Based on my pictures, what grade of gynecomastia do you think I have? Mild or moderate? (photo)

You have mild to moderate gynecomastia. The fullness is not too bad, but you have some looseness of the skin. You are a very good candidate for SmartLipo liposuction which will remove the excess fullness and the internal laser portion of this procedure will help to tighten the skin. This can be done with a needle puncture in the axillae which prevents scarring on the breast.  The procedure is done in the office and does not require general anesthesia.

The male breast is composed of glandular tissue and fatty tissue. An excess in either type of tissue can cause the chest to take on the look of gynecomastia. Gynecomastia can affect men of all different body types. There are different types of #gynecomastia.#Normal Gynecomastia usually apparent in boy between the ages of 12 to 15 years old and older men 65 years old or more who experience a drop in their testosterone levels. This type of Gynecomastia takes about one to two years to regress on its own. #Pure Glandular Gynecomastia is particularly seen more commonly in body builders and is caused by steroid use. Surgical removal of the gland is required for treatment. With Adult Gynecomastia, fat deposits are apparent in the glandular tissue. This type of gynecomastia is the most common and doctors may recommend surgery for treatment of the condition.Adolescent Gynecomastia is hereditary and usually appears in 30% to 60% of boys between the ages of nine to fourteen. Many cases of adolescent gynecomastia resolve on its own as the boy grows into adulthood. Some may choose to undergo surgery to correct the situation, this usually happens at the age of 18 or above. In severe cases in young boys, the physician and child development specialists will need to speak to the parents regarding the severity of the gynecomastia and if surgery is an option before the age of 18. #Assymetric or Unilateral Gynecomastia appears in either one or both breasts at different degrees. In many cases one breast appears larger than the other. Surgery is a common treatment for this type of gynecomastia.#Pseudo-Gynecomastia is composed of adipose tissue instead of glandular tissue. This type of gynecomastia can be treated with diet, liposuction or surgery Severe Gynecomastia commonly affects those who have lost skin elasticity at an older age and those who have been obese or overweight at one point in their life and lost weight may have saggy skin and breasts that are severely enlarged. Surgery is the recommended treatment for severe gynecomastia. There are three types of surgical #treatment #options available that treat gynecomastia. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will recommend the type best suited for you. The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal #candidate.

Hello. Definitely the best approach due to your young age is a periareolar approach. Gland will not be removed with liposuction and therefore would be left behind if done as the only surgery. A periareolar incision on the lower areola borders will be the best way to visualize and remove all excessive fat AND gland. I also recommend liposuction on the surrounding breast mound in order to obtain an even contour and NOT leave behind a crater aspect. 

I appreciate your concern, but physical exam would be helpful. However, your photo demonstrates possibly mild Gynecomastia which is usually treated by liposuction alone. The scars are small and well hidden. Insurance may or may not cover it, depends on your policy. Check out the link below to an article about Gynecomastia, as you may find it helpful. Seek out a board certified plastic surgeon in your area, good luck!

Thanks for this question.There are different grading systems for gynecomastia. Having said that I would classify you as "moderate".There are different surgeries that can be done to treat this condition. In your case this would be determined after a physical examination. The surgery would at least consist of liposuction and likely some gland removal through one of several approaches.