and chest. I think I have a hormonal imbalance. I have attached a copy of my hormone test reports. My FSH level is low at 0.74 µIU/mL, but my LH level is normal at 4.96 µIU/mL. Please help. I have attached photos for your reference.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. I have reviewed the attachments (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Although your FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is slightly low, your testosterone and other gonadotrophic hormones are normal, so it does not make a difference. Usually, the FSH varies depending on the time it is tested. If it bothers you, then retest after one to two months. Your gynecomastia could resolve naturally in a year or two, as some males tend to have gynecomastia in their late teens. However, it normally resolves on its own in 21 to 23 years. Your facial hair shall come gradually as you are a late bloomer that is still having the effects of puberty.

Take it easy and let your body take its normal course. Regarding acne, you can take the following:

1) Clindamycin 1 % twice a day, along with Benzoyl benzoate 2.5 % topical gel.

2) Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment.

3) Proactiv.

You can take them until your face is clear. This will usually take three to six months.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

No, there is no need to be concerned because gynecomastia is common in pubertal boys and resolves by 21 to 23 years. You do not have to worry unless you are more than 23 years and it is still present, in which case you can have it removed by plastic surgery.