Male Breast Reduction (Gynaecomastia)
What is it?
This surgery corrects enlarged male breasts by removing excess glandular tissue and fat. The goal is to create a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour.
What happens during surgery?
The technique depends on the cause. For predominantly fatty tissue, liposuction alone may suffice. For significant glandular tissue, it is surgically excised through a small incision around the edge of the areola. Often, a combination of both techniques is used. The surgery is usually done under general anaesthetic and takes 60-90 minutes.
What is the recovery like?
- Hospital Stay: Typically a day case.
- Initial Recovery (1-2 weeks): You will wear a compression garment to minimise swelling. There will be some bruising and discomfort. You can walk immediately but must avoid arm strain.
- Returning to Work: Office work can often be resumed within a week.
- Exercise: Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.
- Final Results: Swelling subsides over several weeks, with the final contour visible after a few months. Scars are usually discreet and fade well.
What are the potential risks?
Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, contour irregularities, changes in nipple sensation, and potential for seroma (fluid collection).
FAQ
1. What causes gynecomastia, and how do I know if I have it?
Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of male breast glandular tissue, often caused by hormonal imbalances, certain medications, steroids, or idiopathic factors. It is distinguished from pseudo-gynecomastia (fatty enlargement) by a firm, rubbery disc of tissue beneath the nipple. A consultation with Mr Ibrahim can confirm the diagnosis.
2. What are the different surgical techniques?
Treatment is tailored: Liposuction alone for fatty enlargement; direct excision (through a periareolar incision) for glandular tissue; or a combination of both. For severe cases with excess skin, skin removal with more extensive scars may be required.
3. Where will the scars be located?
For liposuction, scars are tiny (3-5mm). For gland excision, the incision is semi-circular around the lower half of the areola, where it heals discreetly. Mr Ibrahim takes great care to minimise scarring and preserve a masculine chest contour.
4. Will the gynecomastia come back after surgery?
The removed glandular tissue does not grow back. However, if the underlying cause (like certain medications or anabolic steroid use) is not addressed, or if you gain significant weight, recurrence is possible. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle supports permanent results.
5. What is recovery like for gynecomastia surgery?
You will wear a compression garment for 4-6 weeks to control swelling and help skin retraction. Light activity can resume after a few days, but strenuous exercise and chest workouts must be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Most return to desk work within a week.
6. What are the specific risks of this procedure?
Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, contour irregularities, asymmetry, permanent nipple sensation changes, and seroma (fluid collection), which may require drainage. There is also a risk of over-resection creating a “crater” deformity or under-resection leaving residual tissue.
7. Will I have drains after surgery?
For larger excisions or combined liposuction/excision cases, small drains may be used for a few days to prevent fluid buildup. For minor liposuction-only cases, drains are often not necessary.
8. Is gynecomastia surgery considered cosmetic by the NHS?
NHS funding is very restricted. Most procedures are performed privately.
