Gynaecomastia Surgery: Assessment, Options and Risks

Gynaecomastia surgery can reduce selected glandular tissue, fat and excess skin, but “safe” cannot be answered without reviewing the cause, health, procedure and individual risks.

Assessment before surgery

New, painful, one-sided or otherwise concerning breast changes should be medically assessed. The review may include health, medicines or substances, weight, hormones, duration, examination and investigations where indicated. Treating an underlying cause, observation or weight management may be appropriate before surgery.

Procedure choices

Liposuction may address selected fat; excision may be needed for glandular tissue or skin; some plans combine them. Incisions, nipple position, asymmetry and the possibility of residual tissue or contour irregularity should be discussed. The NHS male breast reduction guide explains that surgery is an option for gynaecomastia but is not suitable for every cause of a larger chest.

Risks and recovery

Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, delayed healing, altered nipple sensation, asymmetry, contour irregularity, visible scars, skin or nipple injury, blood clots, anaesthetic complications and revision. Swelling, garment use, work, exercise and final contour vary.

Confirm the contracted surgeon and hospital, planned technique, tests, pathology where relevant, anaesthesia, follow-up and complication arrangements. Read Revitalize’s male chest reduction guide, quotation information and assessment route.