Gynecomastia is a benign (non-cancerous) condition in which glandular breast tissue in males enlarges. It is commonly mistaken for excess chest fat, but the condition actually involves the growth of breast tissue beneath the nipple area.
It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may cause tenderness or a firm, rubbery sensation under the nipple.
The root cause, in most cases, is a hormonal shift. Specifically, it occurs due to an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone in a male body. When estrogen levels rise relative to testosterone, breast tissue can begin to grow.
This imbalance can happen for several reasons:
Recognising the signs of this condition early can help you in choosing the right treatment.
These are some common symptoms of gynecomastia:
See a doctor sooner if you notice:
| Grade | Description |
| Grade I | Small amount of tissue enlargement, no excess skin |
| Grade II | Moderate enlargement, still within the areola boundary |
| Grade III | Moderate enlargement with excess skin, starts to droop |
| Grade IV | Marked enlargement with significant skin excess, resembles female breast appearance |
Physiological gynecomastia (occurring in newborns, adolescents, and older men) tends to resolve on its own. Pathological or drug-induced gynecomastia needs timely evaluation and treatment.
Treatment depends on the grade of gynecomastia, how long it has been present, and whether an underlying cause has been identified.
Observation and waiting: For adolescent boys in puberty, doctors generally recommend monitoring first.
Treating the underlying cause: If a medication or health condition is responsible, correcting that may reduce the swelling on its own.
Medications: In early-stage cases (within the first few months), estrogen receptor modulators may be prescribed. These are most effective when glandular tissue is still soft and responsive. They are less effective once the tissue has become fibrous.
Surgery is considered when:
While gynecomastia is a common condition, treatment should always be personalised according to the individual’s needs and underlying causes. At the CK Birla Hospital, we follow a multidisciplinary approach where plastic surgeons, endocrinologists, dieticians, and other specialists collaborate to provide personalised care.
We also offer:
For those looking for gynecomastia surgery in Gurgaon, the CK Birla Hospital offers a structured care pathway. Book an appointment to get expert advice and the right right treatment.
The most common cause is a relative increase in estrogen compared to testosterone. This can result from puberty, aging, liver or kidney disease, thyroid problems, certain medications , anabolic steroid use, or hormonal tumours (rare). A thorough evaluation usually helps identify the cause.
Gynecomastia can occur at any age, but it has three common age peaks:
In the vast majority of cases, no. Gynecomastia itself is a benign condition. Breast cancer in men is rare but possible, and it can sometimes present similarly. A firm, irregular, or rapidly growing lump, especially with nipple discharge should be evaluated promptly to rule this out.
Yes, in early stages or recently developed cases. If an underlying condition or medication is responsible, treating that may resolve the swelling. Certain medications can help in the early phase of gynecomastia. However, if the tissue has been present for more than a year or has become fibrous, surgery tends to be the reliably effective option.
