Gynecomastia surgery

Gynaecomastia – When the Chest Contour Should Have a More Masculine Appearance

Gynaecomastia is the development of breast tissue in men. The condition may be caused by enlarged glandular tissue, increased fatty tissue, or a combination of both.

Breast development is relatively common during puberty in young men and, in many cases, resolves spontaneously. Surgery is therefore usually not considered until development has stabilised. If breast enlargement develops later in life, is one-sided, or changes rapidly, hormonal or other medical causes should be investigated before surgery.

The aim of treatment is to reduce the fullness of the chest and create a flatter, more harmonious contour, adapted to the patient’s chest and overall body shape.

The Consultation

During the consultation, the size and shape of the chest, the amount of fatty and glandular tissue, skin elasticity, and any difference between the right and left side are assessed.

It is then considered whether treatment is best performed with liposuction, removal of glandular tissue, or a combination of both techniques. In cases of more significant skin excess, additional skin reduction may occasionally be required.

In younger patients, it is also important to assess whether breast development has stabilised sufficiently before surgery is planned.

How is the Procedure Performed?

If the enlargement is mainly caused by fatty tissue, liposuction alone may be sufficient.

If there is also firm glandular tissue beneath the nipple, this is removed through a discreet incision along the edge of the areola. A small amount of tissue is usually left beneath the nipple to preserve a natural contour and reduce the risk of nipple retraction.

Liposuction may be combined with removal of glandular tissue to create a smooth transition between the treated area and the rest of the chest.

The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately 1–2 hours. Drains may occasionally be used.

Recovery

After surgery, a compression vest or compression garment is worn for several weeks to support the tissues and reduce swelling and fluid accumulation.

Swelling, tenderness and bruising should be expected during the initial recovery period. Light daily activity can gradually be resumed, while heavy chest and upper-body training should wait until healing allows.

What Happens to the Scars?

When glandular tissue is removed, the scar is usually placed along the edge of the areola, where the transition between darker and lighter skin helps make it less noticeable.

Liposuction requires only a few small access incisions.

The scars will initially be visible but usually become gradually lighter and less noticeable over time.

Are There Risks?

As with all surgery, possible risks include swelling, bleeding, infection, fluid collection, altered sensation, asymmetry, or irregularities in the chest contour.

In some cases, a minor secondary correction may later be required.

What Can Be Expected from the Result?

The aim is a flatter and more natural chest contour with better balance between the chest and the rest of the upper body.

The result depends on factors such as the amount of glandular and fatty tissue, skin elasticity, weight stability, and the patient’s individual anatomy.