Everything you need to know about male chest reduction surgery

Enlarged male chest tissue, also known as gynaecomastia, is the most common male chest disorder.

Affecting approximately 50-65% males worldwide at some point in their lives, enlarged male chest tissue – or gynaecomastia – usually presents as a lump-like growth underneath the nipple. Undergoing male chest reduction surgery can help address the condition, and it is a common and effective surgical procedure.

What causes male gynaecomastia?

In most cases, male chest tissue enlargement is a result of a hormonal imbalance. This can be due to certain health conditions; as a result of using certain drugs such as anabolic steroids; and more. In some instances, gynaecomastia can also be caused by weight gain.

Is a Male Chest Reduction right for me?

Determining whether cosmetic surgery is right for you is a highly individualised decision, and a consultation with Dr Mistry can help weigh your options.

For instance, gynaecomastia surgery is best performed when the breasts are fully developed, after adolescent-hood. Otherwise, revision cosmetic surgery may be required in the future.

When no contraindications are present, undergoing a male chest reduction can help an affected patient feel more comfortable within their body. 

Advantages of Male Chest Reduction Surgery

The advantages of excising excess breast tissue highly depend on one’s personal goals. Benefits may include improved emotional wellbeing, improving posture, and making some physical activity more comfortable.

What is involved in a Male Chest Reduction?

Gynaecomastia surgery may involve liposuction, surgical excision, or a combination of both to address excess breast tissue. This tissue can sometimes cause changes in breast shape or skin laxity. The procedure is generally performed under a general anaesthetic and may be undertaken on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral). In many cases, only a small incision is required.

What to expect after a Male Chest Reduction?

Each surgery and patient is unique, but after surgery recovery will generally include:

• Specific instructions from your surgeon as to your self-care
• A recovery from the liposuction in several days
• Recovery from excision in several weeks
• Avoidance of lifting and physical exercise for a specified period of time

Please contact Dr Mistry following your procedure if you have any questions or concerns.

What are the costs or funding options for a Male Chest Reduction?

If you have been diagnosed with gynaecomastia and your recommended course of treatment includes male chest reduction surgery, you should be able to receive some Medicare benefit.

There is a Medicare Benefits Schedule item code for the medically necessary breast reduction procedure (31525), specifying:

Breast, mastectomy for gynaecomastia, with or without liposuction (suction assisted lipolysis), not being a service associated with a service to which item 45585 applies (H).

In addition, you should discuss this with your private health fund – as additional rebates may apply depending on your cover.

Contact Us

If you would like to inquire about enlarged male chest tissue removal in Newcastle, please contact Dr Mistry and the team today for more information.