A condition that involves the development of excess male breast tissue, gynaecomastia affects around 40-60 percent of the male population. Male breast reduction is a body contouring procedure that can address the excess breast tissue and result in a flatter chest.

Most commonly occurring during puberty, gynaecomastia can affect men of all demographics, shapes and sizes. Breast enlargement in adolescent males occurs in up to 90% of the population but often resolves itself as hormones come under control.

For some, the hormonal imbalance does not rectify itself with the higher levels of oestrogen, causing breast tissue growth. Older men, as their male hormone levels decrease, may also experience increased breast tissue.

The use of some prescription and recreational drugs (in particular anabolic steroids), genetics and chronic diseases (particularly involving the kidney and liver) may also contribute to the condition.

CANDIDATES FOR THE PROCEDURE INCLUDE:

  • Post-adolescent males with excess breast tissue
  • Older males suffering hormonal imbalance
  • Males with excess breast tissue as a result of drug use, genetics or a chronic condition

ABOUT THE PROCEDURE

Male breast reduction is a surgical procedure that most commonly involves a combination of liposuction to remove fatty tissue and the excision of dense breast tissue. Incisions are placed along the lower border of the areola (nipple) and positioned to be least noticeable. The surgery will be performed under a general anaesthetic and depending upon your recovery may involve a day surgery or an overnight stay.

See Before and Afters

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY

After the surgery, it’s important to take proper care of yourself during the recovery period to ensure optimal results. Here is a guide to gynaecomastia recovery:

Immediately After Surgery:

You will be monitored in a recovery room for a few hours before being discharged to go home. You will need to have a responsible adult take you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.

1-2 Days After Surgery:

You will need to rest and limit physical activity during the first few days after surgery. Pain, swelling, and bruising are common during this time. You will need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.

1 Week After Surgery:

You will have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress. You may be able to return to work and resume light activities, but you should still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.

2-3 Weeks After Surgery:

Most of the swelling and bruising should have subsided, and you may be able to resume normal activities. Your surgeon will advise you on when it is safe to resume exercise and other physical activities.

4-6 Weeks After Surgery:

You should see significant improvement in the appearance of your chest at this point, and any residual swelling should continue to subside. You can typically resume all physical activities at this point once cleared by your surgeon.

6-12 Months After Surgery:

The final results of your gynaecomastia surgery may not be fully visible until 6-12 months after surgery, once all swelling and healing is complete. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon will help ensure proper healing and optimal results.

It’s important to note that everyone’s recovery timeline may vary depending on individual factors and the extent of the surgery. Always follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and consult with them if you have any concerns during your recovery.

Gynaecomastia Risks

Gynaecomastia surgery, like all surgeries, carries a set of potential risks that you should be aware of before making your decision. These risks include:

  • Anaesthesia risks
  • Bleeding (hematoma)
  • Blood clots
  • Breast asymmetry
  • Breast contour and shape irregularities
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation may be temporary or permanent
  • Damage to deeper structures – such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles and lungs – can occur and may be temporary or permanent
  • Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
  • Fatty tissue found in the breast might die (fat necrosis)
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)
  • Infection
  • Persistent pain
  • Poor wound healing
  • Possibility of revision surgery
  • Reactions to tape, suture materials, glues, topical preparations or injected agents
  • Unfavourable scarring

It’s important to remember that not everyone who undergoes gynaecomastia surgery will experience these risks, and that your surgeon will discuss these potential complications with you before the procedure to help mitigate any risks.

Gynaecomastia Results

Final results will be apparent between six and 12 months after surgery in most cases. The results can be long-lasting, as long as external factors such as weight gain do not affect them.

To ensure that the results of your gynaecomastia surgery last as long as possible, follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments as directed. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding smoking can help you maintain the results of your gynaecomastia surgery over time.

A Note on Results

The results of any medical treatment, aesthetic or otherwise, will affect patients differently based on various individual, genetic, environmental, diet, exercise and other factors. For that reason, you should always expect to see some variance between the results featured and the results you can achieve. What works for one person may not work for another, and each patient’s unique needs and expectations must be considered when determining the best course of action.

Therefore, it is essential to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced medical professional who can help to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific circumstances. It is also important to understand that male breast reduction is not a quick fix and requires patience and commitment to achieve the desired results.