Gynecomastia may go away on its own in some cases, particularly when it develops during puberty. When it persists, treatment depends on the cause and whether the enlarged chest consists primarily of glandular tissue, excess fat, or both. Medication or addressing an underlying medical condition may help for some, while persistent glandular tissue typically requires male breast reduction surgery to remove it.
If you’re a male with “man boobs”—a condition called gynecomastia—it can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort. You might find it awkward to remove your shirt at the pool or uncomfortable to wear tailored, slim-fitting shirts.
You’re not alone. Gynecomastia is a common condition, but understanding the cause of enlarged breast tissue is important before deciding how to address it. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about gynecomastia, treatment options, and male reduction surgery.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Over-developed breast tissue in males occurs for various reasons. It’s often associated with hormonal changes, including increases in estrogen during puberty or declining testosterone levels as men enter middle age. Although it may accompany weight gain, it often occurs in men with otherwise toned bodies. Other potential gynecomastia causes include:
- Certain medications, including some antidepressants, antibiotics, and heart medications
- Medical conditions such as hypogonadism, hyperthyroidism, or liver disease
- Use of anabolic steroids or excessive alcohol consumption
In some cases, such as puberty-related gynecomastia, the condition is temporary and goes away as you get older.
Can You Get Rid of Gynecomastia Without Surgery?
Whether gynecomastia can go away without surgery depends on its cause. Gynecomastia related to hormonal changes during puberty often resolves on its own. When an underlying medical condition or medication contributes to breast enlargement, treating the condition or discussing medication alternatives with your healthcare provider may help.
Pseudogynecomastia
In some men, an enlarged chest is caused primarily by excess fat rather than glandular breast tissue. This is sometimes called pseudogynecomastia, and losing weight may reduce the excess fat and improve chest contour.
Gynecomastia
True gynecomastia, however, involves enlarged glandular breast tissue. If this tissue persists and bothers you, male breast reduction surgery may be an option.
How Do I Know if I Have Gynecomastia?
Several symptoms are associated with gynecomastia. The most obvious is swollen breast tissue in either one or both breasts. Your breasts may feel tender or painful, with nipple sensitivity also present. You’ll also feel a rubbery or firm mass that extends outward from the nipple. If you notice these symptoms, you should consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis, as other conditions can mimic gynecomastia.
A medical evaluation can also help distinguish true gynecomastia, which involves enlarged glandular breast tissue, from pseudogynecomastia, which is primarily excess chest fat.
What Happens During Gynecomastia Surgery?
At The Wall Center, Dr. Simeon Wall Jr. uses a specialized approach that combines the SAFELipo® technique he developed with a minimally invasive procedure to extract glandular tissue. This approach is designed to limit scarring while creating a more defined chest contour.
SAFELipo is a unique liposuction method that’s particularly effective for gynecomastia because it allows for precise contouring of the male chest area, creating a more masculine appearance. The procedure involves a 3-step process that separates, aspirates, and equalizes fat. A form of power-assisted liposuction (PAL), SAFELipo uses a specially designed cannula to separate targeted fat deposits while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue. Done without force or the generation of heat, this unique method of fat emulsification further reduces the risks of trauma.
The fat equalization step is especially important in preventing contour irregularities, which can be a concern in traditional liposuction techniques. Dr. Wall also often uses a unique form of fat grafting he developed called expansion vibration lipofilling (EVL), reusing the fat removed with SAFELipo to produce a more masculine and muscular chest and shoulder appearance.
How Long Is Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery?
Recovery times vary, but most patients return to non-physical jobs within 5 days. You will need to avoid strenuous activities and exercise for about 2 weeks. You’ll likely wear a compression garment during recovery to minimize swelling and support your new chest contours.
Are the Results of Gynecomastia Surgery Permanent?
In most cases, the results of gynecomastia surgery are long-lasting. However, maintaining a stable weight and avoiding substances that can trigger breast tissue growth is crucial for preserving results.
How Much Is Gynecomastia Surgery?
The cost of gynecomastia surgery can vary significantly based on several factors, such as the severity of the condition, the surgical technique used, and the surgeon’s reputation and experience. After consulting with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, we’ll provide a price estimate for you to review.
Take the Next Step
Gynecomastia can significantly impact your self-esteem and quality of life. Surgery performed by a body contouring expert such as Dr. Wall can boost your confidence. Request a consultation using the online form or call us at (318) 795-0801 to schedule an appointment.