Gynaecomastia

Gynaecomastia

Gynaecomastia is a benign condition that results in the enlargement of male breast gland tissue and is quite common, more than half of all healthy males will develop gynaecomastia during puberty but the enlarged breast tissue generally reduces in size with time.

About one-third of older men will develop gynaecomastia and while it can develop in males of any age or weight, the condition often arises around puberty as hormonal changes affect breast development. Large breasts seen on obese men are generally due to an accumulation of excess fat and not the breast gland tissue, so it is sometimes called pseudogynaecomastia as it is not true gynaecomastia.

Gynaecomastia can appear as a firm or rubbery mass that starts from underneath the nipple and spreads out over the breast area. It generally affects both breasts simultaneously but often in varying amounts resulting in asymmetry, or the condition may only affect one breast. Some men experience pain or tenderness with the growing tissue and gynaecomastia can also result in significant social and psychological stress, leading to embarrassment and anxiety.

Gynaecomastia, excessive male breast development, is a condition which can adversely affect a male’s confidence and self-esteem.

Causes:

• Hereditary
• Obesity
• Drugs …anabolic steroids, testosterone etc…
• Tumours

Surgical Treatment:

It is mandatory that the cause of the gynecomastia is determined.
Your surgeon will take an elaborate history, examine you and carry out investigations if necessary.

Surgical treatments vary according to : 

• Fatty adipose component
• Breast tissue component
• Skin excess and elasticity

The surgical choice will be explained to you at the time of your consultation.

Procedure:

Liposuction alone: Liposuction is performed if the abnormality is solely due to fat adipose tissue with small amounts of breast tissue. Surgical excision/removal of the breast tissue combined with liposuction: This option is applicable to excess fat AND breast tissue. The incision will be placed at the junction of the lower half of the areola and chest skin. Drains will be used and a pressure garment will be applied.

Duration of Procedure:

1-3 hours depending on the size and content of the breasts.

Anaesthesia:

General anaesthesia is the preferred choice. Local anaesthesia with or without intravenous sedation may be requested if suitable.

Recovery:

Small reduction:  Discharged on the same day. Larger reduction: Discharged the next day. Back to work within 3-7 days. Gentle exercise within 10 days of Strenuous exercise within 6 weeks. Exercise depends on the extent of the surgery.

Results:

Permanent reduction of breast size. Small feint scars at the base of the areola. Improved self-esteem and confidence. You will wear tight T-shirts and go to the beach feeling good.

How Much Does Gynaecomastia Surgery Cost in Cape Town?

The cost of gynaecomastia surgery varies according to the amount of excess fat and breast gland tissue, the degree of skin excess and whether liposuction, surgical tissue removal or a combination of both is required.

Estimated procedure cost

R69,900.00 – R89,500.00

Indicative range to be confirmed by the practice

Factors that may influence the cost:

• The amount of excess fat and breast gland tissue
• Whether liposuction, surgical tissue removal or both are required
• The degree of skin excess and elasticity
• The complexity of the surgery
• Anaesthesia fees
• Hospital or theatre fees

A personalised quotation will be provided following your consultation with one of our specialist plastic surgeons.

Prices are estimates only and may change following clinical assessment. Please confirm with the practice which fees are included and excluded.