Is this gyno or fat? (Photos)

Gynecomastia is the excessive growth of the gland or breast tissue causing enlargement of the male chest. In the United States 57% adult men and 36% young adult men have gynecomastia. There are several types of the condition and it is characterized by excess breast skin, excessive glandular tissue development and excessive localized fat. Unfortunately, the appearance of large breasts in men can cause a negative impact on self-confidence.     Types of Gynecomastia:  1- Normal Gynecomastia – This type is 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.    2- Pure Glandular Gynecomastia – This particular type of gynecomastia is seen more commonly in body builders and is caused by steroid use. Surgical removal of the gland is required for treatment.    3- Adult Gynecomastia – Fat deposits are apparent in the glandular tissue. This type of gynecomastia is the most common. Doctors may recommend surgery for treatment of the condition.4- Adolescent Gynecomastia – This type 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.     5- Assymetric or Unilateral Gynecomastia – This type of 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.   6- Pseudo-Gynecomastia – It is composed of adipose tissue instead of glandular tissue. This type of gynecomastia can be treated with diet, liposuction or surgery 7- Severe Gynecomastia – This type of gyencomastia 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.

Thanks for your question and posting your photos. Unfortunately, a physical exam is necessary to determine whether the heaviness of your chest is due to fat alone (lipomastia) of whether there is a glandular component (gynecomastia). You do appear to possess "heaviness" in your chest area and I suspect that there is a component of both fat and gland which is causing this. My advice is to seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in treating gynecomastia. Good luck!

Healthy male patients with excess breast tissue or unwanted breast development who have no underlying breast disease.Men who desire improved physical and aesthetic appearance should have realistic expectations based on their condition and the procedure performed. You should meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to be able to get a formal diagnosis and to be able to decide on a course of treatment if necessary.
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