Gynaecomastia

Symptoms | Causes | Diagnosis | Surgery | Aftercare | Consultation

Many men have what is normally bilateral and only rarely unilateral enlargement of the male breast. A distinction is made between true gynecomastia and what is known as lipomastia. In true gynecomastia, there is growth of the glandular tissue in the breast. In lipomastia , there is excess fatty tissue, but no increase in glandular tissue. Mixed forms are also possible and are common.

Symptoms

In true gynecomastia, in addition to the increased volume, there is a feeling of tightness and pain in the breast.

Causes

Gynaecomastia normally develops during puberty and is caused by enlargement of the breast tissue that is also present in men. A hormonal imbalance can also be the cause of gynaecomastia. In most cases, however, the exact cause cannot be clearly determined.

Lipomastia can also result from being overweight. The breast grows as the underlying fatty tissue around the nipple and breast muscle increases. In most cases, lipomastia can be positively influenced through exercise, strength training and dietary changes.

Diagnosis

As a man, if you notice that your breasts are growing, you should make an appointment to see a specialist (internal medicine or plastic surgery). You will be asked about medication and whether you have liver disease. The consultation may include examination of the breasts and testes and blood samples may be taken to determine hormone status and liver function. An ultrasound and mammogram may also be required for the diagnosis.

Surgery

In gynecomastia, the breasts can be surgically reduced by means of a mastectomy and the appearance of the chest can be optimised. Depending on the cause, surgical correction involves removal of the breast tissue or reduction of the fat layer. In severe cases, a skin lift can be performed. The result is usually permanent. The mammary glands only rarely become enlarged again.

Anaesthesia

The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis under regional or general anaesthetic.

Aftercare

Wearing a compression garment is recommended for about four weeks. You may also be off work for up to four weeks, depending on your job. Light physical activities can be resumed relatively quickly, within a few days. Sport can normally be restarted after four weeks.

Cost coverage by health insurance

Insurance companies cover the costs only in cases of extreme breast formation. Where liposuction only is involved, partial cost cover will generally be rejected. However, we do recommend that you contact your insurance company in every instance.

Contact us for a consultation

Our doctors have many years of experience and are highly skilled in treatments for gynaecomastia.

We guarantee rapid, expert assessment and consultation as well as treatment in line with the latest medical findings. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you would like a second opinion.

Facts and figures

Operation

Operation

1 ½ hours, under general or regional anaesthetic

Operation

In/outpatient

Outpatient

Post-operative treatment

Post-operative treatment

Compression garment for about 4 weeks

Back to school or work

Back to school or work

After 1 to 2 weeks

Sport

Sport

Resume after 4 weeks

Ready to socialise

Ready to socialise

After 2 to 3 days

Costs

Costs

CHF 8,500 to CHF 10,000