Gynecomasty

Gynecomasty surgery, or male breast reduction, is a specialized procedure designed to correct enlarged breasts in men by removing excess glandular tissue and localized fat. This condition can affect men of all ages, often causing physical discomfort and significant psychological distress. Our approach focuses on restoring a firm, masculine chest contour through precise surgical techniques that prioritize natural-looking results and minimal scarring.

Gynecomastia is a common condition characterized by the overdevelopment of breast tissue in males. It can be triggered by hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or significant weight fluctuations. While some cases can be managed through lifestyle changes, many men find that diet and exercise alone cannot address the dense glandular tissue. Surgical intervention provides a definitive solution to flatten and contour the chest, allowing for a more athletic and proportionate appearance.

What is Gynecomasty Surgery?

The surgical correction of gynecomastia typically involves a combination of two techniques: liposuction and surgical excision. The choice of method depends on whether the enlargement is primarily caused by excess fatty tissue (pseudogynecomastia) or a firm, overdeveloped mammary gland.

In cases involving excess fat, advanced liposuction is used to vacuum out the adipose tissue through tiny, inconspicuous incisions. If there is a significant amount of glandular tissue, a small incision is made along the lower border of the areola (periareolar incision) to manually remove the firm gland. In more severe cases where the skin has been stretched by the weight of the tissue, excess skin may also be trimmed and tightened to ensure the chest remains smooth and firm after the underlying volume is removed.

Who is gynecomasty surgery for?

This procedure is suitable for men who have stabilized their weight but are still bothered by the appearance of their chest. You may be a candidate for surgery if:

• You feel self-conscious or embarrassed when removing your shirt in public.
• Your breast development has persisted after puberty or after addressing underlying medical causes.
• You experience physical tenderness or sensitivity in the breast area.
• Your chest appears "soft" or "rounded" despite regular exercise and a healthy diet.
• You are looking to restore a flatter, more contoured masculine chest profile.

Before the operation

Your journey begins with a thorough medical evaluation. Your surgeon will examine the chest tissue to differentiate between fat and glandular tissue and may order blood tests to rule out any underlying hormonal issues. During this consultation, you will discuss the surgical plan, including incision placement and the expected degree of chest flattening.

Preoperative instructions are vital for a smooth recovery. You will be asked to stop smoking and avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin or certain herbal supplements, for at least two weeks before the procedure. It is also important to maintain a stable weight leading up to the surgery to ensure the most predictable and lasting outcome.

During the operation

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If liposuction is part of the plan, a tumescent fluid is injected to minimize bruising, and the fat is removed through a small cannula.

If glandular excision is required, the surgeon makes a precise incision around the lower half of the nipple. The excess gland is carefully removed, and the surgeon sculpts the remaining tissue to ensure a smooth transition to the chest wall. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a compression garment is applied to the chest.

After the operation and recovery

Immediately following surgery, you will be required to wear a specialized compression vest 24/7 for several weeks. This garment is crucial as it minimizes swelling, supports the new chest contour, and helps the skin retract smoothly. Most patients experience some mild soreness and bruising, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.

Most men return to sedentary work within 3 to 5 days and can resume light walking almost immediately. However, it is essential to avoid heavy lifting, chest-press exercises, and vigorous upper-body movements for 4 to 6 weeks. While the reduction in volume is visible immediately, the final results will emerge over 3 to 6 months as the swelling fully resolves and the tissues settle into their permanent position.

Will the results be permanent?

In the vast majority of cases, the results of gynecomastia surgery are permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. If the glandular tissue is removed, it typically does not grow back. However, significant weight gain or the use of certain substances (such as anabolic steroids or specific medications) that cause hormonal imbalances could lead to a recurrence.

Where will the scars be located?

If liposuction is the only method used, the scars are tiny (usually less than 1cm) and placed in the natural folds of the chest or armpit. If glandular excision is necessary, the scar is placed along the border where the dark skin of the areola meets the lighter skin of the chest. These scars generally fade significantly over time and are very difficult to notice once fully healed.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients report a feeling of "tightness" or "muscle soreness" rather than sharp pain. The discomfort is usually most noticeable in the first 48 hours and is well-controlled with standard post-operative pain relief. Most men find the recovery much easier than they anticipated.

Will my nipples look normal after surgery?

The goal of the surgery is to maintain the natural appearance and sensation of the nipple. In cases where the nipple was stretched by the underlying tissue, it often retracts and appears more proportionate once the excess volume is removed. Your surgeon will take great care to ensure the nipple sits in a natural, masculine position on the chest wall.