Male breast reduction surgery (gynaecomastia)

What is male breast reduction surgery?

Some men develop enlarged breast tissue in one or both breasts, known sometimes as ‘man boobs’, a condition clinically known as gynaecomastia. This can be caused by a hormonal imbalance or by significant weight gain, which can increase oestrogen levels and lead to the growth of breast tissue.

Male breast reduction surgery is a treatment option for gynaecomastia. It may also be recommended for men who have experienced major weight loss and are left with excess skin or sagging in the chest area.

Our plastic surgery specialists at Guy’s Hospital and St Thomas’ Hospital have extensive experience in male breast reduction surgery and provide personalised treatment tailored to your individual needs.

What to expect during gynaecomastia surgery

Our private male breast reduction surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic. In some cases, local anaesthetic with sedation may be used.

Gynaecomastia surgery involves making an incision around the nipple to cut away excess fatty tissue or alternatively use liposuction to suck it out. Depending on how much breast tissue is removed, the nipples may require repositioning after.

The operation takes between 60 and 90 minutes. You’ll be given pain relief if you experience any discomfort afterwards.

You are usually required to stay in hospital overnight.

Book an appointment with our plastic surgeons to discuss male breast reduction surgery.

Gynaecomastia surgery recovery

It can take several weeks to fully recover from breast reduction surgery. You may need to take a few days off work. You may have sore, swollen and bruised breasts for a few weeks.

You’ll need to wear an elasticated compression garment day and night for 1 to 2 weeks after the operation. This helps support your chest while it heals.

How long you need to keep the dressings on will depend on how quickly your wounds heal. After 1 to 2 weeks, your stitches will either dissolve or be removed.

Avoid stretching, strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about 3 weeks after the operation. It will take about 6 weeks until you can return fully to your normal activities.

Gynaecomastia surgery risks

The majority of male breast reduction surgeries are successful. However, as with all surgical procedures there is the possibility of problems occurring, including:

• scarring around the breast area
• change in the feel of the breast e.g. developing lumps, bruising or swelling
• changes in breast shape or nipples
• nerve problems in the nipples – they may become more sensitive, less sensitive, or completely numb; this can be temporary or permanent
• bleeding inside the breast tissue (haematoma)

Your surgeon will be able to tell you more about these risks, including how likely they are and how they’ll be corrected if you have them.

If you would like to discuss the risks and benefits of male breast reduction surgery, we can help. Contact our team to arrange an appointment with one of our plastic surgery specialists.