Gynecomastia is a medical condition characterized by enlarged male breasts made up of excess fat and glandular tissue. Experts estimate that 40 to 60 percent of men are affected by gynecomastia, which can cause serious social and psychological problems, including anxiety and depression. Gynecomastia is diagnosed after a careful medical evaluation.

Though the exact cause is not always known, gynecomastia has been linked to certain medications, hormonal imbalance and steroid use.

Exercise can reduce excess stored fat on the chest; however, it has no effect on the dense glandular tissue caused by gynecomastia. Some men are dismayed to find that no matter how hard or often they exercise, their breasts do not get smaller.

The only way to reverse gynecomastia is through male breast reduction surgery. During the operation, the surgeon uses a combination of liposuction and excision techniques to remove fat and glandular tissue. Excess skin is removed and the remaining skin is tightened over the chest. The nipple-areolar complex can be reduced and relocated higher on the breast, if needed.

Recovery varies by patient and the scope of their procedure. Most patients return to work and socializing after about a week. Light exercise can be resumed two weeks after surgery and more strenuous activities four to six weeks after surgery.

As long as the surgeon makes the incisions carefully and in the natural folds of the skin, the incision lines should fade considerably after surgery. Most men are happy to trade their enlarged breasts for barely noticeable scars

n addition to improving the appearance of the chest, gynecomastia surgery can also lead to an increase in self-confidence and sexual satisfaction. Many men have newfound motivation to exercise and maintain their results.