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Male breast reduction surgery and gynecomastia
Male breast enlargement, or gynecomastia, is a common condition affecting an estimated 40–60% of men. If breast enlargement causes pain or disrupts life, you should consult a plastic surgeon.
Male breast reduction surgery in brief
- Male breast enlargement can affect both or just one breast and is most often a cosmetic concern.
- Gynecomastia is often treated with surgery to remove excess glandular and fatty tissue.
- Male breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
What is male breast enlargement, or gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, is a common condition affecting an estimated 40–60% of men. The issue can be corrected with surgery.
Gynecomastia can affect both or just one breast. The condition is most often purely cosmetic, but it can be perceived as embarrassing and cause uncomfortable symptoms.
For overweight men, healthy weight loss and increased physical activity can also improve the situation, potentially eliminating the need for surgery.
Breast enlargement can also occur in teenage boys due to hormonal development, leading to the growth of breast glands.
Preparing for male breast reduction surgery
- Consultation. The first step in breast reduction is a meeting with a plastic surgeon. During the consultation, aesthetic goals and any concerns about the procedure are discussed.
- Health assessment. The plastic surgeon will also assess your overall health. The consultation will cover past and current illnesses, medications, supplements, natural remedies, and previous surgeries.
- Physical examination. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon examines the breasts, assessing their size, shape, skin elasticity, and nipple placement. The doctor may also take photographs, which will be visible in OmaMehiläinen. The doctor may recommend a mammogram before surgery.
- Treatment options. The plastic surgeon will review the appropriate technique for the procedure, the risks involved, and the necessary tests. The surgeon selects the fat removal technique based on individual characteristics, physical needs, and aesthetic goals.
- Instructions. Following the plastic surgeon's instructions is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome of the surgery. Smoking should be avoided for at least four weeks before and after surgery.
- Clothing. Bring loose and comfortable clothing on the day of surgery that is easy to wear.
- Support. Ensure you have help for returning home and assistance during recovery with dressing, household chores, and shopping.
How male breast reduction surgery proceeds
Breast enlargement is most often caused by excess glandular tissue, which is removed during surgery. If the amount of fatty tissue is significant, the surgery may also include liposuction. Male breast reduction surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
During the procedure, a local anesthetic solution and small amounts of adrenaline are injected into the fatty tissue. This helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and fluid loss and speeds up recovery.
In the recovery room, your condition is monitored, and pain medication is provided as needed. The professional staff ensures that post-operative recovery proceeds as smoothly and safely as possible.
Male breast reduction surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
Recovery from male breast reduction surgery
- Movement and stitches. You can get up and walk around the day after surgery. Heavy physical work and exercise should be avoided for 2–3 weeks. Stitches are removed about 1–2 weeks after surgery or dissolve on their own.
- Hygiene. You can shower normally the day after surgery. The wounds are usually covered with surgical tape, which can get wet and should remain in place until the stitches are removed or for 1–2 weeks.
- Sauna. Sauna use is generally recommended to be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery. The heat can increase swelling and slow down healing, so it is important to wait until the surgeon gives permission.
- Support garment. An elastic support garment is worn during the first few weeks after surgery. Its use helps reduce swelling in the chest area. Swelling decreases significantly during the first few weeks, but it may take a few months for the final results to become visible.
- Pain medication. The surgeon may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to manage post-operative pain. These should be used as directed, ensuring they are safe to use with any existing prescription medications. Pain typically subsides within a few days.
- Discharge and support. Most male breast reduction surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can go home the same day. You will need an escort for the journey home. During the first 24 hours at home, you will need assistance.
- Follow-up. The first follow-up appointment is usually 1–2 weeks after surgery. Subsequent follow-ups are typically at three months and one year, during which the plastic surgeon evaluates the long-term results.
- Sick Leave. Sick leave is usually needed for a few days, depending on the type of work.
Prices for appointments with specialists, such as gynaecologists, dermatologists, cardiologists, orthopaedists and ophthalmologists, can be found in our appointment booking service.
Take into account in the price list
The price estimate includes the Kanta fee and the outpatient fee.| Service | Price estimate |
|---|---|
| Appointment with a specialist, 20 min Price per appointment. | from 99,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 129,80 € |
| Appointment with a specialist, 30 min Price per appointment. | from 114,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 144,80 € |
| Appointment with a specialist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 142,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 172,80 € |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 20 min | from 69,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 139,80 € |
| Gynaecologist's appointment, 30 min | from 74,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 144,80 € |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 20 min | from 117,70 € Without Kela reimbursement from 147,70 € |
| Dermatologist's appointment, 30 min | from 127,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 157,80 € |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 20 min | from 112,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 142,80 € |
| ENT doctor's appointment, 30 min | from 133,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 163,80 € |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 20 min | from 115,20 € Without Kela reimbursement from 145,20 € |
| Paediatrician's appointment, 30 min | from 134,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 164,80 € |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 20 min | from 111,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 141,80 € |
| Orthopaedist's appointment, 30 min | from 133,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 163,80 € |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 45 min Price per appointment. | from 109,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 159,80 € |
| Appointment with a psychiatrist, 60 min Price per appointment. | from 120,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 180,80 € |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 30 min | from 127,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 157,80 € |
| Ophthalmologist's appointment, 45 min | from 138,80 € Without Kela reimbursement from 168,80 € |
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Frequently asked questions about male breast reduction surgery
During male breast reduction surgery, excess fat and glandular tissue are removed from the chest, helping to achieve a flatter and firmer appearance. Fat in the chest can be removed with liposuction, but enlarged glandular tissue must be removed surgically. The incision is usually made at the edge of the areola, but for particularly large breasts, it may also extend lower on the gland. Excess skin is removed if necessary.
The surgery can improve the appearance of the chest and boost self-esteem, which can positively impact quality of life. It can also make physical activity easier and reduce discomfort caused by large breasts. It is common for the surgery to make individuals feel more comfortable in clothing and social situations.
Breast reduction surgery can provide significant psychological and physical benefits for trans men. The surgery can strengthen gender identity by helping the body better align with one’s gender experience. It can also reduce gender dysphoria, the intense distress associated with gender incongruence, and improve mental well-being.
Physically, the surgery can increase comfort and ease daily life. Exercise may feel easier, and clothing fits better, enabling the use of more masculine clothing. The surgery can also reduce concerns about being perceived as female, facilitating social adaptation. The benefits are individual and depend on needs and preferences.
The surgery is not suitable for everyone; it is intended for men with gynecomastia, or breast enlargement, that has not been corrected with other treatments. To qualify for surgery, one must be healthy and have realistic expectations about the results. A thorough assessment is conducted before surgery, considering health status, lifestyle, and potential risk factors.
Recovery usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual healing process. During the first weeks, it is important to avoid heavy physical exertion and follow the doctor’s instructions, such as wearing supportive garments and caring for the wound. Regular follow-ups help ensure that recovery is progressing as expected.
The results are generally permanent, but weight fluctuations or hormonal changes can affect the appearance of the chest over time. After surgery, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to preserve the results. In some cases, minor corrective surgeries may be needed if the chest’s appearance changes significantly.
