Gynecomastia: Causes, Assessment and Treatment Options

Gynecomastia is enlargement of male breast gland tissue. It can affect one or both sides and may occur with tenderness. Chest fullness can also be mainly fat or, less commonly, another condition, so diagnosis should precede cosmetic treatment.

Causes and assessment

Hormonal change, medicines, substances and some health conditions can contribute. Assessment may include history, examination of the chest and testicles, medicine review and selected blood tests or imaging. A hard or one-sided lump, nipple discharge, skin change or enlarged lymph node needs prompt medical assessment.

Treatment options

Options depend on cause, duration and symptoms and may include observation, changing a contributing medicine only with the prescriber, treatment of an underlying condition, weight management, liposuction for suitable fat, gland excision or combined surgery.

Surgical risks

Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, contour irregularity, asymmetry, altered nipple sensation, scarring, skin or nipple injury, blood clots, dissatisfaction and revision. A flat or perfectly symmetrical chest cannot be promised.

The NCBI clinical overview discusses causes and evaluation. See Revitalize’s male chest reduction information, named doctors and assessment route.