If you have gynecomastia, you may wonder if it can go away with exercise. Unfortunately, gynecomastia cannot go away with exercise. The only way to get rid of it is with male breast reduction surgery. We’ll define gynecomastia, explain its symptoms and how it differs from pseudogynecomastia, and clarify whether you can work out after male breast reduction surgery.
Can Gynecomastia Go Away With Exercise?
No – gynecomastia is usually related to hormones or certain medical conditions. There is a related condition called pseudogynecomastia. The primary cause of pseudogynecomastia has been shown to be obesity. It makes the breasts appear more prominent, but the tissue underneath is fatty tissue – there is nothing firm to touch.
Gynecomastia Symptoms
Gynecomastia symptoms include:
- The physical characteristics of the breasts
- Nipples look swollen, inflamed, or puffed up
- Tender areolas, painful to the touch.
- Sensitive nipples.
- A firm feeling lump or circular formation of glandular tissue in the chest.
- There may be soft, fatty deposits beneath the chest in mixed gynecomastia.
Pseudogynecomastia symptoms include:
- Both sides of the chest have a breast-like appearance.
- There is no firm tissue under the chest, only fatty tissue.
Pseudogynecomastia causes fat to accumulate in the chest, common in overweight men.
Working Out With Gynecomastia
Working out is a great way to get rid of pseudogynecomastia, but it won’t do anything for true gynecomastia. Only male breast reduction or medication will treat true gynecomastia.
When Can I Work Out After Male Breast Reduction Surgery?
Generally, patients should wait about two to four weeks after male breast reduction surgery before they start working out again. They should wear compression garments while swelling goes down. They will visit their surgeon two weeks after surgery for a follow-up and to have their sutures removed.
Schedule an appointment to have your gynecomastia checked out today.
If you have questions about gynecomastia or male breast reduction surgery, please contact board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. York Yates, at 801-525-8741 to schedule a consultation today.