Gynecomastia Surgery

If you notice a more feminine appearance to your male chest, you may have gynecomastia. If you feel self-conscious without a shirt on due to the appearance of your chest, you may have gynecomastia. If you are unsure, you can book a free consultation with Dr. Dreckmann, our board-certified plastic surgeon, who can examine for the presence of gynecomastia and if present, can also suggest possible treatment options.

Gynecomastia typically resolves itself within 2 years for adolescent males, with the majority of men having gynecomastia naturally resolve by age 20. Beyond that, gynecomastia surgery may be recommended to reduce the size of the breasts.

Certain prescription drugs can contribute to gynecomastia and if an alternative medication can be taken (under the direction of a physician), it may help improve a patient’s gynecomastia. Alcohol, marijuana and anabolic steroids have also been linked to gynecomastia, and decreasing their use may also be effective in reducing gynecomastia. Rarely, gynecomastia is secondary to an underlying disease, such as a testicular tumor. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your body.

The majority of cases of gynecomastia in adolescent males resolve by age 20. Beyond that, gynecomastia is unlikely to resolve without surgical assistance. If your gynecomastia is related to a particular prescription drug, changing that medication (under the direction of a physician) may improve your gynecomastia. Similarly, reducing alcohol, marijuana and anabolic steroid use may also help gynecomastia to resolve.

Medications and drugs that have known possible links to gynecomastia include:

• marijuana

• anabolic steroids and other hormones

• alcohol

• opioids

• amphetamines

• select antipsychotics and antidepressants

• select cardiac and blood pressure medications

• omeprazole and gastric ulcer medications

• chemotherapy

• select HIV medications

It is paramount that you do not alter your prescription medications if you believe they are contributing to your gynecomastia, unless directed to do so by a physician.

There are certain situations in which OHIP does cover gynecomastia surgery.

Adolescent gynecomastia which has been sustained for 2 years as the result of hormonal imbalance may be covered by OHIP.

Gynecomastia secondary to endocrine disease, genetic disorders or chemotherapy may be covered by OHIP.

Pseudogynecomastia as a result of massive weight gain / loss is not covered by OHIP. Liposuction is not covered by OHIP.

Gynecomastia is most often related to hormonal imbalances. This can happen naturally as males age. Medical conditions such as thyroid, kidney, and liver disease can also potentially cause gynecomastia as well as testicular tumors which impact hormone circulation. Certain medications or drugs can cause gynecomastia as well.

Gynecomastia refers to an excess of glandular male breast tissue, while pseudogynecomastia (or lipomastia) refers to an excess of fat in the chest region. Gynecomastia may be the result of a hormonal imbalance, and can often be detected by feeling for a firmness under the nipple or areola. Glandular tissue is firmer than fat. Pseudogynecomastia is typically a consequence of obesity or excessive weight gain. The breast tissue will be softer, and may have a more saggy appearance than true gynecomastia. If you are unsure if you have gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia, you can book a free consultation with Dr. Dreckmann, our board-certified plastic surgeon, who can examine you and also suggest possible treatment options.

It depends on the underlying cause. The majority of cases of gynecomastia in adolescent males resolve by age 20. Beyond that, gynecomastia is unlikely to go away without surgical assistance. If your gynecomastia is related to a particular prescription drug, changing that medication (under the direction of a physician) may improve your gynecomastia. Similarly, reducing alcohol, marijuana and anabolic steroid use may also improve your gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia is generally not a serious physical health issue. Some men may experience some pain in their breasts. Other men may feel embarrassed about their appearance. Gynecomastia can be indicative of a hormonal imbalance and it is worth consulting your physician about options. In rare cases, it can be due to a serious underlying medical condition.

Gynecomastia is performed under general anesthesia so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Patients generally experience moderate discomfort for 2 to 3 days after surgery, depending on the extent of the surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help manage the pain. Swelling and pain will have largely subsided by the end of the first week and most patients are able to return to work and light physical activity.

A vast majority of patients are very pleased with their gynecomastia surgery results and think the procedure is worth it. In fact, on RealSelf, the gynecomastia procedure has a 96% “Worth It” rating at the time of writing this article.

All surgeries have risks, including gynecomastia correction, but the procedure is generally regarded as very safe. Any potential risks and complications will be outlined during the consultation. The procedure will be performed by our experienced, board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Dreckmann, in a fully accredited surgical facility to promote patient safety.

If the initial gynecomastia cause was related to a particular medication or alcohol, marijuana or anabolic steroid use, and subsequently resolved by eliminating the use or consumption of that particular item, then it is possible for gynecomastia to return if the consumption of the offending agent is resumed.

If the initial gynecomastia cause was related to a hormone imbalance due to something like an adrenal or pituitary tumor, and that underlying issue remains untreated after gynecomastia surgery, then it is possible for gynecomastia to return.

If excessive weight is gained following gynecomastia surgery, the gynecomastia can return as pseudogynecomastia.

Yes! It can occur in newborns, around puberty and in the elderly due to hormonal changes. In younger patients, it often improves over time.