Gynecomastia surgery is usually performed when breast enlargement in men (usually due to excess glandular tissue, but often also fatty tissue) causes either physical discomfort or, more often, significant psychological distress. Here you will find the most important information on causes, surgical methods, procedure, risks, and aftercare:
🔍 What is gynecomastia?
True gynecomastia
Enlargement of breast glandular tissue due to hormonal imbalance.
Pseudogynecomastia (lipomastia)
Tightening of the deeper tissue layers for longer-lasting results
Important
Before surgery, it is important to clarify which type of gynecomastia is present, as treatment varies.
🛠️ Surgical methods
Liposuction (fat removal)
Often used for pseudogynecomastia with fat accumulation (lipomatosis).
Smaller skin incisions, fewer Scars
Vibration- or ultrasound-assisted liposuction is often advisable
Gland removal (subcutaneous mastectomy)
Required for true gynecomastia
Removal via an incision at the lower edge of the nipple (periareolar)
Often in combination with liposuction for shaping
Skin tightening (for severe skin sagging)
Necessary for severe gynecomastia or after significant weight loss
Leads to larger scars (e.g., anchor incision or T-incision)
🏥 Surgical procedure
Duration: Approx. 1–2 hours
Anesthesia: Usually general anesthesia, possibly local anesthesia with twilight sleep for minor procedures
Outpatient or inpatient: Depending on the severity and method, often possible on an outpatient basis
⚠️ Risks and complications
Bruises, swelling, pain
Infections, impaired wound healing
Asymmetries (rare)
Scarring
Numbness of the nipple (usually temporary)
Rare: Bleeding, seroma formation (accumulation of wound fluid)
🩹 Aftercare
Compression vest: Wear for 4–6 weeks to minimize swelling and stabilize the result
Rest: Avoid physical exertion and exercise for several weeks
Follow-up: Regular doctor visits to check the wound
Final result: Visible after approximately 3–6 months
Often affects approximately 30–70% of men
🩺 Specialist consultation
Plastic and aesthetic surgeons are the right people to contact
A proper diagnosis (ultrasound, hormone levels if necessary) is important to distinguish true gynecomastia from pseudogynecomastia
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