Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
Male breast reduction
What is it?
Gynecomastia is enlargement of the male breast. Its cause may be known or unidentified, and it may develop during childhood, adolescence or adulthood. Described causes include hormonal or endocrine disorders, tumours, anabolic steroid use, alcohol consumption and certain medicines.
Pseudogynecomastia is mainly related to increased fat, generally in patients with obesity or following weight loss after obesity, and may be accompanied by a drooping breast.
Surgical treatment usually requires liposuction. Direct excision of glandular tissue, reduction of the areolae and, in extreme cases, removal of skin may also be necessary.
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Video
Procedures that may be combined
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about gynecomastia and its surgical treatment.
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is enlargement of the male breast. It may have an identified cause or occur without a known cause.
At what ages can gynecomastia develop?
It may develop during childhood, adolescence or adulthood.
What can cause gynecomastia?
Described causes include hormonal or endocrine disorders, tumours, anabolic steroid use, alcohol consumption and certain medicines. In some cases, the cause is not identified.
What is pseudogynecomastia?
It is male breast enlargement mainly related to excess fat, generally in patients with obesity or following weight loss after obesity. It may be accompanied by a drooping breast.
What is the purpose of gynecomastia surgery?
The aim is to reduce the male breast and excessively broad areolae, seeking a more masculine chest appearance.
How is the surgical treatment performed?
Treatment usually requires liposuction and may also include direct excision of glandular tissue.
Can the areolae or excess skin need to be reduced?
Yes. Reduction of the areolae may be part of the treatment and, in extreme cases, skin removal may be necessary.
How long does surgery take?
The expected duration is approximately 1h30 to 2h30.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
Is a hospital stay required?
The procedure may be performed as outpatient treatment or require one day in hospital.
Where are the scars placed?
The scar is usually placed around the areola. In extreme cases, there may also be a scar in the inframammary fold. Scars generally become less noticeable over time.
When is it possible to return to work?
Return to work usually occurs after approximately 5 to 7 days, provided the activity does not involve physical effort or lifting weights.
When can the arms be fully elevated?
Full elevation of the arms may begin from the second week.
When can sport be resumed and how long is the compression garment worn?
Sport may be resumed after six weeks. The compression garment is worn for six weeks.
What are the risks and how long do the results last?
Possible effects and risks include bruising, discomfort, fluid accumulation, swelling, changes in nipple sensation, excessive scarring, hyperpigmentation, haematoma, infection, irregularities or adhesions. Some changes may require future correction. The procedure is usually definitive.
This information does not replace an individual medical assessment.
