Gynecomastia is enlargement of male breast glandular tissue. It is different from chest fullness caused mainly by fat, although both can occur together. Because the cause affects treatment, persistent or new breast enlargement should be assessed rather than treated on appearance alone.
Why gynecomastia can develop
Hormonal changes during puberty are a common cause and many cases improve over time. Gynecomastia can also be associated with ageing, certain medicines, anabolic steroid use, liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders and other hormonal conditions. In some people, no single cause is identified.
Chest enlargement related mainly to body fat is sometimes called pseudogynecomastia. Weight change can alter fatty tissue, but true glandular gynecomastia may remain even when overall body fat decreases.
What evaluation may involve
A clinician may ask about duration, tenderness, medicines and supplements, weight change and other symptoms before examining the chest. Blood tests or imaging are not required for everyone; they are considered when the history or examination suggests another medical cause.
Rapid one-sided enlargement, a firm fixed lump, nipple discharge, skin changes or a new unexplained breast mass should be medically assessed promptly rather than assumed to be routine gynecomastia.
Can exercise or diet treat it?
Exercise can improve fitness and reduce overall body fat, which may change the appearance of a fatty chest. It does not reliably remove established glandular breast tissue. There is also no specific “anti-inflammatory” diet or vegetable that has been shown to correct gynecomastia by balancing hormones.
When surgery may be considered
If enlargement persists, causes significant discomfort or concern, and an underlying reversible cause has been addressed, surgery may be discussed. The technique depends on whether the chest contains mainly fat, glandular tissue or both. Liposuction can reduce fatty tissue, while glandular tissue may require direct excision. Many patients need a combined approach.
The main gynecomastia treatment page explains surgical planning in more detail. Risks can include bleeding, infection, contour irregularity, scarring, nipple sensation changes, asymmetry and the possibility of further treatment.
Making a treatment decision
Surgery should be based on an individual examination and realistic expectations, not on promises of a perfect chest or guaranteed recurrence-free results. To discuss assessment or available treatment options, use the Contact Us page.