Asymmetrical/Unilateral Gynecomastia

Breast asymmetry occurs when the breasts are not of equal size. In men, gynecomastia can include only one or both breasts.  Unilateral gynecomastia occurs when only one breast is larger due to gynecomastia, the other breast is typically normal in both size and shape.  Bilateral Asymmetry occurs when gynecomastia is present in both breasts, each to a different degree.  The amount of glandular tissue can affect the size, shape, and location on the chest wall of the enlarge area, the size of the areolas, and protrusion and diameter of the nipples.

Unequal or unilateral gynecomastia are not uncommon conditions. It is more significant when there are major differences between both breasts. In those severe cases, this type of enlarged breasts may cause extreme psychological and social anxiety that can affect all aspects of life and may cause an antisocial, less productive member of society. This large and unequal breast may also interfere with intimate personal relationships. Men who develop even mild cases of gynecomastia can suffer a huge blow to their self-esteem, including becoming depressed and not being able to function well in their day-to-day lives.

Like women, most men have breasts of slightly differing size and shape. Usually, the degree of difference between the two breasts is not severe. Through a study of my patients, I have found that more than 80% of male breasts are not symmetrical, but the severity varies greatly from patient to patient. Patients should take this into consideration and examine their chests prior to surgery.

In addition to correcting the difference on breast size, often the areola shrinks when gynecomastia excision is performed. In more pronounced cases, the areola may even be larger. When the glandular tissue is removed, the areola symmetry may improve.

The conditions that make up asymmetry can often be corrected to some degree. It is very individual and varies for each patient. Every prospective surgical candidate should discuss this condition with an experienced plastic surgeon prior to surgery. The plastic surgeon’s role is to educate each individual patient as to the possible degree of improvement that can be realistically achieved in his particular case.

Look at the before-and-after photographs of asymmetric gynecomastia below and note ones that resemble your own condition. These pictures will provide you a sense of the results Dr. Blau has achieved in unilateral male breast reduction surgery. Please be advised that each patient is unique and previous results are not a guarantee for individual outcomes.

As with all cosmetic surgery, results will be rewarding if expectations are realistic. With any surgical procedure, there are some risks which your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation.