As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I see many men frustrated by stubborn chest fullness that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. While this can sometimes be due to fat accumulation (pseudo gynecomastia), true gynecomastia is caused by an overdevelopment of glandular breast tissue, and the treatment approaches differ accordingly. Learn more about gynecomastia vs. fat below.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement of male breast tissue. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and often presents during puberty; however, it can also develop later in life due to hormonal changes, certain medications, or lifestyle factors. Common gynecomastia symptoms include:
- A rubbery or firm mound of tissue under the nipple
- Tenderness or sensitivity in the chest
- Symmetrical or asymmetrical chest fullness
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s worth discussing your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers gynecomastia treatment. This condition is common and treatable, often with life-changing results.
What About Chest Fat?
Sometimes, enlarged male breasts are the result of excess fat alone. This is particularly common in men who carry extra weight in general. Unlike gynecomastia, fat-related fullness tends to feel soft and isn’t typically associated with discomfort or glandular tissue beneath the nipple. However, even men at a healthy weight can struggle with stubborn chest fat due to genetics or body composition.
The good news is that both conditions are highly treatable with cosmetic surgery for men, tailored to your unique anatomy.
Treatment Options for a More Sculpted Chest
The most effective solution for true gynecomastia is gynecomastia surgery. This outpatient procedure involves excising the glandular tissue and, in many cases, performing liposuction to remove excess fat for a smooth, natural-looking contour. Recovery is typically quick, and most patients return to work within a week.
If the fullness is primarily due to fat, liposuction alone may be sufficient. This minimally invasive option removes fat through small incisions using a cannula, offering impressive sculpting capabilities with minimal downtime.
Not sure which option is right for you? In your consultation, we’ll evaluate your anatomy and goals to recommend the most appropriate surgical plan. Learn more about what questions to ask before undergoing body contouring surgery in our related blog post.
Reclaim Your Confidence With a Male Breast Reduction
Whether you’re dealing with gynecomastia or persistent fat in the chest, you don’t have to accept it as permanent. At CaloAesthetics®, we specialize in plastic surgery for men and offer advanced treatments to help you feel confident in your appearance again.
If you’re ready to learn more about gynecomastia treatment or liposuction, I invite you to request a consultation online or call our office at (502) 899-9979 to schedule your visit.
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