For millions of men, gynecomastia is a daily reality that affects their confidence, wardrobe choices, and even social interactions. From pubertal swelling to hormone-induced growth, the spectrum of gynecomastia is as diverse as the men it affects.
Let’s cut through the confusion and explore the different types of gynecomastia so you can gain the knowledge and confidence to take charge of your physique.
Main Types of Gynecomastia
Recognizing there are different types of gynecomastia allows healthcare providers to develop targeted treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific condition. With this knowledge, you can better understand your situation, prepare your questions for your consultation so that you can gain clarity on how your personalized treatment plan recommended by your plastic surgeon will help you achieve your goals.
Glandular Gynecomastia
Glandular gynecomastia (also known as true gynecomastia) is characterized by an actual increase in breast gland tissue, often resulting in a firm, rubbery mass beneath the nipple-areola complex.
This type of gynecomastia is typically caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly an increase in estrogen relative to testosterone. It also involves an actual increase in breast gland tissue and often requires surgical intervention for correction.
Men with glandular gynecomastia may notice a tender lump in their chest, which can sometimes be accompanied by nipple sensitivity or discharge. It’s important to note that this type of gynecomastia won’t go away with diet and exercise alone.
Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying hormonal issues and, in many cases, surgical removal of the excess glandular tissue.
Our New Jersey and Philadelphia plastic surgery offices are ready to help you in whichever gynecomastia phase or type you’re in! Because you deserve a body you’re confident in. Schedule a consultation now!
Pseudogynecomastia
Don’t let the name fool you; pseudogynecomastia can be just as distressing as its glandular counterpart. This type is primarily composed of fatty tissue rather than glandular tissue. It’s often associated with obesity or significant weight gain, as excess fat tends to accumulate in the chest area.
The good news is that pseudogynecomastia can often be improved through lifestyle changes. A balanced diet and regular exercise routine can help reduce overall body fat, including in the chest area. In some cases, there may be areas of fat that will not go away even with the best diet and exercise. In this situation gynecomastia liposuction procedures can remove these stubborn areas of fat as well as provide additional contouring.
Combination Gynecomastia (Fat + Gland Tissue)
As the name suggests, combination gynecomastia is a mix of both glandular tissue and excess fat. This type can be particularly challenging to treat, as it requires addressing both components simultaneously. Men with combination gynecomastia may notice a firmer area of tissue beneath the nipple (the glandular component) surrounded by softer fatty tissue.
Treating combination gynecomastia often requires a multi-faceted approach. This may include lifestyle changes to address the fatty component, hormonal treatments to tackle the glandular tissue, and in many cases, surgical intervention. A skilled plastic surgeon can remove both the excess glandular tissue and fat, sculpting a more masculine chest contour.
Gynecomastia Grades
Just as there are different types of gynecomastia, there are also varying degrees of severity. The gynecomastia grading system helps healthcare providers assess the extent of breast enlargement and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Grade I Gynecomastia
Grade I is the mildest form of gynecomastia. If you have Grade I, you might notice a small amount of breast tissue growth, typically localized behind the areola. There’s usually no excess skin, and the chest contour remains relatively flat.
For many men with Grade I gynecomastia, treatment may be as simple as monitoring the condition or making lifestyle changes. In some cases, particularly if the gynecomastia is causing significant distress, minimally invasive surgical techniques like liposuction or small incision glandular excision might be recommended.
Grade II Gynecomastia
Moving up the scale, Grade II gynecomastia involves a moderate enlargement of the breast tissue. The growth extends beyond the areola but doesn’t significantly affect the overall chest contour. You might notice a more noticeable “bump” or fullness in your chest area.
Treatment for Grade II gynecomastia often involves a combination of glandular tissue excision and liposuction. The goal is to remove the excess tissue while maintaining a natural chest contour. Recovery time is typically short, and most men can return to normal activities within a week or two. There are various types of gynecomastia surgery available, including glandular tissue excision and liposuction, which can be used alone or in combination depending on the patient’s needs.
Grade III Gynecomastia
Now we’re getting into more noticeable territory. Grade III gynecomastia involves significant breast enlargement with excess skin. The chest may have a more feminine appearance, and there might be some sagging or ptosis of the breast tissue.
Treating Grade III gynecomastia usually requires a more extensive surgical approach. This often involves removing excess glandular tissue and fat, as well as addressing the excess skin. Your surgeon might recommend techniques similar to those used in breast reduction surgeries to achieve a masculine chest contour.
Healthcare providers may recommend different types of gynecomastia surgery based on the severity of the condition, ranging from minimally invasive techniques to more complex procedures.
Grade IV Gynecomastia
Grade IV is the most severe form of gynecomastia. It’s characterized by significant breast enlargement, excess skin, and marked sagging of the breast tissue. The chest appearance is often described as feminine, and many men with Grade IV gynecomastia experience significant physical and emotional distress.
Treatment for Grade IV gynecomastia is complex and typically involves different types of gynecomastia surgery techniques. Your plastic surgeon will likely need to remove a substantial amount of tissue and skin, reposition the nipple-areola complex, and carefully sculpt the chest to achieve a natural, masculine appearance. Recovery time is longer for Grade IV procedures, and you may need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support healing.
Other Gynecomastia Types and Causes
While we’ve covered the main types and grades of gynecomastia, there are other forms that deserve attention. These types are often categorized based on their underlying causes or the age at which they develop. Understanding these variations can provide valuable insights into your condition and potential treatment options.
Pubertal Gynecomastia
Pubertal gynecomastia is caused by the hormonal roller coaster of puberty, with estrogen levels temporarily outpacing testosterone.
Most cases of pubertal gynecomastia resolve on their own within two years. However, for some teenagers, the condition persists into adulthood. If gynecomastia is causing significant distress or hasn’t improved after two years, it’s worth consulting a healthcare provider to discuss potential treatments.
Adult-Onset Gynecomastia
Just when you thought you were in the clear, adult-onset gynecomastia can make an appearance. This type typically develops after the age of 50 and can be caused by a variety of factors. Hormonal changes associated with aging, certain medications, and underlying health conditions can all contribute to adult-onset gynecomastia.
Adult gynecomastia can develop later in life due to various factors, including hormonal changes, medications, and underlying health conditions.
A healthcare provider can rule out any serious underlying conditions and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This might include addressing hormonal imbalances, adjusting medications, or considering surgical options.
Drug-Induced Gynecomastia
A wide range of medications can cause or exacerbate breast tissue growth in men. Common culprits include certain antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, heart medications, and anabolic steroids.
If you suspect your medications might be causing gynecomastia, don’t stop taking them without first consulting your doctor. Your healthcare provider can review your medication list and potentially suggest alternatives that are less likely to cause breast tissue growth. In some cases, simply switching medications can lead to improvement in gynecomastia symptoms.
Explore Your Gynecomastia Options with Dr. Adrian Lo!
If you’re struggling with gynecomastia, it’s time to take the next step towards regaining your confidence and comfort. To learn more about gynecomastia and treatment options, we encourage you to check out the My Gynecomastia Surgeon website.
Dr. Adrian Lo is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in treating all types and grades of gynecomastia. Whether you’re dealing with mild glandular gynecomastia or more severe Grade IV enlargement, Dr. Lo can help you with gynecomastia correction through a protocol tailored to you. Get started today!