Male Breast Reduction
Before surgery you will need to see your GP for a complete assessment as male breast tissue can be the result of several factors including prescribed medication, cannabis, and anabolic steroids. However, usually these investigations are normal and you can proceed with surgery. Removing excess breast tissue can be done via liposuction, an incision where the tissue is removed directly, or a combination of the two techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does surgery involve?
Excess breast tissue will be removed either through a small incision around the areolar or with liposuction (or a combination of the two). This will be discussed with you in the clinic.
2How long will I be in hospital?
Most patients can go home the next day when they feel comfortable.
3How can I prepare for surgery?
You should purchase a compression garment prior to surgery and this will be put on before you go home. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication. Make sure you have supplies of simple painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen at home.
4What are the risks of surgery?
Patients often see bruising after surgery. The other risks will be discussed in the clinic. In order to reduce your risk you can make sure you eat healthily, are a healthy weight, and stop smoking.
5What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will be healed within 1-2 weeks. You should continue to wear the compression garment for 6 weeks to reduce the swelling.
- Surgical time – 90-180 minutes
- Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
- Time off work – 1-2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
- Hospital stay – 0-1 nights
- Shower – immediately
- Reasonably mobile – day 1-2
- Sleeping position – back
- Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
- Garments – compression garment
- Sexual activity – after 1-2 weeks depending on your comfort
- Full recovery – 6 weeks
- Driving – 1-2 weeks