Gynecomastia, also known colloquially as male breast, is the feminization of the breast shape in men.
Genuine" gynecomastia is a unilateral or bilateral enlargement of the mammary gland tissue, whereas "pseudogynecomastia" is merely an increase in fat deposits in the breast area. The mammary gland proliferations are benign in the vast majority of cases and therefore do not pose a health risk. The causes of gynecomastia are varied, including hereditary factors, hormonal disorders, but also certain drugs or the use of anabolic steroids or cannabis.
A man's chest often has negative effects on self-confidence and well-being in one's own body and not infrequently leads to feelings of shame and social withdrawal. Since the contour changes in the breast area can often not be controlled by sports or dietary adjustments, only surgical correction can help in most cases. Gynecomastia surgery not only improves the appearance, but also strengthens self-confidence and supports the well-being in one's own body.
The consultation
Before a gynecomastia correction, there are usually two detailed consultations with Dr. Lüdi. It is very important to us that you are well informed about the procedure, that all open questions are answered and that your wishes are taken into account. Dr. Lüdi will discuss the surgical technique, the exact incision, possible risks and complications as well as the aftercare with you.
In order to rule out hormonal disorders or other medical causes for male breasts, an endocrinological examination (clarification of hormonal disorders) is carried out by a specialist as well as an ultrasound examination of the breast before an upcoming operation.
On the day of surgery
On the day of the operation, Dr. Lüdi prepares a photo documentation before the operation and makes the markings on the breast. You will then be prepared for the upcoming operation and accompanied to the operating room.
The gynecomastia surgery
Gynecomastia correction can be performed as an outpatient day surgery in our clinic in Basel under local or general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. Excess glandular tissue is removed through an incision at the lower edge of the nipple and the breast contour is defined by liposuction. Only very small, barely visible scars remain. In rare severe cases with greater excess skin, additional skin tightening may be necessary.
Immediately after surgery
After the operation, you can recover from the procedure in our beautiful patient rooms with a view of the Rhine and will be looked after by our team. After another visit by Dr. Lüdi, you can be picked up by an accompanying person and return home the same day.
The aftercare
- For 6 weeks you should wear the fitted compression gilet during the day and also at night.
- We recommend a rest period of 6 weeks to support an optimal healing process. This means that you should refrain from sports and carrying and lifting loads during this time.
- Pain intensity after surgery is generally moderate and well controlled with common analgesics.
- Scar care can be started from 3 weeks postoperatively.
Risks and complications
In principle, every operation involves certain risks, but in general male breast correction is a low-risk procedure and complications rarely occur. In addition to the general surgical risks (e.g. bruising, wound healing disorders, infection), in individual cases there may be post-operative bleeding or, in the case of an additional breast lift, occasionally a temporary numbness of the nipple.
During the consultation, Dr. Lüdi will discuss the possible risks and complications with you in detail and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Costs
The costs for a gynecomastia correction depend on your wishes, the type and extent of the operation, the type of anesthesia, as well as the materials required. During a consultation, Dr. Lüdi will put together a treatment tailored to you personally and provide you with an individual cost estimate.
As a rule, health insurance does not cover the costs of gynecomastia correction, as it is an aesthetic procedure. Only in rare exceptional cases with medical indication the costs are covered by the health insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Simona Lüdi, MD, will be happy to welcome you for a personal consultation for gynecomastia surgery at our clinic in Basel. We look forward to seeing you.