Male breast development can occur for many reasons. Some of these causes of gynaecomastia can be reversed or addressed but some can’t and therefore need correction.
How is the surgery done?
Liposuction is almost always used first to remove as much of the fatty content of the breasts. If there is a remaining remnant of firmer glandular tissue that the liposuction can’t get then this is surgically removed through an incision under the pink areola part of the nipple. It is less common to have to remove skin as this shrinks with time after the liposuction. Sometimes if the breasts are very droopy skin needs to be removed. This will be evaluated at your consultation.
Are there scars?
The only time there are noticeable scars is if skin needs to be removed. This is luckily less common, so the majority of gynaecomastia surgery is done with no, or barely visible, scarring.
What is the recovery?
This is a day procedure. After you leave hospital you will need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and help the skin shrink for three weeks. Recovery is about two weeks, but full active exercise of the upper body not until six weeks. The swelling and skin shrinkage will take around three months.
FAQ
What to expect after gynaecomastia surgery?
After male breast reduction surgery, immediate recovery involves wearing a compression garment and experiencing mild discomfort, some bruising and swelling. In the first weeks intensive exercise is not recommended to limit swelling. Gentle exercise such as walking is permitted. Over the first few weeks swelling decreases. If the correction involves liposuction alone, then scars are tiny. If an incision is made at the nipple edge to remove glandular tissue, then these scars fade over several months.
Who is a good candidate for a male breast reduction?
A good candidate for male breast reduction, or gynaecomastia surgery, typically has enlarged breast tissue that hasn’t responded to lifestyle changes or medical treatments, possesses realistic expectations, maintains good overall health, has a stable weight, is a non-smoker or willing to quit, approaches the procedure with a positive mindset, and has made an informed decision through research and consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
What is gynaecomastia surgery or male breast reduction?
Gynaecomastia refers to the enlargement of breast tissue in males. This can occur due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, certain medications, or obesity. To address this, male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynaecomastia surgery, is performed. This procedure commonly involves the removal of fatty tissue across the chest with liposuction. In addition to this sometimes more dense glandular tissue needs to be removed from a small scar around the nipple. In severe male breast enlargement skin may need to be removed, but this is less common. The goal of the surgery is to create a more traditionally masculine chest contour, which can enhance self-confidence and body image.
