For many men, gynaecomastia isn’t just a physical concern—it’s a source of embarrassment, confusion, and silent suffering. The condition, often misunderstood as simply “man boobs”, carries a social stigma that leads many to feel isolated or ashamed. From gym myths to false internet cures, misinformation about male breast enlargement is everywhere.
At Orange Tree Health Clinic, the best gynaecomastia clinic in Delhi, our goal is to cut through the noise. In this article, we’ll separate myths from facts, help you understand what really causes gynaecomastia, and guide you through effective, medically backed solutions—so you can make informed decisions without shame or fear.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast glandular tissue due to an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone hormones. This condition can affect men of all ages and body types.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), gynecomastia is common during infancy, adolescence, and in older men, often linked to natural hormonal fluctuations.
Myth 1: Gynecomastia Only Affects Overweight Men
The fact is gynaecomastia can affect males of all body types, including those who are physically fit.
Many people wrongly assume that male breast enlargement is simply the result of excess body fat. However, true gynaecomastia is caused by an imbalance between estrogen and testosterone—a hormonal shift that can happen irrespective of body weight. This means even lean, muscular men can develop glandular tissue beneath their nipples. According to experts, factors like puberty, ageing, thyroid disorders, or certain medications can trigger gynaecomastia in men who are not overweight.
Myth 2: Gynecomastia is Just Excess Fat
The truth is that gynaecomastia involves glandular tissue, not just fat.
What appears to be “extra fat” in the chest could actually be glandular enlargement, especially when the tissue feels firm or rubbery under the skin. This is what distinguishes gynaecomastia from pseudogynecomastia, which is fat accumulation due to obesity. The specialists explain that only a trained doctor can differentiate between the two using a physical exam and sometimes imaging tests. Correct diagnosis is crucial—treating fat with exercise won’t work if the underlying issue is glandular.
Myth 3: Exercise and Diet Can Eliminate Gynecomastia
In reality, while lifestyle changes can reduce fat, they may not address glandular tissue enlargement.
If you’ve been hitting the gym and dieting hard but see no change in your chest contour, you’re not alone. Many patients with true gynaecomastia do not respond to fat loss efforts because the issue lies in the glandular tissue. Surgical options like liposuction or gland excision are often needed for permanent correction. At Orange Tree Health Clinic, we assess each case individually to determine if non-surgical hormonal management or surgery is the better route.
Myth 4: Gynecomastia is Rare (Not Common)
The fact is that gynaecomastia is surprisingly common, especially during puberty and ageing.
It’s estimated that up to 70% of adolescent boys experience some degree of gynaecomastia during puberty due to hormonal changes. In most cases, this resolves within a year. Among adult men, the prevalence is also significant—about 30–40% of older males are affected, particularly due to declining testosterone levels and increased body fat, which promotes estrogen production. So if you’re struggling, you’re far from alone—and effective help is available.
Myth 5: Surgery is the Only Treatment Option
Actually, treatment of gynecomastia depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, hormone therapy, or surgery.
Not every case requires the operating room. Mild gynecomastia caused by medications or hormonal imbalances may be reversed by stopping the trigger or through medical therapy. Surgery becomes the go-to when the glandular tissue is well-developed or when other treatments fail. At Orange Tree Health Clinic, we create personalised plans that may include lifestyle guidance, endocrinological evaluation, or minimally invasive surgery, depending on what’s best for the patient.
Myth 6: Gynecomastia is Always Caused by Steroid Use
It’s totally wrong. Steroids are just one of many potential triggers.
While anabolic steroids are a known cause, they’re far from the only one. Gynaecomastia can also be triggered by:
- Prescription medications (e.g., anti-androgens, antidepressants)
- Medical conditions (like liver or kidney disease)
- Substance use (alcohol, marijuana)
- Natural hormonal shifts (especially in puberty or aging)
That’s why self-diagnosis isn’t recommended—comprehensive evaluation at a specialised gynaecomastia clinic in Delhi like Orange Tree Health Clinic is essential.
Myth 7: Gynecomastia is Just a Cosmetic Issue
The truth is that gynaecomastia can cause deep emotional and psychological distress.
It’s more than just appearance—gynaecomastia can impact self-esteem, confidence, and even social life. Many men report avoiding swimming, gym changing rooms, or intimate relationships due to embarrassment. The emotional burden is real and should never be dismissed. At Orange Tree Health Clinic, we prioritise both physical correction and emotional wellness, supporting patients through every step of their treatment journey.
Final Thoughts & Next Step
Gynecomastia is often misunderstood, leading many men to suffer in silence. From assuming it only affects overweight individuals to believing that diet alone can fix it, these myths can delay proper care. In reality, gynecomastia treatment in Delhi requires a clear diagnosis and tailored approach—because not all cases are alike. At Orange Tree Health Clinic, our team debunks misinformation and offers medically sound solutions, whether it’s hormonal management or surgery. If you or a loved one is experiencing male breast enlargement, don’t rely on guesswork. Consult our specialists today for a confidential, expert-led evaluation and a path to confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions – Gynecomastia Treatment
Here are further few questions that are answered to strengthen your overall knowledge and awareness in gynaecomastia treatment.
1. Is gynaecomastia reversible without surgery?
Yes, in certain cases. If gynaecomastia is caused by puberty, medication side effects, or hormonal imbalances, it may resolve naturally or through medical management. However, once glandular tissue becomes permanent, surgery is usually the only definitive solution. A proper evaluation at Orange Tree Health Clinic can help determine the best course of action for you.
2. How to differentiate between chest fat and gynaecomastia?
Gynaecomastia is caused by the growth of glandular breast tissue, while chest fat is simply adipose tissue from weight gain. If you feel a firm, rubbery lump beneath the nipple, it’s likely gynaecomastia. Chest fat, on the other hand, feels soft and spreads evenly across the chest. A clinical diagnosis by our specialists ensures clarity and the right treatment path.
3. What age does gynaecomastia go away?
In most adolescent cases, gynaecomastia develops during puberty and resolves naturally by age 16–18. If it persists beyond two years or appears in adulthood, it’s less likely to go away on its own. Persistent cases should be examined by an expert for timely intervention.
4. Does gynaecomastia surgery leave scars?
Modern gynaecomastia surgery involves minimal incisions, often hidden around the edge of the areola. At Orange Tree Health Clinic, we use advanced techniques that reduce scarring and promote fast healing. Most patients report barely noticeable marks within a few months of recovery.
5. Where can I find affordable gynaecomastia treatment in Delhi?
Orange Tree Health Clinic offers high-quality yet affordable gynaecomastia treatment in Delhi, led by experienced surgeons and supported by advanced diagnostics. From consultation to surgery, we ensure transparency in cost, personalised care, and safe outcomes—all at a price that respects your budget.