Gynecomastia in Men: Understanding and Treating Male Breast Enlargement

One of the most common concerns I see in my clinic here in Dubai is gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement. It’s a condition that affects men across all age groups—whether in their teens, 30s, or even later in life—and while it’s physically harmless in most cases, the emotional and psychological impact can be profound.

What Exactly Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue. This isn’t just excess fat; it’s often a combination of fatty deposits and actual glandular tissue that gives the chest a more feminine appearance. Understandably, this can lead to significant self-consciousness. Many of my patients admit they avoid the beach, locker rooms, or even fitted shirts because of how their chest looks.

What Causes It?

Hormonal imbalance is the most common trigger. When estrogen (the hormone typically associated with female traits) levels are elevated in comparison to testosterone, male breast tissue can enlarge.

Here are a few common causes I explain to patients during consultation:

• Hormonal changes during puberty or aging

• Use of certain medications (like steroids, anti-anxiety medications, or heart medications)

• Medical conditions affecting hormone levels

• Obesity, which can increase estrogen production

• Recreational drugs like marijuana or anabolic steroids

Sometimes, gynecomastia resolves on its own—especially in teenage boys. But in other cases, it becomes a persistent issue that doesn’t improve without intervention.

Not All Chest Enlargement Is True Gynecomastia

It’s important to distinguish between true gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia. The former involves glandular tissue growth, while the latter is due primarily to fat deposits. The treatment approach can vary depending on which one you’re dealing with—which is why a thorough clinical evaluation is key.

The Emotional Side of Gynecomastia

This is the part that often gets overlooked. While the physical symptoms are visible, the emotional toll is often hidden. I’ve had patients who delayed social events, avoided gym workouts, or felt a deep sense of embarrassment in their relationships. Gynecomastia may seem like a minor issue to some, but for the men living with it, it can significantly impact self-esteem and overall quality of life.

Is There a Solution? Yes.

The good news is that gynecomastia can be treated effectively—and often permanently—through surgery. In my practice, I offer male breast reduction surgery, which is typically a combination of:

• Liposuction to remove excess fat

• Excision of glandular tissue to sculpt a flatter, firmer chest

For many patients, this procedure is life-changing. We perform it under local or general anesthesia depending on the case, and use minimally invasive techniques to reduce scarring. My goal is always to give you a natural-looking result that aligns with a more masculine physique.

What Is Recovery Like?

Most men are surprised by how smooth the recovery is. You’ll wear a compression garment for a few weeks, which helps with swelling and supports the new contour of your chest. Most of my patients return to work within a few days, and to light exercise within 1–2 weeks.

The final results start becoming visible within a few weeks—and by the 3-month mark, you’ll usually see the full transformation. More importantly, many of my patients describe an immediate boost in confidence, posture, and overall well-being.

Is It Right for You?

If you’ve been dealing with this condition silently, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to live with it forever. Whether it’s been a source of embarrassment for years or you’ve just started noticing changes recently, I encourage you to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to explore your options.

In our clinic here in Dubai, we’ve helped countless men regain confidence in their bodies and feel more at ease in their own skin. It’s not just about how you look—it’s about how you feel every day.

If you’re considering male breast reduction surgery or just want to understand your options, I’d be happy to meet and discuss a tailored approach for your case.

— Dr. Vikesh Vij

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon | Dubai