Male breast reduction is a surgical procedure used to get rid of gynecomastia or gyno. Gynecomastia or “man boobs” refers to the enlargement of the male breast tissue. This can cause the mail chest to take on a feminine appearance. Gynecomastia surgery involves surgically removing excess breast tissue and fat to achieve a masculine-looking chest. Centre for Surgery is the leading plastic surgery clinic in London and is a centre of excellence for male breast reduction surgery. Here we answer your most commonly asked questions about male breast reduction and gynecomastia.
GYNECOMASTIA OVERVIEW
What is gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a medical condition in which there is an abnormal growth of breast tissue in males, resulting in enlarged breasts. This can be caused by a hormonal imbalance, certain medications, or an underlying health condition. Treatment options include surgery, hormone therapy, or a combination of both.
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What are the stages of gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is typically classified into four stages based on the degree of breast tissue development:
- Stage 1: There is a small amount of breast tissue present, and the condition is often referred to as “pseudogynecomastia” because it is caused by an accumulation of fat rather than breast tissue.
- Stage 2: There is a moderate amount of breast tissue present, and the nipple may begin to puff out slightly.
- Stage 3: There is a significant amount of breast tissue present, and the nipple and areola may begin to enlarge.
- Stage 4: There is a large amount of breast tissue present, and the breast may resemble the breast of a female.
It’s important to note that the classification of gynecomastia stages can be different between clinics and surgeons.
Does gynecomastia go away?
Gynecomastia, or the abnormal growth of breast tissue in males, can go away without treatment, but it depends on the underlying cause. Some common causes of gynecomastia include hormonal imbalances, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.
If the cause is a hormonal imbalance, such as an increase in eestrogen or a decrease in testosterone, the condition may resolve on its own as the hormones return to normal levels. However, if the cause is related to a medication or an underlying medical condition, the condition may persist and require treatment.
It’s also important to note that if gynecomastia is caused by being overweight or obesity, weight loss can help to reduce breast tissue.
It’s important to consult with a surgeon or an endocrinologist in some cases to determine the underlying cause of the condition and determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own, but in others, treatment may be necessary to resolve the issue and improve the appearance of the chest.
Is gynecomastia dangerous?
Gynecomastia, or the abnormal growth of breast tissue in males, is not typically considered to be dangerous. However, it can cause physical discomfort, embarrassment, and affect self-esteem. In some cases, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.
In rare cases, the breast tissue may be hard or painful. This could indicate a breast tumour, which requires further evaluation and treatment. It’s important to consult a doctor if you notice any changes in your breast tissue, such as a hard lump or pain.
It’s important to note that in some cases, gynecomastia may be caused by the use of certain medications or recreational drugs, and discontinuing these may resolve the issue. In other cases, the underlying cause may be a hormonal imbalance, and addressing this issue may resolve gynecomastia.
In general, gynecomastia is not considered dangerous, but it can have a negative impact on quality of life. Consult with a doctor or endocrinologist to determine the underlying cause and best course of treatment.
Do I need gynecomastia surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, may be necessary if you have an abnormal growth of breast tissue that causes discomfort, embarrassment, or affects your self-esteem. However, whether or not you need surgery to treat your gynecomastia depends on your individual condition and goals.
It’s important to consider non-surgical options such as weight loss, hormone therapy or medication, or lifestyle changes before considering surgery. These options may be effective in reducing breast tissue and improving the appearance of the chest.
If non-surgical options have not been successful or if you have a significant amount of breast tissue, surgery may be an appropriate option. Surgery can remove excess fat and breast tissue, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest.
What are the benefits of gynecomastia surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved physical appearance: The surgery can remove excess fat and breast tissue, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest.
- Increased self-esteem and confidence: Many men who have gynecomastia feel self-conscious and embarrassed about their appearance. Surgery can help to improve their self-esteem and confidence in their appearance.
- Relief from physical discomfort: Men with gynecomastia may experience physical discomfort or pain in the breast area. Surgery can provide relief from these symptoms.
- Improved quality of life: Gynecomastia can have a negative impact on a man’s physical, emotional and social life. Surgery can help to improve the quality of life by addressing the physical and emotional concerns caused by the condition.
- Better fitting clothing: Men with gynecomastia may have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. Surgery can help to improve their ability to find clothing that fits and flatters their body shape.
- Long-lasting results: The surgery typically produces long-lasting results and can help to achieve a more masculine and contoured chest, and improve overall self-image.
It’s important to have realistic expectations and to have a candid conversation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to understand the risks and benefits of the surgery and the potential outcomes.
SUITABILITY FOR GYNO SURGERY
Am I suitable for male breast reduction?
The best way to determine if you are a suitable candidate for male breast reduction surgery is to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon. They will be able to evaluate your medical history and current condition, as well as your goals for the surgery.
In general, you may be a good candidate for male breast reduction surgery if you meet the following criteria:
- You are in good physical and mental health
- You have realistic expectations for the surgery
- You have a significant amount of breast tissue that causes discomfort, embarrassment or affects your self-esteem
- You have tried non-surgical options such as weight loss or hormone therapy without success
- You are not planning on significant weight loss in the future
- You are not taking medications or using recreational drugs that may contribute to gynecomastia
It’s important to note that you should be able to take some time off for recovery after the surgery and be able to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions.
It’s also important to remember that every case is different, and only a face-to-face consultation with a surgeon can confirm if you are a good candidate for the surgery.
GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY PROCEDURE
What are the surgical options for gyno surgery?
There are several surgical options for male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, which can be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. These options include:
- Liposuction: This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing excess fat from the breast area using a thin tube called a cannula.
- Excision: This procedure involves making an incision and removing the breast tissue. This method is typically used for patients with a significant amount of breast tissue or those who have had minimal success with liposuction alone.
- Combination of Liposuction and Excision: This is a procedure that combines liposuction and excision to remove both fat and breast tissue. This is typically used for patients who have both excess fat and breast tissue.
- Skin excision: This procedure is used for patients who have undergone significant weight loss or have sagging skin after surgery. It involves removing excess skin to tighten and reshape the chest.
The best surgical option for you will depend on your individual condition and goals for the surgery. It’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon about your expectations and preferences to determine the best course of treatment.
What is a Webster’s incision?
A Webster’s incision, also known as a “Webster’s technique,” is a surgical incision used in gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery. It is a technique for removing breast tissue and skin from the chest area, and it is usually used when there is a significant amount of excess skin or when the nipple and areola need to be repositioned.
The Webster’s incision is made around the areola, which is the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. The incision circles the areola in a circular manner and extends vertically down the chest. This incision allows the surgeon to remove breast tissue, reshape the chest and reposition the nipple and areola if necessary.
The Webster’s incision is a more invasive technique, and it leaves more visible scarring compared to other incision techniques. It’s often used when the patient has a significant amount of excess skin and when the nipple and areola need to be repositioned.
It’s important to keep in mind that every case is unique, and the choice of incision technique is determined by the surgeon based on the individual case and the patient’s desired outcome. It’s important to have a candid conversation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine the best incision technique for you, and discuss the benefits and risks of the surgery, as well as to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
Will I have drains after gynecomastia surgery?
Drains are sometimes used after gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, to prevent the buildup of fluids and blood under the skin. The use of drains is usually determined by the surgeon and is based on factors such as the type of surgery performed, the size of the breast tissue removed and the individual patient’s healing process.
Drains are small tubes inserted through small incisions near the surgical site. They are left in place during the healing process to allow fluids to drain away from the surgical site. The fluids are collected in a small container attached to the end of the tube. The container is emptied as necessary, and the fluid is measured to monitor the amount of fluid that is draining.
The drains are usually removed a day or two after surgery or when the amount of fluid is low enough. After the removal of the drains, the patient will have to keep the incision site clean and dry, and the surgeon may advise wearing a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
It is important to keep in mind that every case is unique, and the use of drains is determined by the surgeon based on the patient’s individual case. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s instructions and advice after surgery to ensure a successful recovery.
RECOVERY AFTER MALE BREAST REDUCTION
How long does it take to recover from a male breast reduction?
Recovery time after male breast reduction surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the procedure and the patient’s overall health. In general, patients should expect to take 1-2 weeks off work to recover, but it could take longer depending on the type of work and the extent of the surgery.
During the recovery period, patients will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon. Patients should avoid any strenuous activity and follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid complications and promote healing.
It’s important to note that there may be some numbness, tingling, or other changes in sensation in the breast area, which is normal after surgery and usually resolves over time. Postoperative follow-up visits are important. The surgeon will check on the healing process, evaluate the results, and provide instructions on resuming normal activities. The final results can take 3-6 months to be fully visible.
It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions and take enough time to recover to avoid any complications and achieve the best possible results.
Will I have visible scarring after gyno surgery?
Yes. There will be a certain degree of scarring after gyno surgery. Your surgeon will position incisions in natural skin folds to minimise their appearance. Scars gradually become lighter and flatter over time. Gynecomastia scars can be easily covered up with most types of clothing.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY
What are the risks of male breast reduction?
Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, carries some risks, as with any surgical procedure. These may include:
- Anaesthesia risks: complications related to the anaesthesia used during the surgery
- Haematoma: bleeding under the skin, which may require further surgery to drain
- Infection: infection at the incision site
- Changes in sensation: temporary or permanent changes in sensation in the breast or nipple area
- Unsatisfactory results: dissatisfaction with the final appearance of the breast
- Scarring: visible scars from the incision site
- Asymmetry: unevenness in the size or shape of the breasts after surgery
- Recurrent gynecomastia: in some cases, the breast tissue may return even after surgery
It is important to be aware of these risks and have a candid discussion with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. A qualified and experienced surgeon will be able to evaluate the case and discuss the possible outcome and risks with the patient.
Is gynecomastia surgery painful?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which means that you will be asleep during the procedure and should not feel any pain. After the surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon.
During the first few days after the surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort, but it should gradually improve as you heal. Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to manage pain and discomfort and minimize the risk of complications.
It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and avoid any strenuous activity during the recovery period to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
It’s also important to note that every patient’s pain tolerance is different, and some may experience more pain than others. It’s important to communicate with your surgeon if you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort, and they will provide additional pain management.
It’s important to remember that the recovery time may vary from person to person, but with proper care and following the instructions given by the surgeon, the recovery process should be manageable.
GYNECOMASTIA RESULTS
Does male breast reduction last forever?
Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, typically produces long-lasting results. However, the permanency of the results can depend on the patient’s overall health, lifestyle choices, and other factors.
The removal of breast tissue and/or fat during surgery is permanent, but in some cases, if the patient gains a significant amount of weight, the breast tissue may return. Similarly, if the underlying cause of the gynecomastia is a hormonal imbalance or a medication, it could come back if the patient starts taking the medication again or the hormonal imbalance persists.
It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, after surgery to help ensure the best possible results. Additionally, it’s important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activity and avoiding exposure to the sun, to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications.
It’s also important to have follow-up visits with your surgeon to evaluate the results and ensure that the healing process is progressing as expected.
Can gynecomastia grow back after surgery?
It is possible for gynecomastia to recur after surgery, although this is relatively uncommon. Factors that can increase the risk of recurrent gynecomastia include obesity, the use of certain medications or recreational drugs, and an underlying hormonal imbalance. In some cases, the tissue that was removed during surgery may be replaced by fat, which can cause the appearance of breast tissue to return. However, this is not always the case, and most patients are satisfied with the results of their surgery.
It’s important to note that the best way to prevent the recurrence of gynecomastia is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid any behaviours or medications that may contribute to the condition. It’s also important to have good communication with the surgeon and follow-up visits to evaluate the results.
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Can a male breast reduction be done twice?
Male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery, can be performed more than once, but it depends on the individual case and the reason for the second surgery. A second surgery may be necessary if the patient has recurrent gynecomastia, which is the reoccurrence of breast tissue after the initial surgery. This can happen if the underlying cause is not addressed, such as a hormonal imbalance or medication, or if the patient gains a significant amount of weight.
If a second surgery is needed, it’s important to have a candid conversation with your surgeon about your expectations, the risks and benefits of the surgery, and the potential outcomes. A qualified and experienced surgeon will be able to evaluate the case and discuss the possible outcome and risks with the patient.
It is important to remember that any surgical procedure carries some risks, and a second surgery may have additional risks, such as more scarring, changes in sensation, or difficulty achieving the desired results.
It’s also important to consider non-surgical options before opting for a second surgery, such as weight loss, hormone therapy or medication, or lifestyle changes.
FUNDING FOR MALE BREAST REDUCTION
Can I get gynecomastia surgery on the NHS?
Whether or not gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is available on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK depends on the specific policies of the local NHS trust and the assessment of the individual case by the medical team.
In general, gynecomastia surgery is considered to be a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by the NHS. However, in some cases, where the gynecomastia is causing significant distress, physical discomfort or is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, the surgery may be covered by the NHS.
It’s important to consult with a GP to discuss the options and be referred to a specialist. They will assess your case and determine if the surgery is medically necessary. If it is deemed necessary, the patient will be referred to a plastic surgeon who will further evaluate the case and provide a recommendation.
It’s important to note that the waiting time for the surgery on the NHS can be long, and the availability of the procedure can vary depending on the region and the local NHS trust’s policies. In some cases, patients may choose to have the surgery done privately at a reputable plastic surgery clinic, which can be more expensive but provides more flexibility in terms of scheduling.
Is gynecomastia surgery worth it?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, can be a highly effective way to improve the appearance of the chest and reduce the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by gynecomastia. However, whether or not the surgery is worth it depends on your individual condition and goals.
It’s important to consider non-surgical options such as weight loss, hormone therapy or medication, or lifestyle changes before considering surgery. These options may be effective in reducing breast tissue and improving the appearance of the chest.
If non-surgical options have not been successful or if you have a significant amount of breast tissue, surgery may be an appropriate option. Surgery can remove excess fat and breast tissue, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest.
It’s important to have a candid conversation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to understand the risks and benefits of the surgery, the recovery time and the final results. It’s also important to have realistic expectations and understand that there may be some scarring or changes in sensation in the breast area, which is normal after surgery.
It’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and make a decision that is right for you. Ultimately, the decision to undergo gynecomastia surgery should be based on your individual needs and goals.
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Which celebrities have had gynecomastia surgery?
Many celebrities have had gynecomastia surgery, but most of them do not publicly disclose it. In general, celebrities do not publicly share their health information and plastic surgery procedures they have undergone. It’s also important to remember that many people have gynecomastia, and not all of them choose to have surgery or to go public with it.
However, some celebrities have been open about their surgery and have spoken publicly about their experience. Some examples include:
- Simon Cowell: The music producer and television personality has been open about his gynecomastia surgery, stating that he had it done to improve his appearance and boost his confidence.
- 50 Cent: The rapper and actor has spoken publicly about his surgery and has said that he had the surgery done to improve his appearance and boost his confidence.
- Jack Osbourne: The television personality has said that he had gynecomastia surgery after losing a significant amount of weight.
- John Travolta: The actor has been open about his surgery and has said that he had it done to improve his appearance and boost his confidence.
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It’s important to remember that every individual’s decision and reasons for surgery are personal, and it’s not a matter of comparison. It’s a matter of personal choice.
Male breast reduction at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is the leading plastic surgery clinic in London and is considered one of the top centres for gynecomastia surgery in the UK. Our plastic surgeons have years of experience in the treatment of all grades of gynecomastia, from mild to severe. Book a collection by calling us on 020 7993 4849 or complete the contact form below, and one of our patient coordinators will be more than happy to book you in.
