Gynaecomastia
Swelling in male breasts
Gynaecomastia (also known as ‘man boobs’) is a non-cancerous swelling of the male breasts to a larger than normal size.
What is gynaecomastia?
Need to know
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What are the symptoms and causes of gynaecomastia? icon plus
Gynaecomastia is a term to describe the swelling of the male breasts. It can affect men in other ways, including:
- puffy nipples
- sagging breast skin excess
The main causes are:
- hormonal imbalance – more oestrogen than testosterone is produced
- weight – obesity can make the male body create more oestrogen
- age – it is more common during puberty and older age, when testosterone levels can drop
Less common causes include: ill health, medication side effects, alcohol and drug use.
Gynaecomastia is generally not a painful condition, but it can cause some tenderness. Many men find the condition embarrassing, causing stress and anxiety. -
How is gynaecomastia diagnosed? icon plus
It's important to see your GP or consultant if you are worried about breast tissue growth.
The main method of diagnosing gynaecomastia is through a physical examination. Occasionally other tests, such as an X-ray, mammogram, fine needle aspiration or a core biopsy of breast tissue may also be used.
Many men find it hard to talk to a doctor about gynaecomastia. At HCA UK, our consultants understand the importance of your privacy and dignity and all examinations are carried out with utmost discretion. -
Private Gynaecomastia Treatment icon plus
As gynaecomastia is harmless, many men simply live with the condition. Others grow out of it with age or lose weight to help the condition. Sometimes, medication can help to adjust a hormonal imbalance.
For some men, breast reduction surgery is the best solution. This is generally done under general anaesthetic and usually involves moving your nipple, removing excess tissue (often with liposuction) and skin and reshaping your chest.
Our surgeons, with their expert knowledge of breast surgery, reconstruction and plastic surgery, understand how crucial it is that patients are provided with options and will discuss the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Our consultants
Our locations
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344