Gynecomastia : what is it?
Gynecomastia is enlargement of the breast tissue in men. It is common during puberty and usually resolves on its own; if it persists into adulthood it is generally permanent and does not go away with diet or exercise. The reason is that the problem is not only fat but firm glandular tissue. The psychological impact is far greater than the visible one: many men avoid swimming pools, keep their shirt on and avoid thin fabrics for years. Surgical treatment gives a result in a single session with a short recovery.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- Breast enlargement persisting after puberty and stable for at least 12 months
- Chest fullness that does not resolve with exercise and weight loss
- Hormonal causes and medication use already assessed
- Firmness or asymmetry felt in the tissue (examination first, ultrasound if needed)
- Stable weight
How is it performed?
Where the problem is mainly fat, liposuction alone may be enough. In that case only a few millimetre entry points remain.
Where firm glandular tissue is present, it is removed through a crescent-shaped incision at the lower half of the areola. Because the scar falls on the border of the areola, it becomes indistinct.
In cases with significant excess skin, skin removal may be required; the scar is then longer and planning is discussed separately at your consultation.
In most cases liposuction and gland removal are combined, which gives the most natural chest contour.
Recovery
The timeline below shows an average course. Your personal recovery depends on your age, skin quality, smoking and the extent of the operation.
A compression garment is fitted. Pain is mild and controlled with simple painkillers.
Bruising and swelling occur. The arms are not strained. Desk work usually resumes within 3 – 5 days.
The garment is worn for 4 – 6 weeks. Firmness in the area is normal. Sport resumes gradually from week 4.
Swelling resolves, the chest contour becomes clear and the scar fades. The final result is seen in this period.
Possible risks
Every surgical procedure carries risk. Knowing them is not meant to frighten you but to let you decide with full awareness. Each point is discussed individually at your consultation.
- A dip under the nipple (from removing too much tissue)
- Asymmetry and irregularity
- Temporary change in nipple sensation
- Seroma, haematoma
- Recurrence (particularly if an underlying hormonal cause persists)
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. The method that may apply to you, the expected outcome and the risks can only be determined after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Will exercise fix it?
Where the problem is mainly fat, losing weight may reduce the appearance. But firm glandular tissue does not go with exercise; surgery is required.
Can it come back?
Once the gland is removed it generally does not recur. If an underlying hormonal cause or medication continues, recurrence is possible.
Will the scar show?
The incision sits at the border of the areola, at the change in colour, and becomes indistinct over time. With liposuction alone only a few millimetre scars remain.
