Gynaecomastia surgery in London

Gynaecomastia is common and has several possible causes:

• In younger men: it is often hereditary or linked to lifestyle factors, such as weight gain, alcohol, cannabis or anabolic steroids

• In older men: it is often related to hormonal changes with age, where the balance shifts towards oestrogen

• Medication: some medicines can cause it, including certain treatments for epilepsy, heart conditions and prostate conditions

• Medical conditions: occasionally it is linked to liver, kidney, thyroid or other hormone-related conditions

Because the cause matters, it is assessed before any surgery is planned.

What causes gynaecomastia

Assessment before surgery

Before your consultation, or at your appointment, blood tests may be arranged to check hormone levels and look for an underlying cause. If a cause is found, treating it may be the first step, and surgery may not be needed.

Surgery gives the most reliable and lasting results when:

• your weight is stable and close to a healthy range

• any medicines, supplements or substances that may cause gynaecomastia have been reviewed or stopped

• you are in good general health

If this is not yet the case, Mr Oezdogan will discuss how to prepare and when surgery would be most suitable.

What gynaecomastia surgery involves

The technique depends on what makes up the enlargement:

• Liposuction: when the enlargement is mainly fatty tissue

• Gland excision: removing firm glandular tissue through a small incision at the edge of the areola. This is also used when the gland is tender or painful.

• Liposuction and gland excision combined: when there is both fatty and glandular tissue, which is the most common situation

• Skin removal and nipple repositioning: for larger chests with loose or drooping skin

The operation usually takes 1–3 hours under general anaesthetic, depending on the technique, and is usually carried out as a day case.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, a collection of blood (haematoma) or fluid (seroma), and infection

• scarring

• changes in nipple or chest sensation

• contour irregularities or a dip under the nipple

• asymmetry, and the possible need for further surgery

• gynaecomastia returning if the underlying cause continues

A compression garment is worn for six weeks after surgery. Most people return to desk work after about two weeks and to strenuous exercise after about six weeks.

Surgery aims to give a flatter, more natural chest contour, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and aesthetic breast surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Can gynaecomastia go away on its own?

Sometimes, particularly when it is caused by medication or weight changes that can be addressed. Long-standing gynaecomastia usually needs surgery.

Will it come back?

Removed tissue does not grow back. However, weight gain, steroids, some medicines or hormonal changes can cause new enlargement.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

Do I need blood tests?

Often, yes. They help to identify any underlying cause and may be arranged before or at your consultation.

Is gynaecomastia surgery available on the NHS?

NHS funding is very limited. Surgery is usually self-funded.

I am under 18. Can I have surgery?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. Younger patients should speak to their GP.

To discuss gynaecomastia surgery, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options