What’s involved in male breast reduction surgery?
Some men have more naturally-occurring breast tissue than others. Rapid weight loss can also cause a sagging of the skin across the chest and make the breasts look more pronounced.
Male breast reduction (gynaecomastia) is an operation to reduce the size of the breasts by removing excess fat, glandular tissue and skin from the area.
Gynaecomastia is usually performed under general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep during the procedure and feel no pain. It is generally performed as a day case, although in some instances you may need to stay in hospital one or two nights.
Your surgeon will explain the benefits and risks of gynaecomastia and also discuss any alternatives to the procedure.
About the operation
Your surgeon will cut around the dark skin surrounding the nipple (the areola) or under your arm, and the excess fat, skin and breast tissue will be removed. Liposuction can also be performed at the same time to remove excess fat in the area – please see the separate treatment summary sheet, liposuction.
The operation normally takes about 90 minutes.
Following surgery, you'll need to wear a pressure garment for up to two weeks, to help reduce swelling and to help the healing process. The area will feel sore and tender for a few weeks after surgery but this will reduce with time. There will also be some scarring and how noticeable it is will depend on the amount of tissue that has been removed. The scarring will fade over time and your surgeon will discuss this with you before the operation.
Gynaecomastia is a commonly performed and generally safe surgical procedure. However, all surgery carries an element of risk.
The main possible complications of any surgery include an unexpected reaction to the anaesthesia, excessive bleeding, infection, or developing a blood clot, usually in a vein in the leg (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).
The chance of complications depends on the exact type of operation you’re having and other factors such as your general health. Ask your surgeon to explain how any risks apply to you.
As with any cosmetic surgery procedure, it's important that you review your expectations thoroughly with your surgeon before you decide to proceed.
To find out more about having male breast reduction surgery in a Spire Healthcare hospital, please call our cosmetic surgery team on 0800 434 6644.
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