Gynecomastia Surgery in Dublin
Male Breast Reduction for a Flatter, More Defined Chest
Gynecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue, which can create fullness around the chest and affect how you feel about your appearance. It can affect one or both sides of the chest and may develop at different stages of life.
For some men, the enlargement is primarily caused by glandular breast tissue. For others, excess fat contributes to the appearance of the chest. Understanding the difference is important because the appropriate treatment depends on the underlying tissue.
At Donnybrook Clinic in Dublin, gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is individually planned to reduce excess chest tissue and create a flatter, more natural-looking chest contour.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is an increase in male breast glandular tissue. It can be associated with changes in the balance between testosterone and oestrogen, certain medications, underlying health conditions and other factors.
Gynecomastia is different from simply carrying excess fat around the chest. Pseudogynecomastia refers to increased fatty tissue without enlargement of the breast gland.
This distinction matters because diet and exercise may reduce overall body fat but will not necessarily remove persistent glandular breast tissue.
Gynecomastia can also cause tenderness or sensitivity, although some men experience no physical symptoms.
What Causes Gynecomastia in Men?
Gynecomastia can develop for several reasons, including natural hormonal changes, certain medicines, anabolic steroid use, obesity and some underlying health conditions.
During puberty, for example, temporary hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to enlarge and it may resolve without treatment. Persistent or newly developing gynecomastia in adults may warrant medical assessment to understand the possible cause.
If you have a new, firm lump, nipple discharge, significant pain or changes affecting only one breast, it is important to seek appropriate medical assessment rather than assuming the change is simply gynecomastia.
Can Gynecomastia Be Treated Without Surgery?
Treatment depends on the cause, how long the condition has been present and how much it affects you.
Some cases of gynecomastia, particularly those associated with puberty, resolve naturally. Where an underlying medical condition or medication is contributing, addressing that cause may be appropriate.
However, when enlarged breast tissue persists and continues to cause concern about the appearance or symptoms, surgery may be considered. Gynecomastia surgery is designed to physically remove the excess tissue responsible for the chest enlargement.
What Does Gynecomastia Surgery Involve?
Male breast reduction isn't one identical procedure for every patient. The surgical approach depends on whether the chest enlargement is caused primarily by fat, glandular tissue, excess skin, or a combination.
Liposuction
Where excess fatty tissue is a significant part of the enlargement, liposuction can be used to remove unwanted fat and improve the overall contour.
Glandular Tissue Excision
If firm glandular breast tissue is present, it may need to be surgically removed through a discreet incision.
Combination Treatment
Some patients require both liposuction and tissue excision. This allows the surgeon to address both fatty tissue and the underlying glandular component of gynecomastia.
The appropriate approach is determined during your consultation rather than simply selecting one technique for everyone.
What Happens During Your Consultation?
Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss what is concerning you about your chest and establish what is causing the enlargement.
Dr Sami Hameid will assess your chest and discuss your medical history, goals and expectations before recommending an appropriate treatment approach.
Where necessary, further medical assessment may be recommended to investigate an underlying cause. A proper diagnosis is particularly important when the enlargement is new, unusual or accompanied by other symptoms.
If surgery is appropriate, you'll be able to discuss the proposed technique, incision placement, expected recovery and potential results before making a decision.
Gynecomastia Before and After
Frequently Asked Questions
Gynecomastia Patient Testimonials
Andrew Duffy
27.09.2023
Cannot recommend enough. I had gynecomastia liposuction and incision and the results where exactly what I wanted. Dr Sami was very patient and listened to my concerns. All staff where very friendly and accommodating.