Gynaecomastia Surgery

Last updated March 2024

Male breast gynaecomastia

Male breast gynaecomastia (also spelt gynecomastia) refers to the enlargement of glandular breast tissue in males. Gynaecomastia can occur due to hormonal imbalances, specifically an increase in estrogen levels relative to testosterone levels. This can be physiological (normal) or can be, less commonly, pathological. Pathological causes of gynaecomastia include; Klinefelter’s syndrome, cirrhosis of the liver, testicular tumours, prolactin excess, or are medication related. Gynaecomastia can develop during infancy, adolescence, or later in life, and it may affect one or both breasts.

Determine if it is gynaecomastia or fat

To determine whether it is gynaecomastia or excess fat, a doctor will need to first take a history from you. Most people who have gynaecomastia are asymptomatic, however, symptoms such as; nipple discharge, loss of peripheral vision, sexual dysfunction, and infertility, may indicate an underlying hormonal disturbance and possible cause of the gynaecomastia. A family history of gynaecomastia may also be common in those with this condition.

An examination of your chest to determine the consistency of the chest tissue by your doctor is also important in determining whether your problem is due to gynaecomastia (glandular tissue) or whether it is fat. Usually, a series of blood tests (including hormone levels) are then performed. Finally, a CT scan, ultrasound, or ultrasound-guided biopsy may be requested to determine the nature of the tissue present.

Gynaecomastia Before and After Case Study 2

This man presented to the Victorian Cosmetic Institute wanting to reduce the size of his chest – something he reported he was unable to do despite his dieting and exercising.

Prior to treatment, blood tests and ultrasound were all found to be normal.

He underwent liposuction surgery with Dr Gavin Chan to treat his gynaecomastia.

The result below is only relevant for this patient and does not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience. The outcome of each procedure cannot be guaranteed, and individual results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Patient consent has been obtained to display these images.

Risks and side effects of gynaecomastia surgery

Liposuction is a common surgical procedure used to treat gynaecomastia by removing excess fat tissue from the breast area in males. While it can be a solution for many patients, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with gynaecomastia surgery.

• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites. Proper post-operative care and adherence to the post treatment instructions can help minimise this risk.
• Bleeding and hematoma: Liposuction involves the insertion of a cannula to suction out fat cells, which can result in bleeding. In some cases, this bleeding can lead to the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin), which may require additional treatment.
• Changes in skin sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in sensation, such as numbness or tingling, in the treated area.
• Irregular contours: While liposuction aims to create a smooth appearance, there is a risk of uneven or irregular results, particularly if too much or too little fat is removed.
• Fluid accumulation: Following liposuction, fluid may accumulate in the treated area, leading to swelling and discomfort. Draining the fluid may be necessary to alleviate these symptoms.
• Scarring: Although liposuction incisions are typically small and inconspicuous, there is still a risk of scarring, particularly if proper wound care is not maintained or if the patient has a history of hypertrophic or keloid scarring.
• Anesthesia risks: Liposuction is often performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, both of which carry their own risks, including allergic reactions and complications related to the administration of anesthesia.

While these risks are generally low, it’s important for patients considering liposuction for gynaecomastia to discuss their concerns and medical history with their doctor to ensure they are well-informed about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Will gynaecomastia go away?

In some cases, gynaecomastia may resolve on its own without the need for treatment, particularly if it occurs during puberty. During adolescence, hormonal fluctuations can lead to temporary breast tissue enlargement in some boys, which typically resolves within a few months to a couple of years as hormone levels stabilise.

However, gynaecomastia that persists beyond puberty or develops later in life may not resolve spontaneously. The likelihood of gynaecomastia going away depends on various factors, including the underlying cause, the individual’s age, and their overall health.

For example, if gynaecomastia is caused by certain medications, discontinuing the medication may lead to a reduction in breast tissue over time. Similarly, if the condition is related to lifestyle factors such as obesity or excessive alcohol consumption, making changes to improve overall health and lifestyle habits may help reduce the size of the male breasts.

In cases where gynaecomastia does not resolve on its own, medical treatment or surgical intervention may be necessary if the patient wishes to address the condition. Treatment options may include hormone therapy, medication to reduce breast tissue, or surgical procedures such as liposuction or glandular tissue removal.