Fatty Gynecomastia is also sometimes referred to in the medical community as Pseudo-Gynecomastia.
The “definition” for gynecomastia that is primarily caused by excess fat is called Pseudo-Gynecomastia. Weight loss is typically recommended as the best solution for Fatty Gynecomastia, however in some cases diet and exercise is not enough. This is frequently the case when men have “love handles,” as well as fatty gynecomastia or pseudo-gynecomastia, because the combination of these two areas do not respond well to weight loss. Even when a man is at an ideal body weight, the body can still accumulate excess fat in these areas. Weight loss is still the recommended first option prior to pursuing surgical options.
In Dr. Cruise’s experience this tends to be the most common question asked by patients who have done their research on fatty gynecomastia. The answer will vary from surgeon to surgeon. Some surgeons will tell you liposuction alone will take care of the problem. Others believe that breast tissue removal is also necessary. The truth is: It depends!
In the above pictures, we show the main differences between Classic Gynecomastia and Fatty Gynecomastia. The right side of each picture is virtually identical. The gynecomastia looks essentially the same on the outside. Now take a look at the cut-out view on the left side of each chest. Notice the Fatty Gynecomastia has much more fatty tissue (represented in yellow) than Classic Gynecomastia. You will also notice more glandular tissue (shown in white) with Classic Gynecomastia versus Fatty Gynecomastia. You can see that although the overall shape appears to the same, the underlying causes are not identical. This is the reason some types of gynecomastia can only be determined at the time of surgery, which in turn determines what surgical approach should be used.
Liposuction alone works well to eliminate Fatty Gynecomastia, but leaves excess breast tissue behind, which causes Classic Gynecomastia. Removing excess fat from Classic Gynecomastia may turn the chest into a smaller chest with Puffy Nipples. This is why it’s important to seek out an experienced gynecomastia surgeon. If the gynecomastia is not treated appropriately, it could result in continued issues after surgery.
Classic Gynecomastia
Fatty Gynecomastia
Classic Gynecomastia
Fatty Gynecomastia
