Gynaecomastia is the development of breast tissue in men. It needs to be distinguished from simple fatty enlargement, because the two are treated differently: glandular tissue is excised, fat is removed by liposuction. Many cases involve both components, and the operation then combines the two steps in one sitting.
Find the cause before operating
Gynaecomastia can be linked to a medication, to substance use, or to a hormonal, liver or, less often, testicular condition. These causes should be looked for before surgery, because if they persist the tissue can return. Recent, one-sided or painful enlargement deserves careful assessment rather than a quick operation. Weight stability matters too, since later weight loss changes what the chest looks like.
How it is done and what to expect
The aim is a flat chest with a natural contour and an areola that does not sit in a hollow. The defects most often corrected at a second operation are exactly that: over-resection under the areola leaving a depression, and contour irregularity at the edges of the treated area. The main scar sits at the lower border of the areola. A compression garment is worn afterwards, and the final shape is only visible once swelling has fully settled, which takes months.
Useful questions
Ask whether hormonal blood tests were considered necessary and why; whether the excised tissue will be sent for histological examination; and how a haematoma would be managed, since bleeding under the skin is the commonest early problem after this type of resection. Arrange a doctor at home who will see you in the weeks after you return.