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Male gynecomastia surgery
Male breast enlargement, or gynecomastia, is a common condition affecting an estimated 40–60% of men. If breast enlargement causes pain or disrupts life, it is advisable to consult a plastic surgeon.
Specialist in the article
Plastiikkakirurgian erikoislääkäri
Revised 7/1/2025
Male gynecomastia surgery in brief
- Male breast enlargement can affect both or just one breast and may cause both cosmetic concerns and, in severe cases, pain or tenderness in the breasts.
- Gynecomastia is often treated with surgery, which removes excess glandular and fatty tissue.
- Male gynecomastia surgery, or glandular correction surgery, is a day surgery procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
What does male breast enlargement or gynecomastia mean?
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 often cosmetic and may be perceived as embarrassing, in addition to causing uncomfortable symptoms such as breast tenderness.
Breast enlargement can also occur in teenage boys due to hormonal development, as the glandular tissue grows. Being overweight exacerbates the condition, so healthy weight loss and increased physical activity may resolve the issue, making surgery unnecessary.
Preparing for male gynecomastia 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 includes a review of past and current illnesses, medications, supplements, herbal products, and previous surgeries.
- Physical examination. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon examines the breasts, assessing their size, shape, skin elasticity, and the position of the areolas. The doctor may also take photographs, which will be visible in OmaMehiläinen. The doctor may recommend a mammogram before surgery.
- Treatment options. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will discuss the appropriate technique for the procedure, the risks involved, and the necessary tests. The surgeon selects the surgical 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 from the surgery. Both before and after the surgery, you should avoid nicotine products for at least four weeks.
- Clothing. On the day of surgery, bring loose and comfortable clothing that you feel good in.
- Support. Ensure you have help for getting home and assistance with dressing, household chores, and shopping during recovery.
How male gynecomastia surgery proceeds
Breast enlargement is most often caused by excess glandular tissue, which is removed during surgery. If there is a significant amount of fatty tissue, the surgery may also include liposuction. Gynecomastia surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
During the procedure, a local anesthetic solution and small amounts of adrenaline are injected into the surgical area. This helps reduce bleeding, swelling, and fluid loss, as well as speeds up recovery.
In the recovery room, your condition is monitored, and pain medication is administered as needed. The expert staff ensures that post-surgery recovery proceeds as smoothly and safely as possible.
Male breast reduction surgery is typically a day surgery procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
Recovery from male gynecomastia surgery
- Movement and stitches. Avoid heavy physical work and exercise for 2–3 weeks. After surgery, the stitches either dissolve on their own or are usually removed within 1–2 weeks.
- Hygiene. You can shower normally the day after surgery. The wounds are often covered with surgical tape, which can get wet in the shower and usually stays in place until the stitches are removed or for about two weeks.
- Sauna. Avoid the sauna for at least a couple of weeks after the procedure. High heat can increase swelling and slow the healing process, so return to the sauna only when your attending physician gives permission.
- Support garment. After surgery, an elastic support garment is placed on the chest area and is typically worn for the first few weeks. The garment supports the tissues and helps reduce swelling. While initial swelling often subsides quickly, achieving the final result may take several months.
- Pain medication. Pain can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications prescribed individually by the surgeon. Medications should be used as directed, and potential interactions with other medications should be checked in advance.
- Discharge and support. Most male breast reduction surgeries are performed as day surgeries, 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 visit is usually 1–2 weeks after the procedure. Subsequent follow-up visits are typically three months and one year after surgery, 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 gynecomastia surgery
In male breast reduction surgery, excess fat and glandular tissue are removed from the chest, helping to achieve a flatter and firmer appearance. If there is excess fatty tissue in the chest, it can be removed with liposuction. If the issue is an enlarged glandular tissue, its removal requires a surgical procedure. The incision is usually made along the edge of the areola, but in cases of particularly large breasts, it may extend lower to the lower part of the gland. Excess skin is removed if necessary.
The surgery can improve the appearance of the chest and boost self-esteem, positively impacting quality of life. It can also make physical activity easier and reduce discomfort caused by large breasts. It is common for the surgery to help individuals feel more comfortable in clothing and social situations.
Surgery is not suitable for everyone; it is intended for men with gynecomastia, or breast enlargement, that has not resolved with other treatment methods. To qualify for surgery, one must be healthy and have realistic expectations about the results. A thorough evaluation is conducted before the surgery, taking into account health status, lifestyle, and potential risk factors.
Recovery typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual healing process. During the first few weeks, it is important to avoid heavy physical exertion and follow the doctor’s instructions, such as wearing supportive garments and taking care of the wound. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure that the healing process 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 the surgery, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to preserve the achieved results. In some cases, minor corrective surgeries may be needed if the appearance of the chest changes significantly.
The exact cost of breast reduction surgery depends on the extent of the procedure and the area being treated. The price typically includes the initial consultation, the procedure itself, any necessary hospital care, and follow-up appointments. A precise cost estimate can be obtained during a consultation with a plastic surgeon, once the scope and details of the procedure have been determined. Also, explore Mehiläinen’s flexible payment options.
