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How Do I Know If I Have Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia, the development of enlarged breasts in men, is a common condition that affects many males, including both adolescents and adults. Often the result of hormonal changes during puberty, the overdevelopment of male breast tissue can also be caused by obesity, anabolic steroids, certain medications, marijuana, aging, and a variety of health issues.

The primary symptom of gynecomastia is the enlargement of glandular tissue in the breasts. Though most often occurring in both breasts, on occasion it may just be present on one side. There can also be asymmetric involvement with one side significantly larger than the other.

This overdeveloped tissue is often accompanied by extra fat for many individuals. In extreme cases, there may be a relative excess of lax skin associated with drooping of the breasts and cup sizes that can be a “C”, “D” or even larger.

Tenderness of the breasts may be present infrequently. It is extremely rare that this enlargement is associated with substantial pain.

If you believe that you have gynecomastia and are interested in pursuing treatment, you should consult with a reputable board certified plastic surgeon who could perform a thorough evaluation and discuss your available options. However, nothing short of surgery will definitively treat this male breast enlargement. Depending on your individual circumstance, the male breast reduction procedure can involve ultrasonic assisted liposuction and/or the direct excision of breast tissue.

The end result should be a more masculine-looking chest that you can be proud of and not self-conscious about.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD

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