How Can I Tell the Difference Between True and Pseudo Gynaecomastia?

Did you know there are different types of gynaecomastia you could be suffering from? Identifying the type that the patient is experiencing, is crucial to diagnosing the best form of treatment.

The question is, how can you tell whether you have true or pseudo gynaecomastia? Below, you’ll discover the main differences between the two.

What are true and pseudo gynaecomastia?

True gynaecomastia is the development of glandular tissue. It can affect one, or both breasts, and it typically requires surgery to correct it. Pseudo gynaecomastia, on the other hand, is a build-up of fatty deposits within the breasts, causing them to enlarge. This type of gynaecomastia can often be treated with simple lifestyle changes, rather than surgery.

So, both types lead to pretty much the same result, but the treatment options are very different. It’s also possible to suffer from a mixture of True and pseudo gynaecomastia, so a proper diagnosis will need to be provided.

Ways to tell which type of gynaecomastia you’re experiencing

Now you have a rough idea of what true and pseudo gynaecomastia are, the question is how can you tell which type you’re experiencing? Well, besides the enlarged breasts, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for.

Firstly, the feel of the breasts is typically different between the two conditions. If you’re suffering from true gynaecomastia, the breasts will tend to feel quite firm. You’ll be able to feel a well-defined disc underneath the skin of the areola. If you have pseudo gynaecomastia, the breasts will feel a lot softer, similar to a woman’s breasts.

That’s really the only difference between the two. A qualified cosmetic surgeon is able to quickly assess the breasts to determine which type you’re suffering from. They can then put together a treatment plan to combat the issue. If you’re diagnosed with true gynaecomastia, male breast reduction surgery will be the only option. However, this is a quick, straightforward procedure which provides long-lasting results.