Also known as gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery is the correction of over-developed or enlarged breasts in men. In basic terms, gynecomastia is an enlargement of the gland tissue of the male breast. Whilst most teenage boys experience some degree of breast enlargement affecting one or both breasts, by early adulthood less than 10% of males have a residual problem. This rises with age though, reaching approximately 30% in older men.
Female patients should visit the breast reduction page.
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Why you might need male breast reduction surgery
Enlarged breasts in men – sometimes referred to as man boobs or moobs – can cause a great deal of embarrassment for the individual. Whilst all men have breast tissue, some have an excessive amount and this can lead to the breasts resembling more of a female figure. Men can be fit and healthy and still have gynecomastia, and in most cases excessive amounts of exercise will not solve the problem.
You may be considering gynecomastia if you experience any of the following:
- You feel that your breasts are too large and it’s causing you anxiety
- You are in good shape and aren’t overweight, but your breasts are large in comparison to the rest of your body
- Despite regular physical exercise, your breasts remain oversized
For females who want to reduce the size of their breasts, a breast reduction procedure would be recommended. Females may also be interested in breast lift and breast augmentation.
Preparing for surgery
If you decide you want to go ahead with surgery, you will have a consultation with Mr Sherif Wilson FRCS (Plast) beforehand so he can talk you through exactly how the surgery works and what you can expect post surgery
What does this procedure involve?
Mr Wilson is a vastly experienced plastic surgeon, and following your consultation he will advise you on the best approach for your surgery.
The breast is made up of two main components, glandular tissue (firm and dense) and fatty tissue (soft). The ratio of glandular to fatty tissue in any breast varies from individual to individual and in gynaecomastia there may be an excess of both.
If there is predominantly a diffuse fatty enlargement of the breast, liposuction (closed surgery) is the usual treatment. This involves sucking out the tissue through a small tube inserted via a 3-4mm incision.
If excess glandular tissue is the primary cause of breast enlargement, it may need to be excised (removed) with a scalpel (open surgery). This will leave a scar, usually around the nipple edge. This excision can be performed alone or in conjunction with liposuction. Major reductions that involve the removal of a significant amount of tissue and skin may require larger incisions that result in more obvious scars.
Most operations take about 90 minutes to complete and are performed under general anaesthesia. Patients are normally able to return home the same day although may be required to stay in hospital for one or two nights.
Before and after gallery
After surgery
Following this surgery the chest is swollen and bruised. To help reduce swelling, patients are often instructed to wear an elastic pressure garment continuously for at least 6 weeks post-surgery. You will be reviewed at 6 weeks and then be advised whether you can stop wearing it, or if it would be recommended to wear it for an extra week or two depending on the healing process.
It is advisable to refrain from exercise for about two weeks and, in general, it takes about six weeks before one can return to completely normal activities. It is advised to take at least one week off work following the surgery and to also avoid driving for the week immediately following surgery.
What are the risks of this surgery?
The potential complications of gynecomastia are relatively rare. They include inadequate removal of breast tissue, an uneven contour to the chest and reduced nipple sensation. If an excision has been performed, rather than liposuction, then a blood clot can form that may need to be drained at a second operation.
How much does this surgery cost?
Depending on the type of procedure you require, the cost of surgery can vary.
These are guide prices and are subject to change following an initial consultation with Mr Wilson, where a bespoke quote will be provided, specific to each patient.
At Spire Bristol Hospital
From £3,450 (closed surgery)
From £5,030 (open surgery)
At BMI Bath Clinic
From £3,370 (closed surgery)
From £4,950 (open surgery)
At Winfield Hospital (Gloucester)
From £4,410 (closed surgery)
From £5,520 (open surgery)
At St Josephs Newport
From £4,930 (closed surgery)
From £5,010 (open surgery)
There are finance options available which you can find information about on the Spire, BMI and Winfield hospital websites respectively.
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Please visit the Testimonials page for the very latest, or click on the links directly below this contact form.