Understanding Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is characterized by an enlargement of the breast tissue in men, resulting from an increase in glandular tissue, fatty deposits, or a combination of both. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and often develops gradually, leading to a soft, rounded, or sometimes firm appearance of the breast area.
Gynecomastia can fall into two categories:
True Gynecomastia: Glandular Tissue Overgrowth
True gynecomastia arises from a hormonal imbalance when estrogen levels are elevated relative to testosterone. This imbalance stimulates the growth of glandular breast tissue, which does not respond to weight loss, diet, or exercise.
Even men in excellent physical condition can develop true gynecomastia due to hormonal fluctuations, genetics, or medication use. The tissue tends to feel firmer than fat, sometimes accompanied by nipple sensitivity or a small, disc-like mass beneath the areola.
Pseudogynecomastia: Fat-Related Chest Fullness
In contrast, pseudogynecomastia refers to chest enlargement caused by the accumulation of fat rather than glandular tissue. It’s often associated with weight fluctuations or general obesity and can sometimes improve with fat reduction methods like diet, exercise, or liposuction.
