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Gynaecomastia

Male breast

Many men suffer from an enlargement of the male breast, usually on both sides, rarely on one side. A distinction is made between true gynaecomastia and so-called lipomastia. In true gynaecomastia, the male mammary gland tissue increases in size. In lipomastia, only fatty tissue is stored, but no additional mammary gland tissue is produced. Mixed forms are common.

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Symptoms and causes of gynaecomastia

(male breast)

In the case of true gynaecomastia, in addition to the enlarged volume, the patient complains of a feeling of tension and pain in the breast.

Gynaecomastia typically develops during puberty and is due to an enlargement of the mammary gland, which is also present in men. Hormonal disorders can also be the cause of gynaecomastia. In most cases, however, the exact cause cannot be clearly determined.

Lipomastia can also be the result of obesity. The breast grows because the subcutaneous fatty tissue around the nipple and on the pectoral muscle increases. In most cases, lipomastia can be positively influenced by exercise, strength training and a change in diet.

If you notice a growth in your own breasts, you should always consult an internal medicine specialist. You will be asked about any medication you are taking and any known liver diseases. A detailed examination of the breasts and testicles may also be part of the examination, as well as a blood test to determine the hormone status and liver values. An ultrasound examination and a mammogram may also be necessary for the diagnosis.

The operation

In the case of gynaecomastia, the breasts can be reduced in size and the appearance optimised through targeted surgery. Depending on the cause, surgical correction involves the surgical removal of the mammary gland or the reduction of the fat layer. In more pronounced cases, a skin tightening procedure must be performed. The result is usually permanent. The mammary glands very rarely enlarge again.

Aftercare

It is recommended to wear a compression garment for around four weeks. Depending on your occupation, you may be unable to work for up to four weeks. Light physical activities can be resumed relatively quickly, within days. Sport should normally only be resumed after four weeks.

Facts and figures about gynaecomastia

Operation

Approx. 1 ½ hours, under general or partial anaesthesia

Aftercare

Outpatient procedure, compression girdle for around 4 weeks

Sport

After 4 weeks

Sociability

Nach 2 bis 3 Tagen, ca. ein bis zwei Wochen arbeitsunfähig

Costs

CHF 8'500.- to 10'000.-

We are happy to advise you personally

We would be happy to inform you about the details of a treatment in a personal consultation.

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Prof Dr med Mario Scaglioni, Owner and Head of Reconstructive Surgery

Dr Cédric A. George, founder and senior consultant

Dr Rosmarie Adelsberger EMBA, Head Aesthetic Surgery

Dr. med. Caroline S. Fritz

Dr med Adina Villiger

Frequently asked questions about gynaecomastia

Are the costs covered by health insurance?

Health insurance will only cover the costs in the case of extreme breast formation. In the case of pure liposuction, cost sharing is refused. However, we recommend contacting your health insurance provider in any case.

Wie lange ist man Arbeitsunfähig?

The duration of the incapacity to work depends on the type of occupational activity and can last up to four weeks. Light physical work is usually possible again after just a few days.

When are you allowed to do sports again?

Sports activities should only be resumed after about four weeks.

Kann die Gynäkomastie nach der Operation wiederkommen?

In most cases, the breasts do not grow back after gynaecomastia surgery.

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