Also known as Male Breast Reduction, gynecomastia can produce a flatter, firmer, and better-contoured chest. Though rarely talked about, gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It may affect only one breast or both.

This surgical procedure for men removes fat, glandular tissue, and in extreme cases skin, from the breasts.

Healthy men who have overly develped breasts.

All surgery carries risk, and you should be fully aware of the medical risks associated with this procedure before you consent to surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation, and you are encouraged to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

More details about your consultation and tips on coming to Bumrungrad in the Consultation section of our Getting Your Procedure page.

You will be required to sign a consent form before surgery stating that you have been informed of the risks involved; that you understand those risks; and that you accept those risks. This is standard hospital protocol and surgery will not be performed if you do not sign.

You can find hospital forms on our the Forms section of our Getting Your Procedure page.

It is your obligation to inform your surgeon of key medical information that may influence the outcome of your surgery or may increase the level of risk. These include medications you are taking, history of disease, medical complications, etc.

Risks and risk rates vary from patient to patient depending on a range of factors. No two people are alike. The risks listed below are possible risks associated with this type of surgery and are mentioned regardless of how remote the possibility:

Shifting or imprecise positioning of implant, or infection around it, requiring a second operation or removal.

Excess tightening and hardening of scar tissue around an artificial implant ("capsular contracture"), causing unnatural shape.

The FAQ question "What are the risks of plastic and cosmetic surgery?" has additional details on risks and how to minimize them.

Surgery may be discouraged for obese men, or for overweight men who have not first attempted to correct the problem with exercise or weight loss. Also, individuals who drink alcohol beverages in excess or smoke marijuana are usually not considered good candidates for surgery. These drugs, along with anabolic steroids, may cause gynecomastia. Therefore, patients are first directed to stop the use of these drugs to see if the breast fullness will diminish before surgery is considered an option.

Time required: 1 to 2 hours.
Anesthesia: Local with sedation or general.

Temporary swelling, numbness, headaches, bruising. Traditional method: Possible itching and hair loss.

Back to work: 5-7 days
More strenuous activity: 2-3 weeks
Full recovery from bruising: 3-6 months

Usually 5 to 10 years.
 

Please note that this information should be used only as a guide to your treatment. All specifics will be discussed with your Physician at your consultation.