Medically reviewed by Mr Hyder Ridha, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon
Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery, also called, male breast reduction, removes excess breast skin, tissue or fat to create a flatter, more masculine chest
Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, is a condition that affects many men, causing embarrassment and self-consciousness.
Fortunately, gynecomastia surgery with an expert breast surgeons like Mr Hyder Ridha can address this issue by removing excess skin, glandular tissue and fat to create a flatter, more masculine chest.
At HR Plastic Surgery we are committed to helping you achieve a flatter, more masculine chest and renewed confidence in your appearance.
Gynaecomastia surgery removes excess skin, glandular tissue and fat to create a flatter, more masculine chest.
At a Glance
Surgery time
1-1.5 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthetic
Hospital stay
Day case
Recovery
2 weeks scar healing; 6 weeks total recovery
Bras and garments?
Chest garment for 6 weeks
Sleeping on back
4 weeks
Sexual activity
4 weeks
Scar healing
2 weeks
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a common condition characterised by the enlargement of male breast tissue, which can affect men of all ages. The condition can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, obesity, certain medications, and the natural ageing process.
Understanding the causes of Gynecomastia, and the risks and benefits of Gynaecomastia surgery can make you feel more confident about your decision. This guide helps you explore the key factors.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can be caused by various factors, including
- hormonal imbalances
- obesity
- certain medications
- the natural ageing process.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
Unsightly and uncomfortable fat and breast tissue can successfully be removed with male breast reduction surgery.
Undergoing gynecomastia surgery can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved appearance
Gynaecomastia surgery can effectively remove excess breast tissue and fat, resulting in a flatter, more masculine chest appearance. - Increased comfort
Men with enlarged breasts often experience physical discomfort, such as chafing or irritation when wearing tight clothing or engaging in physical activities.
Gynaecomastia surgery can alleviate these discomforts by reducing the size of the breasts. - Increased self-confidence
Gynaecomastia correction can enhance confidence in appearance and help patients feel more comfortable in social situations.
Risks of Gynecomastia Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, gynecomastia surgery carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:
- Infection
A possible infection at the incision or treatment site that may require antibiotics or additional care. - Bleeding
Bleeding can occur during or after surgery and may need monitoring or treatment. - Scarring
All surgery results in scars, which typically fade over time but remain permanent. - Changes in sensation
Temporary or sometimes longer-lasting changes in nipple or chest sensation. - Asymmetry
A difference between the two sides of the chest after healing. - Poor wound healing
Incisions may heal slower than expected or require additional wound care.
To minimise these risks, it is crucial to choose a highly experienced and qualified surgeon for your gynaecomastia surgery.
Following aftercare instructions and attending all follow-up appointments can also help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Who is a good candidate male breast reduction?
Men of any age who are healthy and in good physical shape are good candidates for male breast reduction surgery. If you are close to your ideal weight, it’s helpful as obese candidates would be asked to lose weight. Being a non-smoker is essential as smoking increases the risks of the procedure and leads to poorer aesthetic result. Finally, having realistic expectations, result in greater satisfaction with the outcome of the procedure.
Related Conditions
Breast
Moobs – Man Boobs
Man boobs is a condition where a man’s breast area grows larger than expected.
Book a Consultation
Take the first step toward your ideal look by booking a consultation with our expert surgeon.
Understanding what male breast reduction surgery involves, can help you feel more confident and prepared for your journey.
The procedure is carefully planned to achieve the results you desire, whilst keeping your safety and comfort paramount.
From your initial consultation to recovery, each step is designed to offer a smooth experience. We outline below what you can expect from the process.
Consultation
If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, the first step is to schedule a consultation with our qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, Mr Hyder Ridha. At HR Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on our compassionate and patient-centred approach to care.
During your consultation, Mr Ridha will discuss your goals and concerns, assess your suitability for gynecomastia surgery, and recommend the most appropriate surgical technique to achieve your desired outcome. In addition, you will be provided with any relevant preoperative instructions to help you prepare for the surgery, which may include recommendations on smoking cessation, medication adjustments, and any necessary lifestyle changes.
How is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?
- Anaesthesia
Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately one to two hours. - Assessment of technique
The technique used will depend on the patient’s unique needs. The two most common approaches are liposuction and excision. - Liposuction
If excess fat is the main cause of breast enlargement, liposuction may be used to remove the fat and contour the chest.
A small incision is made, and a thin, hollow tube (cannula) is inserted to suction out the fat. - Excision
If excess glandular tissue is the main cause, an excision technique may be used.
An incision around the areola is made to remove the excess tissue.
Excess skin can also be removed if necessary through the same incision. - Combination technique
In some cases, a combination of liposuction and excision is used to achieve the desired result.
Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery Timeline
| First week | Swelling, bruising and discomfort in the treated area are expected. These symptoms are typically mild and usually subside within a week. |
| Within 1 week | Most patients can return to work within a week, depending on the nature of their job and individual recovery. |
| Up to 6 weeks | Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks to support healing. |
| During recovery | Patients will be given specific aftercare instructions, which may include wearing a chest support garment to minimise swelling, taking prescribed pain medication as directed, and following general wound-care guidance. |
Gynecomastia Surgery Before and After Pictures
The choice to have male breast reduction surgery is a personal decision. It can be useful to see previous before and after results to understand what you can expect and help you to make up your mind.
The choice to have male breast reduction surgery is a personal decision. It can be useful to see previous before and after results to understand what you can expect and help you to make up your mind.
What is the cost of gynecomastia surgery?
Prices from
£7200
The cost of gynecomastia surgery in the UK will vary with the complexity of the male breast reduction procedure. At your consultation, we’ll provide you with a personalised surgical quote, including all associated fees. You can find more information on our pricing and payment plans pages, otherwise please get in touch with our team and we’ll gladly discuss your options for male chest reduction.
FAQs
Is it worth getting gynecomastia surgery?
Whether or not it is worth getting gynecomastia surgery is a personal decision that depends on the individual’s goals and expectations.
The physical and emotional benefits must outweigh the risks associated with the procedure.
It is, therefore, important to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with your surgeon to assist you in informed decision-making.
How painful is gynecomastia surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed as a day case under general anaesthetic, so you should not experience any pain during the surgery itself.
The recovery period afterwards can be uncomfortable and involve some pain, but this is managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
How long does recovery take?
The recovery time for gynecomastia surgery can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and your healing process. Generally, patients can expect to take up to 1 week off from work with full recovery taking up to 6 weeks.
Do male breast reduction results last indefinitely?
While the results of male breast reduction surgery are typically permanent, there is still a chance that the condition may recur over time due to hormonal changes or other factors such as weight gain.
What kind of results can I expect from a male breast reduction procedure?
Results will be noticeable immediately after the procedure and will become more evident as the swelling subsides. Final results may take up to 3 months to be achieved.
Can I exercise after having male breast reduction done?
Exercise is not recommended for at least 6 weeks post male breast reduction surgery. You should get clearance from your surgeon before resuming an exercise routine.
Is having a male breast reduction procedure safe?
Generally, reduction surgery for gynaecomastia is safe and most patients have smooth recoveries. Despite the greatest attention to safety on the part of the patient and surgeon, complications may occur. Common complications include bruising, bleeding, fluid collections, contour irregularities, loss of nipple skin, visible scarring, numbness of the nipples, inverted nipples, loose breast skin and asymmetry.
Can I get gynecomastia surgery near me?
Males wanting gynecomastia surgery near to you are ideally placed in the London and Hertfordshire areas to access our plastic surgery clinics. But many males may travel further due to the skills of Mr Hyder Ridha.
Access essential resources & information at your convenience.
Browse our collection of brochures, guides, and forms to learn more about our procedures, prepare for your visit, or explore your options. Simply download what you need to get started.
Breast Reduction Patient Leaflet
Preparing Safely for Surgery
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