GynecomastiaWhen it comes to male breast enlargement, figuring out whether it’s gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia is pretty important. These conditions might look alike, but they’re actually caused by different things.

Our staff at the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists are all about helping people understand what’s going on with their bodies and finding the best way to deal with it. We’ll walk you through the differences between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, and together, we’ll figure out the best plan of action.

Read on to learn more about these two conditions, and how each one may be treated.

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What is Gynecomastia & Pseudogynecomastia

Let’s first break down the differences between gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia, and how they cause male breast-related issues.

What is Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia is the excess of breast gland tissue, which leads to visible breast enlargement. This usually happens because of an imbalance of hormone levels, especially when there’s more estrogen in relation to testosterone. While it’s not physically harmful, it can have an impact on one’s well-being. This ultimately results in many people exploring gynecomastia surgery options.

What is Pseudogynecomastia

Now, pseudogynecomastia is more about extra fat in the chest area, which gives off a similar look to true gynecomastia. Unlike gynecomastia, which involves actual glandular tissue growth, pseudogynecomastia is closely tied to weight & excess fat.

Causes of Gynecomastia and Pseudogynecomastia

Although both gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia share similar visual characteristics, their underlying causes differ significantly.

Gynecomastia Causes

Gynecomastia can be caused by a range of factors, including aging, substance abuse (like marijuana or anabolic steroids), hormonal imbalances due to kidney or liver issues, obesity, natural hormone fluctuations during infancy or puberty, testicular problems, and certain medications.

Pseudogynecomastia Causes

Pseudogynecomastia is mainly caused by an accumulation of excess fat tissue, which is often linked to obesity. This key distinction emphasizes the significance of addressing weight-related concerns in managing pseudogynecomastia.

Treatment Approaches

The different underlying causes of these conditions also lead to distinct methods of treatment.

Gynecomastia Treatment

When it comes to treating gynecomastia, the approach often begins with addressing hormonal imbalances. This can be achieved through medication or lifestyle adjustments aimed at restoring the equilibrium between estrogen and testosterone levels. 

However, surgery can be required if conservative methods are unable to produce desired outcomes. Procedures such as the excision of excess breast tissue, often complemented by liposuction to sculpt the chest area, can provide significant relief, and restore a more masculine contour.

Pseudogynecomastia Treatment

In contrast, treating pseudogynecomastia primarily involves lifestyle modifications focused on weight reduction. Incorporating regular exercise routines that combine both resistance and cardiovascular training can help burn off excess fat in the chest region. Pairing these workouts with a balanced diet rich in nutritious foods can further support weight loss efforts and contribute to a leaner physique. 

Now, in the cases where lifestyle changes do not solve the issue, liposuction treatment can be applied to remove the excess fat and contour the overall chest.

Gynecomastia vs. Pseudogynecomastia FAQs

Let’s now address some common questions that come up when discussing these conditions.

Our physicians frequently employ the ‘pinch test’ as part of the diagnostic process to distinguish between true gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia. This straightforward examination serves as a valuable tool in evaluating the composition of chest tissue, enabling us to make precise diagnoses and tailor appropriate treatment plans for our patients.

Pseudogynecomastia can often be effectively managed through lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing weight. However, surgical procedures like liposuction offer viable alternatives for attaining desired results in situations where conservative approaches prove inadequate.

Just like with any excess fat accumulation, there’s a risk of pseudogynecomastia recurrence if healthy lifestyle habits aren’t upheld. Consistently prioritizing a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for preventing its resurgence and maintaining a lean, masculine chest appearance.

The timeline for resolving pseudogynecomastia varies from person to person, depending on individual factors like starting weight, adherence to lifestyle changes, and metabolic rate. By consistently following a structured diet and exercise regimen, individuals can expect gradual but sustainable improvement over time.

Pseudogynecomastia is widespread, especially in areas where sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary habits contribute to high rates of obesity. Research suggests that a considerable number of men globally are likely to encounter pseudogynecomastia at some stage in their lives.

Pseudogynecomastia bears visual resemblances to true gynecomastia, both featuring enlarged breast tissue in males. However, a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional is essential to accurately differentiate between the two conditions.

Book Your Consultation

Although gynecomastia and pseudogynecomastia may appear similar on the surface, their origins and treatment paths are different.

For accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment advice, you can connect with the staff at the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists to discuss customized solutions that restore comfort and greatly improve your quality of life.

If you believe you may be a candidate for gynecomastia surgery or would like to learn more about our services, we invite you to schedule an individualized in-person consultation and take the first step.

The Boston Gynecomastia Specialists covers the Boston area and beyond. Just some of the main cities of service include:

And don’t worry if you do not live in New England. It is also possible to arrange a virtual consultation for gynecomastia surgery, allowing you to speak with our doctors and get you started in the right direction.


The Boston Gynecomastia Specialists is the premier Greater Boston Gynecomastia Center of excellence. We prioritize delivering exceptional care from your initial consultation to your recovery and beyond. We deeply value the trust you place in us and are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care. Our team, led by Dr. Edwin Ishoo, a board-certified surgeon specializing in gynecomastia treatment, is devoted to achieving optimal surgical results for each individual. Recognizing that every person is unique, we personalize our approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you have questions or are ready to schedule your personalized in-person consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact the Boston Gynecomastia Specialists today. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Boston Gynecomastia Specialists
1260 Cambridge st
Cambridge, MA 02139
(888) 380-322