Gynecomastia vs. Pseudogynecomastia: Understanding the Key Differences
Many men experience chest enlargement and aren’t sure if it’s fat, glandular tissue, or something more serious. At Dr. Mordcai Blau’s office in White Plains, NY, we help patients figure out exactly what’s causing the change, and, more importantly, how to treat it.
Read on to learn more about what gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia are.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the medical term for the growth of actual glandular breast tissue in males. This often results from a hormone imbalance, especially increased estrogen or decreased testosterone. It can affect one or both sides of the chest, sometimes unevenly. Gynecomastia can occur at any age, although it is especially common during puberty, middle age, and older adulthood.
What Is Pseudogynecomastia?
Pseudogynecomastia looks similar to gynecomastia but has a very different cause. This condition is caused by fat accumulation (not glandular growth) in the chest area. It’s more common in overweight men who have recently lost significant weight.
There’s no hormonal cause behind it; it’s simply adipose tissue in the chest. This type is usually less firm and softer to the touch than gynecomastia.
Key Differences Between Gynecomastia and Pseudogynecomastia
The biggest difference between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia comes down to what’s behind the chest enlargement. Gynecomastia is caused by excess glandular tissue, while pseudogynecomastia is due to fat buildup. This matters because treatment will depend on the type of tissue involved.
Diagnosis: How to Know Which One You Have
To confirm the diagnosis, you’ll need a physical exam and possibly imaging tests. In White Plains, NY, an experienced surgeon like Dr. Mordcai Blau, M.D., P.C., can perform this evaluation. Sometimes, a mammogram or ultrasound may be recommended to check tissue type. Understanding your condition helps decide whether fat removal, gland removal, or both are necessary.
Treatment Options
For gynecomastia, treatment often includes surgical removal of glandular tissue. This may be combined with liposuction to address any surrounding fat. For pseudogynecomastia treatment in White Plains, NY, liposuction alone may be enough. Many patients in White Plains choose to review real surgical outcomes in our male breast reduction before & after gallery to understand what to expect.
Why Choosing the Right Surgeon Matters
Experience and precision are key to achieving natural-looking results. Dr. Mordcai Blau, M.D., P.C., offers advanced gynecomastia treatment in White Plains, New York, tailored to each patient. He has performed thousands of male breast reduction surgeries and understands the nuances between both conditions.
Book an Appointment
If you are unsure whether you have gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia, start with a consultation. Contact Dr. Mordcai Blau, M.D., P.C. in White Plains, NY today to schedule your appointment. Get clarity, answers, and the treatment plan that fits your needs best.