Gynaecomastia
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Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
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 plastic surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast
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.
*Disclaimer – All patients have consented to their images being published. These images are no guarantee of any individual surgical outcome, individual results may vary. Any surgery or invasive procedure carries risks. This surgery has been performed by Dr Andrew Hadj registered Board-Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon (MED0001205402)
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.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
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.
If you are an adult and you have persistent enlarged glandular or non-glandular tissue of the chest wall, surgery may be an option.
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: Shop 9/109 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Waters. I operate at
Gynaecomastia procedure explained by plastic surgeon Andrew Hadj
How is gynaecomastia surgery performed?
Gynaecomastia surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic. The procedure may involve removing firm glandular tissue from behind the nipple, using liposuction to reduce fatty tissue around the chest, or a combination of both.
Small incisions are placed as discreetly as possible, and the chest is supported with dressings and compression afterwards. The exact approach depends on your chest shape, skin quality and the type of tissue being treated.
For many men, the most helpful thing is understanding what actually happens on the day of surgery; from anaesthetic and incision placement through to compression and early recovery.
While surgery can provide a long-term change in chest contour, individual results may vary, and factors such as weight fluctuations can influence outcomes.
During gynaecomastia surgery, Dr Andrew Hadj may remove glandular tissue, use liposuction to reduce fatty tissue, or combine both techniques. The procedure is planned around your chest shape and the type of tissue causing the fullness.
You can read more about each part of the operation on the gynaecomastia procedure page.
Most men need about 1 week away from desk-based work after gynaecomastia surgery. Heavy lifting, gym training and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for around 4 weeks. A compression vest is commonly worn for 4 weeks; strictly for the first 2 weeks, then at night for another 2 weeks.
You can read the full recovery timeline on the gynaecomastia recovery page.
Gynaecomastia recovery | Gold Coast & 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.
Working, bathing, exercising and driving?
- Working is usually fine after 1 week.
- Bathing and showering are fine after 36 hours.
- Driving is fine after 48 hours.
- You can do light exercise after 1 week (walking). Heavy exercise (gym) after 4 weeks.
Gynaecomastia surgery risks
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.
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.
Gynaecomastia surgery cost Brisbane & Gold Coast
How much does gynaecomastia surgery cost?
The cost of gynaecomastia surgery 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.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane & Gold Coast, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
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.
Gynaecomastia surgery Brisbane & Gold Coast
Understanding gynaecomastia and male breast reduction surgery
Gynaecomastia before and after photos
These images show examples of male breast reduction surgery performed by Dr Andrew Hadj. Every patient’s chest shape, skin, tissue and healing process is different, so your own outcome may vary.
Before and after images are shown with patient consent. They are intended as general examples only and do not guarantee a specific result.
