Gynaecomastia and Chest Correction for Men with Male Breasts

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Gynecomastia and Chest correction for men with male breasts

What is Gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia is a condition characterised by the enlargement of glandular breast tissue in males. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and is caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, certain medications, genetics, and underlying health conditions. In some cases, excess fat can also contribute to the appearance of a fuller chest, although this differs from true gynaecomastia, which involves the growth of glandular tissue.

While often not medically harmful, gynaecomastia can cause physical discomfort and may lead some individuals to feel self-conscious about their chest appearance. As awareness increases, more men are exploring treatment options—including surgery—to address concerns associated with the condition.

Because gynaecomastia can have different causes and present differently in each individual, it is important to take time to learn about the condition and seek guidance from qualified professionals. Gathering accurate, evidence-based information is a valuable first step in making an informed decision about your treatment options.

Dr Mark Kohout, an AHPRA-recognised specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery, emphasises the importance of education and personal consultation. Based in central Sydney, Dr Kohout encourages individuals to learn more about gynaecomastia through trusted sources and open discussion with an experienced medical practitioner. To support this, his practice offers an informative resource pack that explains the condition in detail, outlines possible treatment pathways, and answers common patient questions.

If you are considering surgery, a personalised consultation is recommended to assess your individual needs, determine whether surgical intervention is appropriate, and discuss the expected outcomes and limitations.

Download Dr Mark Kohout’s Male Breast Reduction Surgery Guide

Hormones play a part in Gynaecomastia

Hormonal imbalance is a key factor in the development of gynaecomastia. In males, testosterone and estrogen work together to regulate physical characteristics. While testosterone is responsible for traits such as muscle mass and body hair, estrogen—though typically present in lower levels—also plays a role in male physiology. When this hormonal balance shifts, breast tissue may begin to enlarge.

There are several reasons why this imbalance may occur. Puberty is one of the most common contributors, as hormone levels fluctuate significantly during adolescence. In many cases, this resolves on its own as hormone levels stabilise. Excess weight can also lead to increased estrogen levels, since adipose (fat) tissue can convert androgens into estrogen, potentially encouraging the growth of breast tissue.

Certain medications and substances have also been linked to hormonal changes that may contribute to gynaecomastia. These include anabolic steroids, some prescription medications, and recreational drugs such as marijuana. These substances may interfere with the body’s natural hormone production, either lowering testosterone levels or increasing estrogen activity.

As testosterone levels decline—whether due to age, medication, or other underlying factors—and estrogen levels rise, the risk of developing excess glandular breast tissue increases. This condition can affect one or both sides of the chest and may cause physical or emotional discomfort.

If you’re concerned about changes in your chest area, it’s worth discussing your symptoms with a qualified medical professional. Gynaecomastia can have a range of causes, and a tailored approach to diagnosis and treatment is important.

Surgery can be a great option

Male breast reduction surgery is a highly personalised procedure so you need to consider if this is suitable for you. If you have come to the decision that it is right for you, it can be a great way to counter Gynaecomastia. This operation can be performed on healthy, emotionally stable men of any age. It is beneficial if the patient has firm and elastic skin that can be manipulated and can easily conform to the body’s new contours. Also, if the potential patient has worked hard at reducing the problem with exercise or doesn’t use substances such as marijuana or drink alcohol excessively, they might be a candidate for this operation. If you believe you fit these criteria, then head to Dr Mark Kohout’s Gynaecomastia web page for more information.

It’s important to be open and trust your plastic surgeon

Your surgeon understands that this can be a sensitive issue to discuss and therefore wants to make each step of the procedure as stress-free as possible – starting with the consultation. Please keep in mind when sourcing reliable information or enquiring about what’s right for you, health professionals, specialists or your surgeon should be your go to, as much as we love our well-meaning friends, they aren’t experts. Dr Mark Kohout begins the process by meeting with you for a one-on-one consultation, discussing all aspects of the procedure to confirm that you have a full understanding of what is involved and the possible risks and complications that can occur. Your enquiry and procedure will be treated with absolute discretion, and our staff will provide you with support throughout the process.

Gynaecomastia Before and After Images

Gynaecomastia is not only caused by excess fat

While excess fat can contribute to the appearance of a more prominent chest in men, it’s important to understand that not all cases of gynaecomastia are weight-related. True gynaecomastia involves the enlargement of glandular breast tissue, which may occur in males of any body type — including those within a healthy weight range. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, medical conditions, and even genetic predisposition.

Because the underlying causes of gynaecomastia are diverse, it’s not accurate to assume that only overweight men are affected. In fact, many individuals with a lean or athletic build can also develop noticeable breast tissue if hormonal imbalances or other contributing factors are present.

If you notice changes in the size, shape, or firmness of your chest, or experience tenderness or swelling in the area, it’s advisable to seek a medical opinion. Early assessment can help determine whether the changes are due to true gynaecomastia, fat accumulation, or another underlying cause.

Exercise won’t always be the answer

Regular physical activity plays an important role in overall health and can help reduce excess fat throughout the body, including the chest. In cases where a fuller chest is primarily due to fatty tissue—often referred to as pseudogynaecomastia—exercise and weight management may lead to noticeable changes in chest contour. This typically occurs when lifestyle factors, such as diet and reduced physical activity, are contributing to overall weight gain.

However, if the underlying issue is true gynaecomastia, where glandular breast tissue has developed, exercise alone is unlikely to resolve the condition. This is because glandular tissue does not respond to exercise in the same way fat tissue does. While strength training and cardiovascular activity can improve overall chest tone, they cannot selectively reduce glandular tissue—a concept known as spot reduction, which is a common misconception.

In cases where hormonal imbalance, medications, or other factors are contributing to breast tissue growth, non-surgical interventions may be limited in their effectiveness. If lifestyle adjustments do not lead to meaningful changes, surgery may be considered to address the glandular component and achieve a flatter, more contoured chest

The next step

If you have questions about gynaecomastia, treatment options, or would like more information tailored to your individual situation, Dr Mark Kohout and his team are here to help. With specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr Kohout can assess your concerns, explain your options, and guide you through what to expect at each stage of the process.

To arrange a confidential consultation or speak with a member of the team, you can contact the practice directly on 1300 551 151. We’re happy to assist with booking, general enquiries, or providing further information to help you feel informed and comfortable about your next steps.