For many men, the look of larger or swollen breasts are a common aesthetic concern. While it may seem like incorporating more push-ups or bench presses will fix the issue, can exercise really reduce the appearance of male breasts? Patients with gynecomastia may wonder if increasing their workouts can help give them the physique they’re hoping for, so it’s important to get familiar with the different types of breast tissue and gynecomastia to truly answer that question.
While there are three types of human breast tissue (connective, glandular, and fatty), there are two types of gynecomastia – pseudogynecomastia and true gynecomastia. Pseudogynecomastia is defined as excess fat in the breasts, meaning patients are more likely to struggle with obesity and see positive reduction from exercise and a healthy lifestyle. On the other hand, true gynecomastia is caused by the overdevelopment of breast or glandular tissue. This type is often the result of genetics or a hormonal issue, and can even arise as the result of certain medications or drugs, like steroids and marijuana. Glandular tissue is denser than fatty tissue, so patients with true gynecomastia won’t typically see reduction in breast tissue from exercise. The best course of action to address true gynecomastia is male breast reduction surgery.
The surgery to treat gynecomastia can be customized for a patient’s specific needs. The minimal incision approach involves small incisions along the areolar and/or within the armpits. Liposuction can also be utilized with this process to help sculpt the chest area. The traditional open-incision method includes removing fat, breast tissue, and loose skin. Reconstructive techniques are then employed to reposition the skin and areolas for natural-looking results.
At Premier Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, our board-certified plastic surgeon, John M. Sarbak, MD, understands how the appearance of enlarged male breasts can affect a patient’s confidence. He’s highly skilled in a variety of body contouring procedures and along with his professional team, prioritizes the comfort and safety of all of his patients. For more information on male breast reduction surgery, contact our office to schedule a consultation.