Gynecomastia (also known as Gynaecomastia or Man Boobs) can be a source of embarrassment to men, and the condition is far more common than many people realise. Male breast reduction is a procedure that involves liposuction. Like all surgical procedures, it carries potential risks and side effects. The impact on a man’s physical and emotional well-being can vary.
Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Read more on the Risks of Surgery
Surgery to correct gynecomastia
Gynecomastia can be caused by excess fat in the breast area or excess glandular tissue behind the nipples. Liposuction is one method used to remove excess fat, but it is a surgical procedure with potential risks. In this surgery procedure, a small incision is made and excess fat is removed by suction. A local anaesthetic can be used and general anaesthesia for sedation is usually not required.
To remove excess glandular breast tissue, a very small incision is made below the nipple and the tissue is removed. These procedures can be combined with liposuction or Vaser Hi Definition Liposculpture to remove excess fat from other parts of the body.
Common causes of gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is triggered by a decrease in testosterone compared with estrogen. This decrease can be caused by a range of conditions that block testosterone, reduce testosterone, or increase estrogen levels. A testosterone/estrogen imbalance in men can be the result of:
Hormonal Imbalance: Testosterone controls male traits that include muscle mass and body hair. Estrogen controls female traits which include the growth of breasts. Male estrogen levels that are out of balance with testosterone levels can cause gynecomastia.
Medications: A number of medications can cause gynecomastia in men. These include anti-androgens used to combat prostate enlargement, anabolic steroids, AIDS medications, ADHD medications, anti-anxiety medications, and some antidepressants and antibiotics, to name a few.
Drugs and Alcohol: Substances that can cause gynecomastia can include alcohol, amphetamines, marijuana, heroin, methadone and anabolic steroids. Some herbal products used in soaps, shampoos and conditioners can also impact hormone levels.
Health Conditions: Some health conditions can affect hormone balance and cause gynecomastia. These include hypogonadism, tumours, hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, liver disease, malnutrition, unwanted weight loss/weight gain, and ageing.
Signs and symptoms of gynecomastia
Apart from noticeable physical changes, most men with gynecomastia report no troubling symptoms. Occasional signs and symptoms of gynecomastia may include:
- Pain (more prevalent in adolescents)
- Swollen breast tissue
- Breast tenderness
- Nipple and areola sensitivity
Before 
After 
Performed By: Dr Ashley Granot (M0001026218) MBBS, FFMACCS (Med), FACP, FACNEM, ABBRM, MA5M Cosmetic Doctor, Melbourne
How to know if you have gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is generally noticed in both breasts, but it can also cause asymmetric or unilateral breasts. If you have gynecomastia, a breast self-exam may detect a disc-like mound of tissue that is not as hard as breast cancer, usually located under the nipple-areolar area.
If the mass is hard, fixed, or associated with nipple discharge or skin changes, a mammogram or MRI should be performed to investigate the possibility of breast cancer.
Side effects to look out for after gynecomastia surgery
After the procedure, you may feel drowsy from the anaesthetic so It is important to have someone drive you home and stay overnight. You are provided with a Me Clinic after-hours number in case you have any questions or concerns you wish to speak to us about.
A day or two after the procedure, you will return to the Clinic for a post-operative check-up. Most patients tolerate mild discomfort without the need for pain relief medication. However, medication can be prescribed if required.
A compression garment is usually worn for approximately 3-6 weeks around the chest area to facilitate optimum recovery. Most patients find they can resume regular activities within 2-3 weeks.
The male breast reduction surgery you have been looking for
Gynecomastia is a condition that some men may wish to address for personal reasons, including comfort and personal aesthetics. Treatment options for removing male breast tissue involve surgical procedures, which carry potential risks and require recovery time. The specifics of the procedure and recovery can vary. While some individuals report increased self-confidence following the procedure, it’s important to consider the potential discomfort and risks involved with any cosmetic procedure. However, as we age, so do our bodies and it’s important to have realistic expectations.
Discover our experienced surgeon’s natural results
Male breast enlargement is more common than you may think and you may be a good candidate for removing excess skin tissue or fatty tissue. Me Clinic uses current surgical techniques and procedures. The results of these procedures can vary. You can read about the experiences of previous patients who have undergone male breast surgery at Me Clinic. Please note that individual results can vary.
Find out if you are a candidate for gynecomastia surgery
Me Clinic is a clinic in Australia that offers plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures. We work with highly qualified surgeons, clinicians, and anaesthetists who are experienced in treating a wide range of medical conditions. We support our patients from the initial consultation through to recovery and post-surgery aftercare.
You can contact Me Clinic and book a consultation for a personalised one-on-one in clinic, video or phone chat with a qualified Me Clinic surgeon. Alternatively, use the handy online consultation form for more information.
Our Practioners Who Specialise in Gynecomastia Surgery in Melbourne:
Mr Amir Tadros
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Read more
Can gynecomastia grow back after surgery?
Gynecomastia can come back after male breast reduction surgery. Gynecomastia can potentially recur after male breast reduction surgery. The likelihood of recurrence can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle changes.
What are the risks and complications of gynecomastia surgery?
Male breast surgery for gynecomastia is a surgical procedure and, like all surgeries, carries potential risks and side effects. However, some effects associated with the procedure include bruising, bleeding, and fluid collection around the site.
