Classic Gynecomastia, Orange County

Classic Gynecomastia is the most common type of gynecomastia. In this case, the enlarged breast is a combination of excess breast tissue and an excess of fatty tissue.

Ideal Chest	Classic Gynecomastia

Notice how the enlarged breast rounds out at the bottom compared to the more horizontal orientation of the ideal male chest. The reason for the roundness is the excess breast tissue present which prevents the underlying pectorals major muscle (which has a horizontal orientation) from showing through. The excess breast tissue hangs downward, or sags, in a more round or tear drop appearance.

Ideal Chest	Classic Gynecomastia

The most revealing view is the oblique picture shown above. From this angle, you can see the increased projection of the chest especially at and below the nipple. Often, in this instance, the distance from the bottom of the areola to the chest fold is increased. In young men, the skin covering this distance usually snaps back, however, in older men it may not due to compromised skin elasticity.

Ideal Chest	Classic Gynecomastia

In the above picture, you will notice that the nipple and areola, despite being overly projected, are flush with the surrounding skin. This is what distinguishes Classic Gynecomastia from Puffy Nipple.

Classic Gynecomastia

In the diagram above, you see from an anatomic standpoint that Classic Gynecomastia is a combination of excess breast tissue (white) and excess fat (yellow). In most cases, the excess breast tissue is located directly under the nipple and those affected can often feel it by pinching the glandular tissue underneath the nipple. It feels firm and rubbery; much more firm and gritty than fat.

It is important to understand that EVERY man has some breast tissue located under the nipple. This is quiet normal, so having breast tissue is not a reason to have surgery. However, if you feel it is excessive and it concerns you, only then should surgery be considered.

In the lateral view, you notice the excess fat is located under the breast tissue and is dispersed within it as well. This excess fat usually spreads out over a larger area.

Ideal Chest	Classic Gynecomastia with an excess of both fat and breast tissue