Gynaecomastia — enlargement of the breast tissue in men and boys — is common. It often appears in adolescence and can persist into adulthood; it is also seen with weight gain, certain medicines, hormonal conditions and some supplements. Whatever the cause, a prominent chest makes many men self-conscious about swimming, fitted clothing and the gym.
Where there is an underlying cause, a hormonal work-up is sometimes arranged first. Surgery then removes the excess gland and fat so the chest sits flat and contoured.
What Is Removed, and How
Gynaecomastia is a mix of firm glandular tissue beneath the nipple and softer fat around it; the proportion differs from person to person. Fat is removed with Liposuction through tiny incisions at the side of the chest. Gland is removed through a small incision at the edge of the areola, which heals to be almost invisible. Most men need a combination of the two. Where the skin is very loose after major weight loss, skin removal with a longer scar may be needed, and this is discussed beforehand.
The procedure is done as day-care surgery under general anaesthesia.
Recovery
A compression vest is worn for about four to six weeks to help the skin settle flat. Bruising and swelling subside over two to three weeks. Desk work is possible within a few days; upper-body exercise and chest workouts resume at about four weeks. The final contour is visible once swelling has gone, at around three months.
Timing in Adolescence
Gynaecomastia that appears in puberty resolves on its own in the majority of boys within a year or two, so surgery is usually deferred until it has clearly persisted and growth is complete, unless it is causing significant distress. A hormonal assessment is arranged when the history or examination suggests a cause.
Risks and Limitations
Fluid collection, bruising, a slight dip under the nipple if too much gland is removed, asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation and recurrence with weight gain or continued use of a causative drug are the main concerns. Surgery treats the chest; it does not correct an underlying hormonal condition, which is managed separately.
Part of Breast Plastic Surgery in Bangalore — see the overview for the full range of procedures, including those without a dedicated page.
Need More Information?
Call +91 95355 81616, email connect@drvybhavderaje.com or book an appointment online .
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gynaecomastia Surgery leave scars?
Usually there is no visible scar on the chest. Liposuction uses tiny incisions at the side of the chest and any gland is removed through a small incision at the edge of the areola that heals almost invisibly.
Is Gynaecomastia Surgery a day-care procedure?
Yes. It is done under general anaesthesia and you go home the same day with a compression vest.
Do I need blood tests before Gynaecomastia Surgery?
Sometimes. A hormonal work-up is arranged when the history or examination suggests an underlying cause, so that it can be treated alongside surgery.
When can I go back to the gym after Gynaecomastia Surgery?
Light activity within days, desk work within a few days, and chest and upper-body workouts at about four weeks.
Can Gynaecomastia come back after surgery?
The removed gland does not regrow, but significant weight gain, anabolic steroid use or continued use of a causative medicine can cause the chest to enlarge again.
Is a consultation a commitment to surgery?
No. Use the consultation to understand your options, alternatives, limitations and recovery, then take the time you need to decide.
This page is general information written by Dr Vybhav Deraje for patients and families. It does not replace an individual consultation; treatment plans depend on clinical assessment.