Some men might experience gynecomastia, a condition where the breast tissue enlarges. In such cases, gynecomastia (male breast reduction) surgery might be an option. This procedure focuses on adjusting the chest contours according to personal objectives and medical recommendations.
Dr. Tim Papadopoulos leads our Sydney clinic and offers male breast reduction procedures to individuals who feel this might be the right course for them. It’s essential to remember that the decision to undergo any surgery is a personal one and should not be influenced by societal norms or expectations. It’s one of the ways people choose to manage changes in their bodies, and we believe you should consider all available options, including changes in lifestyle habits, your mindset around your body, and non-surgical options to manage these changes.
Our team is dedicated to providing a professional, respectful, and patient-focused approach, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your personal objectives and overall wellbeing.
Gynecomastia (male breast reduction) surgery is a procedure that can address gynecomastia, a condition where the breast tissue enlarges in men.
The surgery can involve lipoplasty (liposuction), excision (removal of tissue), or a combination of both, depending on the individual’s situation and objectives.
The procedure length varies based on the extent of tissue removal and individual circumstances.
It’s suitable for individuals who are at a stable weight, in good health, and have realistic expectations about the results.
Post-surgery, patients might need to wear a compression garment to support the healing process and help achieve the best possible results.
Recovery times can vary widely and depend on the individual’s health, the extent of the surgery, and other factors.
Please note that these facts are general in nature, and specific details may vary based on individual circumstances. We encourage patients to have a detailed consultation with Dr. Tim to fully understand the procedure.
Risks of Gynecomastia surgery
Gynecomastia surgery is generally safe when performed by a certified and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Tim. However, as with any surgical procedure, it does carry some potential risks. It’s crucial that patients are fully aware of these possible complications, which can include:
Adverse Reaction to Anaesthesia: Like all procedures requiring anaesthesia, there’s a risk of complications such as allergic reactions and problems with breathing.
Bleeding (Hematoma): Although rare, excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur. In some cases, another surgery may be required to control the bleeding or to remove a blood collection (hematoma).
Infection: Any surgical procedure carries the risk of infection. While rare, if an infection does occur, it’s typically within a few days of surgery. Infections are usually treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, additional surgery may be required.
Scarring: Incision lines from gynecomastia surgery are permanent but are typically placed in areas that can be easily concealed. Scarring can be more pronounced in some patients due to individual healing characteristics.
Changes in Skin Sensation: After surgery, you may experience numbness or other changes in skin sensation around the chest area. This usually improves within a few months, but in some cases, it can be permanent.
Asymmetry in Chest Contour or Nipple Position: While Dr Tim takes every surgery very seriously, and makes every effort to create a symmetrical appearance, sometimes variations can occur due to differences in healing or the extent of the gynecomastia prior to surgery.
Poor Wound Healing or Skin Loss: In rare cases, the skin on or around the chest area may not heal normally and may die off. This is more common in smokers or those with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes.
Seroma: Fluid may accumulate under the skin following surgery, creating a condition known as seroma. If this occurs, further treatment may be required to drain the fluid.
Dr. Tim will discuss these potential risks with you during your consultation, and you should ask if there are any additional risks or complications that may apply to you. It’s important to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Tim to minimise the likelihood of these risks.
Recovery from gynecomastia surgery
The recovery period after gynecomastia surgery can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific techniques used during the procedure. Dr. Tim’s expertise and personalised care aim to provide comprehensive guidance to each patient during the post-operative period. Here is a general timeline and what to expect during your recovery:
Immediate Post-Surgery
After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area to be closely monitored. You may feel groggy from the anaesthesia and experience discomfort in the chest area. A friend or family member will need to drive you home and ideally stay with you for the first 24 hours.
First Few Days
Expect to feel some pain, swelling, and bruising. The pain can be effectively managed with prescribed medications. Dr. Tim will provide you with specific post-operative care instructions, including how to care for your surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow up with Dr. Tim.
First Few Weeks
Over the next two to four weeks, your chest will continue to heal, and you can gradually resume normal activities as advised by Dr. Tim. You will be asked to wear a compression garment around your chest to help reduce swelling and support your new chest contour.
After One Month
Most patients can return to normal activities and gentle exercise after one month. However, you should continue to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting until given clearance by Dr. Tim.
Long-Term
Over the next several months, your chest will settle into its new shape. Any residual swelling will resolve, and incision lines will fade, becoming less noticeable over time.
Throughout your recovery period, it’s crucial to attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Tim, who will monitor your healing progress, provide advice, and answer any questions you may have. Remember that everyone’s body is different, and individual results can vary.
