Gynaecomastia

Everything you always wanted to ask your plastic surgeon before having male breast reduction surgery

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Plastic Surgery Queensland
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Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101

Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220

Some men experience persistent chest fullness despite exercise and a healthy lifestyle. This condition, called gynaecomastia, is common and affects approximately one in three men. For some individuals, surgical removal of excess glandular tissue or fat may be considered an option after consultation with a qualified medical practitioner.

Gynaecomastia Brisbane plastic surgeon

What is gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia is the excessive enlargement of the male breast. It may affect one or both breasts and this condition may cause significant emotional and psychological discomfort. Some men with gynaecomastia experience emotional discomfort related to their chest appearance and may seek medical advice to explore possible treatment options.

The most common causes of male breast enlargement include:

Hormone imbalance (your body produces too much oestrogen and not enough testosterone).
Side-effects of certain medications.
Illicit drug use.
Other medical conditions.

Surgery for gynaecomastia is for adult men who are fit and healthy and suitable for day surgery procedures. The procedure aims to remove excess glandular tissue and fat, if clinically indicated, to improve chest contour.

During your consultation we will talk about your goals and expectations as well as your individual reasons for gynaecomastia surgery. We will talk about the causes and explore whether certain medications or recreational drugs are associated with your condition. As with any type of surgery, we will also discuss your past medical history, past surgical history, allergies, the risk of surgery, potential complications and expected recovery after surgery.

Gynaecomastia is a condition that affects a significant number of men, with studies indicating that it may occur in up to one-third of the male population.

Am I a good candidate for gynaecomastia surgery?

If you are an adult and you have persistent enlarged glandular or non-glandular tissue of the chest wall, surgery may be an option.

How do I prepare for male breast reduction surgery?

The best preparation is to stay fit and healthy, minimising your alcohol intake and not smoking. It’s essential that you tell us which medications (blood-thinning drugs for example) you are taking, prior to your surgery.

Where do you operate?

I consult from my private rooms at Mater Private Clinic and I operate as a plastic surgeon at many private hospitals in Brisbane, Queensland.

I can see Gold Coast patients from my private rooms at John Flynn Medical Centre and I operate at

Gynaecomastia procedure explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj

Male breast reduction: step by step

A common approach includes direct glandular excision, often combined with liposuction, to address excess tissue. The duration and specifics of the procedure vary for each patient.

Step 1

Anaesthetic

First, you will meet the theatre team and anaesthetist. Then, you will be given a general anaesthetic.

Step 2

Incisions

Once you’re asleep we will start the procedure by marking the area and placing very small, inconspicuous hidden incisions to remove the glands. We will use the same incisions to perform liposuction and remove excess fat.

Step 3

Closing the incisions

The incisions are closed and you’ll be transferred to the recovery room.

Step 4

Result

Upon waking, a firm compression bandage will be used which can be changed after 24 hours to a fitted athletic sports vest. You will need to wear this vest for 4 weeks (2 weeks strictly, 2 weeks at night).

Are the results permanent?

While surgery can provide a long-term change in chest contour, individual results may vary, and factors such as weight fluctuations can influence outcomes.

Breast reduction recovery explained by Brisbane plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj

Recovery after gynaecomastia surgery

The recovery process is well tolerated. The first days after surgery, you can go for a light walk. You cannot do any heavy lifting and exercise for 4 weeks and this is critical to avoid excess swelling and bleeding in the chest.

Day 1-7

Postoperative swelling and bruising are expected, and final results may take time to become fully visible. Over the next days, the area will swell and that is normal. Your bruises will migrate down the chest, mostly due to liposuction.

Day 7

Most pain and discomfort will have settled by day 7.

Will I need to take medication after the procedure?

Pain relief and antibiotics are prescribed.

Working, bathing, exercising and driving?

Breast reduction surgery risks, explained by Andrew Hadj, Plastic Surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast

Risks and complications

The following risks are associated with male breast reduction surgery:

Bleeding.
Infection.
Scar.
Recurrence is possible with weight changes and over time some rebound breast tissue may form.
Some numbness is expected around the nipple which will settle over time. Permanent numbness is very unlikely.
Haematoma is the most concerning complication, seen in patients with bleeding conditions or often those who attend heavy lifting or sport too soon post-surgery. It is important to not do vigorous exercise for at least 4 weeks to minimise this risk.

Will I have scars?

We’ll use a specially designed incision to minimise the scar to hide it almost completely over time. We will discuss this with you at your consultation and we use dissolving sutures for this surgery.

Breast reduction surgery cost Brisbane & Gold Coast

What does the procedure cost?

The cost of this procedure varies based on individual circumstances. If you want more details, please don’t hesitate to contact my friendly team and ask about costs.

There are many low-cost surgery options both in Australia and overseas and great care should be taken when dealing with a surgeon who is not an ASPS / AHPRA / FRACS-recognised Plastic Surgeon.

Patients considering surgery should verify their surgeon’s qualifications. Specialist Plastic Surgeons are recognised by AHPRA and the Medical Board of Australia under the specialty of Surgery – Plastic Surgery. A plastic surgeon has undertaken over 12 years of post-medical specialist training. That’s an important indicator when it comes to choosing a plastic surgeon.

It’s also recommended to always seek second opinions if you have concerns. Ultimately you should feel comfortable with the plastic surgeon you are seeing.