UK experts in Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast tissue, caused by an increase in glandular tissue beneath the nipple. It may affect one or both sides of the chest and can sometimes lead to swelling, tenderness or a puffy appearance around the nipple and areola.

Unlike simple fat accumulation, gynecomastia involves the development of actual breast gland tissue, which means the condition often cannot be corrected through exercise or weight loss alone.

Gynecomastia occurs when there is an imbalance between the hormones testosterone and oestrogen. While men naturally produce small amounts of oestrogen, a relative increase in this hormone can stimulate breast tissue growth.

The condition can occur at different stages of life, including:

• Infancy – due to maternal hormones passed to newborn babies
• Puberty – hormonal fluctuations during adolescence
• Adulthood – particularly in men over 50 as testosterone levels decline

For many teenagers the condition resolves naturally within a few years. However, for some men the enlargement persists into adulthood, which can cause long-term physical and emotional concerns.

Gynecomastia involves enlargement of glandular breast tissue, while chest fat (sometimes referred to as pseudogynecomastia) is simply excess fatty tissue in the chest area. Fat may improve with weight loss, whereas glandular tissue typically requires surgery.

In teenagers, gynecomastia often resolves naturally within one to two years as hormone levels stabilise. However, persistent cases in adults rarely disappear without treatment.

Exercise can strengthen chest muscles and reduce body fat, but it cannot remove glandular breast tissue once it has developed.

You may be a suitable candidate if you:

• Have persistent enlarged breast tissue
• Are in good general health
• Maintain a stable body weight
• Do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery
• Feel self-conscious about the appearance of your chest

The procedure is performed under anaesthetic, so you will not feel pain during surgery. Some mild discomfort during recovery is normal and usually manageable with medication.

Gynecomastia surgery typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether liposuction, excision or a combination of techniques is used.

Incisions are usually small and placed in discreet locations, such as around the edge of the areola. Scars typically fade over time and become difficult to notice.

Initial improvements become visible once swelling begins to subside, but final results usually develop gradually over several months.

Yes. The glandular tissue removed during surgery does not grow back. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps ensure long-lasting results.

If you are considering treatment for gynecomastia, you can contact Gynecomastia Health Centres to arrange a consultation with one of our specialists. We will assess your condition, discuss your goals and create a personalised treatment plan designed to deliver natural-looking results.