Many men tell me, “Doctor, only one side of my chest looks enlarged—am I imagining it?”
This asymmetry can feel confusing, embarrassing, and difficult to explain to others. You may try workouts, posture correction, or even ignore it—hoping it settles on its own.
In reality, unilateral gynecomastia is a well-recognized condition. The reassuring part? With the right diagnosis and technique, it is completely treatable and correctable.
— Dr. Milan Doshi
What is unilateral gynecomastia?
Unilateral gynecomastia is male breast enlargement affecting only one side of the chest.
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Can involve gland tissue, fat, or both
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May affect either the left or right side
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Often noticed while dressing or during self-examination
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Commonly mistaken for muscle imbalance or old injury
In my clinical experience, many fit men delay consultation because they assume asymmetry is “normal.”
Why does gynecomastia affect only one side?
Each breast gland responds differently to hormonal and local factors.
Common reasons include:
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Unequal sensitivity of breast tissue to estrogen
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Previous trauma, injections, or inflammation on one side
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Certain medications affecting one side more prominently
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Idiopathic cases (no clear cause despite evaluation)
Having unilateral involvement does not automatically mean a serious hormonal disorder.
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Asymmetry does not mean severity—but it does need proper evaluation.
How can you identify unilateral gynecomastia accurately?
Only a clinical examination can confirm true gynecomastia.
Key indicators:
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Firm or rubbery tissue directly under one areola
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Puffy or projected nipple on one side
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Chest muscle feels normal underneath
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Ultrasound used to confirm gland presence
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Hormonal tests advised only when clinically indicated
Self-diagnosis often leads to unnecessary anxiety or delay.
Can exercise or weight loss correct one-sided gynecomastia?
No. Exercise cannot remove glandular tissue.
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Chest workouts build muscle—not remove gland
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Targeted exercises cannot shrink breast gland
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Muscle hypertrophy may even highlight asymmetry
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Permanent correction requires surgical gland removal
This is why many athletic men still notice persistent one-sided puffiness.
What are the treatment options for unilateral gynecomastia?
Treatment is customized to restore symmetry—not just remove tissue.
At Allure Medspa, my approach includes:
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Precise sub-areolar gland excision on the affected side
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Liposuction if fat blending is required
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Minor contouring of the opposite side only if needed
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Tiny incision hidden along the areola border
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Day-care procedure under local anesthesia with sedation
Learn more about gynecomastia surgery in Mumbai and available techniques.
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
The goal is symmetry—not overcorrection.
Will my chest look symmetrical after surgery?
Yes, when surgery is planned with balance and proportion in mind.
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Gland completely removed from the affected side
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Chest contours matched visually and anatomically
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Scar usually becomes nearly invisible over time
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Most patients see final results in 6–12 weeks
View real outcomes in the Before & After Gynecomastia Gallery.
What is the cost of unilateral gynecomastia surgery in India?
Costs depend on grade, gland size, and liposuction requirement.
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Approximate range: ₹60,000 – ₹90,000
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Includes consultation, surgery, compression garment, and follow-ups
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Transparent estimates provided after physical examination
See detailed breakdown on the Gynecomastia Surgery Cost Page.
FAQs– Unilateral Gynecomastia
Q1. Is it normal to have gynecomastia on only one side?
Ans. Yes. One-sided involvement is common and medically recognized.
Q2. How is it different from muscle imbalance?
Ans. Gynecomastia is firm gland tissue under the nipple; muscle imbalance changes overall chest shape.
Q3. Will surgery be done on both sides?
Ans. Usually only on the affected side; the other side is adjusted only if required for symmetry.
Q4. Does one-sided gynecomastia mean hormonal disease?
Ans. Not always. Many cases have normal hormone levels.
Q5. How long is recovery after surgery?
Ans. Most men return to routine work in 2–3 days and workouts in 3–4 weeks.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Milan Doshi
Unilateral gynecomastia is common, correctable, and nothing to be embarrassed about.
With proper diagnosis and a surgeon-led approach, symmetry can be restored safely and naturally.
Early consultation avoids unnecessary worry—and delivers better aesthetic outcomes.
