Gynaecomastia (Male Breast Reduction)

what is gynaecomastia ...

Gynaecomastia, the enlargement of male breast tissue, is a condition that can affect individuals at various stages of life, including adolescence and adulthood. It may influence posture, clothing preferences, and physical comfort. Gynaecomastia surgery, also known as Male Breast Reduction surgery, is a procedure designed to remove excess glandular tissue and/or fatty deposits from the chest area. This condition can be caused by hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, genetics, or underlying medical conditions. In some cases, the tissue enlargement is primarily glandular; in others, it may involve a greater volume of fat, or both.

surgical techniques for gynaecomastia ...

Glandular Excision: Dense, fibrous breast tissue that may not be addressed through liposuction alone can be surgically removed via a small incision, typically positioned around the lower half of the areola. This allows targeted removal of glandular tissue and contributes to a flatter chest appearance.

Liposuction: Liposuction is used to remove excess fatty tissue and can help alter the overall proportions of the chest area. Our surgeons use techniques such as tumescent and power-assisted liposuction to reduce disruption to surrounding tissues during the procedure.

Dual Approach: In many cases, both glandular excision and liposuction are performed together. This dual technique allows for comprehensive changes to the chest by addressing both glandular and fatty components.

am I a suitable candidate ...

Gynaecomastia can affect adolescents and adults, but surgery is typically recommended once breast development has stabilised. Suitability for gynaecomastia surgery depends on several factors, including the cause and extent of tissue enlargement, overall health, and individual goals. Generally, individuals may be considered for surgery if they:

  • Have persistent enlargement of breast tissue that does not resolve with lifestyle or medical interventions.
  • Are at a stable weight and in good general health.
  • Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery.
  • Have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the surgical process and possible outcomes.

Gynaecomastia surgery is typically performed as a day procedure under general anaesthesia. The entire process usually takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the techniques involved.

  • Pre-operative Preparation: Before entering the operating theatre, patients meet with Dr Gary Kode and the anaesthetist to review the surgical plan and confirm any last details. The chest area is marked while the patient is standing to guide incision placement and tissue removal.
  • Anaesthesia: Once in the theatre, general anaesthesia is administered. This ensures the patient remains asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure.
  • Incision Placement: For liposuction, small incisions (typically less than 1 cm) are made, often along the chest wall or under the areola. For glandular excision, an incision is made around the lower border of the areola to access and remove dense breast tissue.
  • Tissue Removal: Liposuction is performed first, using a thin cannula to remove excess fatty tissue. If glandular excision is required, dense tissue beneath the nipple-areola complex is carefully dissected and removed. In some cases, both techniques are used to achieve a more comprehensive result.
  • Haemostasis and Closure: Bleeding is controlled before the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. The incisions are dressed with surgical tape or dressings to support healing.
  • Compression Garment: A medical compression garment is placed on the chest after surgery. This helps reduce swelling and supports the surgical area during initial recovery.
  • Post-operative Monitoring: Patients are monitored in recovery for a few hours before discharge.

Yes, you will require a GP referral. As of 1 July 2023, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requires all patients to obtain a referral from a GP (General Practitioner).

Following surgery, patients are fitted with a support garment, which is worn day and night for the first four weeks to reduce swelling and support the healing tissues, and then during the day for an additional two months. It assists in reducing fluid accumulation and maintaining the new chest appearance. Additional aspects of recovery include:

  • Drain Management: Surgical drains are only used when open excision is performed. These are typically removed within 24 hours to reduce the risk of fluid build-up and support early healing.
  • Scar Care: Hypafix tape may be applied to incision sites for up to 3 months, provided the chest is not excessively hairy, and no tape allergy develops. In some cases, silicone sheets or topical gels may be recommended to support scar maturation and help optimise cosmetic outcomes.
  • Activity Restrictions: For the first three weeks, patients are advised to avoid activities that increase heart rate, body temperature, or blood pressure. Heavy lifting, upper body exercises, and contact sports should be avoided for approximately four to six weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing.
  • Follow-up Schedule: Post-operative care includes regular reviews with your surgeon at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 3 months to monitor healing, manage any concerns, and assess results.

Most individuals can return to non-strenuous, office-based work within 7 to 10 days, although timelines may vary depending on the specifics of the procedure and personal recovery pace. Swelling gradually subsides, with the final results typically between 3 and 6 months after surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, Male Breast Reduction involves potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information. Risks and complications can include, but are not limited to:

  • Bleeding or haematoma formation: Blood pooling under the skin, which may require drainage.
  • Infection: Rare with appropriate perioperative antibiotics and sterile technique.
  • Changes in nipple or chest skin sensation: These changes may be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent.
  • Poor scarring: Scars can vary in appearance and occasionally become hypertrophic or keloid.
  • Asymmetry: Differences in symmetry may persist despite meticulous surgical technique.
  • Irregular shape or residual glandular tissue: May require revision surgery in a minority of cases.
  • Risk of recurrence: as the cause of the problem is mostly not identified, it may not be possible to prevent recurrence.

Surgical fees can vary between patients depending on the surgical plan and associated hospital and anaesthetic costs. A personalised quote is provided after consultation.

As a general guide, starting surgical fees are from $12,000 (excluding hospital and anaesthetist fees, where applicable).

Costs can vary depending on factors such as:

  • The complexity and duration of the procedure (for example, gland removal alone vs combining with liposuction, or skin tightening if needed)
  • Whether treatment is unilateral (one side) or bilateral (both sides)
  • Hospital or facility fees (and the hospital selected)
  • The type of anaesthetic and who administers it
  • Whether post-operative garments, pathology, and follow-up visits are included
  • Whether gynaecomastia surgery is combined with any other procedures

Gynaecomastia surgery is more commonly eligible for a Medicare rebate when it is true glandular gynaecomastia (not primarily related to obesity) and when the required clinical documentation is met.

If your surgery is considered cosmetic, it is typically not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. If you’d like help understanding whether Medicare may apply in your situation, please get in touch with Me Clinic, and our team can guide you through the usual steps.

FAQs ...

Gynaecomastia can result from hormonal changes, medication use, underlying health conditions, genetics, or lifestyle factors. Sometimes the cause remains unclear even after thorough evaluation.

A clinical examination with a surgeon can help differentiate true glandular gynaecomastia from pseudogynaecomastia, which is due to fat accumulation. Imaging tests may occasionally be used to aid in the diagnosis.

While weight loss can reduce excess fat in the chest area, true glandular tissue usually does not respond to exercise or diet changes. In such cases, surgical intervention may be recommended.

You will be able to see some changes within a few weeks, but final results typically take three to six months to become apparent, as it takes time for swelling to subside and tissue to fully settle.

Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely, wearing support garments as directed, attending all follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activity during the healing period are important factors in achieving optimal results.

why choose me clinic ...

With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.

We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.

Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.

Surgeons who perform Gynaecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) surgery at Me Clinic …

Book your Gynaecomastia consultation ...

If you are considering Gynaecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) surgery, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.

For all surgical procedures, you will need a valid GP Medical Referral to have a medical or cosmetic consultation with Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.

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