Gynecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Reduction)

How Gynecomastia Surgery is Performed?

Self-Diagnosis of Gynecomastia

• Notice any unusual enlargement or swelling around your nipples.
• Feel for a firm, round lump or button-like tissue beneath the nipple area—this is usually glandular tissue.
• Check if the lump feels harder and more defined than regular chest fat.
• Observe if the breast area looks swollen but still maintains a distinct shape.
• Look out for any nipple discharge, which can sometimes occur with glandular tissue growth.
• Check whether the swelling is on one side only (unilateral gynecomastia) or both sides.

Diagnosis by Doctor

Consult a plastic or cosmetic surgeon experienced in male gynecomastia for the diagnosis. The doctor will perform a physical examination, with the patient lying on their back, to carefully assess the chest.

The examination includes:

• Checking the breasts for size, shape, and firmness.
• Performing a pinch test around the nipple and areola to feel for a disk-shaped mound of tissue, which indicates true glandular enlargement.
• Examine the armpits and breasts for any enlarged lymph nodes.
• Besides the physical check, your doctor may recommend further tests. It helps to understand your overall health and the underlying cause. These tests help rule out other conditions and decide the best management plan.

Recommended Tests

• Blood Tests: These analyse hormone levels, including testosterone, oestrogen, and other hormones. These hormones might cause male breast development. Abnormal hormone levels are often a main gynecomastia cause.
• Urine Tests: These can also assess hormone levels and detect any underlying conditions affecting the body’s balance.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be suggested to provide detailed images of the breast tissue. These tests help distinguish between fatty tissue and glandular tissue, as well as detect any unusual growths.
• Mammogram: Used primarily to screen for breast cancer, this test looks for hard masses or microcalcifications in the breast. Although rare in men, breast cancer can mimic gynecomastia.
• Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of breast tissue to examine under a microscope. It is reserved for cases where cancer or other abnormalities are suspected rather than routine diagnosis.

Note: Pristyn Care does not recommend imaging tests for diagnosing gynecomastia. These include X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and mammograms. If necessary, the doctor may advise these tests for further evaluation.

Post-Procedure Care

Following a gynecomastia operation, proper post-procedure care is important for proper healing. Here is what patients can expect after male breast surgery:

Immediate Aftercare Instructions

• Compression Garment: You will be advised to wear a compression vest for a few weeks after surgery. This helps minimise swelling, supports the chest, and promotes proper breast reshaping.
• Pain & Discomfort Management: Mild discomfort, bruising, or tightness around the chest is normal in the early days. Your gynecomastia doctor may prescribe pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines to ease symptoms.
• Wound Care: Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Our team will guide you on proper hygiene and dressing changes to avoid infection and aid recovery.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous workouts, and upper-body exercises for at least 4 weeks. Light daily activities can typically be resumed within 2-3 days post-gynecomastia removal.
• Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-ups help to monitor healing, and assess your chest fat removal results.

Recovery Timeline

• Week 1: Swelling and bruising start to reduce. Most patients can return to desk jobs and light tasks.
• Week 2-3: Compression garments should still be worn. Moderate activity may be resumed.
• Week 4-6: Most restrictions are lifted. Chest shape improves significantly, and final results begin to appear.
• 3 Months and Beyond: Full healing with natural-looking results from men’s chest reduction.

Additional Recovery Tips

• Hydration & Nutrition: Eat a healthy diet rich in protein and stay well hydrated to aid tissue repair.
• Avoid Smoking & Alcohol: Both can slow down healing and increase the risk of complications after gynecomastia.
• Sleep Position: Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated for at least 1-2 weeks to reduce swelling.
• Weight Maintenance: Maintaining a stable weight after surgery is important, especially in cases of pseudo-gynecomastia, to avoid recurrence.

Long-Term Outcomes

• The results of gynecomastia treatment are long-lasting when paired with a healthy lifestyle.
• Surgery for unilateral gynecomastia ensures a symmetrical and natural chest contour.
• Whether dealing with stage 1 gynecomastia or a more developed condition, mammaplasty and liposuction can reduce breast size and restore confidence.
• For patients looking for a gynecomastia solution without surgery, lifestyle changes and medication may be explored. These help to treat mild or pseudo-gynecomastia.