The Ultimate Guide to Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Last fact-checked: 25 September 2020

Male breasts, informally known as man-boobs or moobs for short, is not something men like to talk about – stoically suffering in silence and keeping covered up. Contrary to what some people may think, it is a problem that's not necessarily related to obesity; it can often be attributed to genetics or hormonal issues. 

An effective but rather costly solution is male breast reduction surgery. For those happy to travel abroad, savings of up to 70% can be made when booking at one of our global clinics and hospitals. Keep reading to learn more with Medical Departures. 

What Causes Enlarged Male Breasts?

Gynaecomastia may be caused or exacerbated by:

• Obesity
• Hormonal imbalance which causes the breast tissue to grow.
• Birth abnormalities
• Dramatic weight loss causing the skin to sag
• Excessive use of alcohol and drugs, particularly anabolic steroids

Am I Suitable for Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

If you are embarrassed by the size of your breasts, are over 18, generally healthy and within your ideal body weight range then, yes, you may be suitable.

If you are overweight, exercise and diet may help. If you are taking anabolic steroids and drinking too much alcohol then you may find that stopping helps.

It should be noted that this should not be viewed as a type of weight-loss surgery. 

How Long Does the Surgery Take - And What Is Involved?

The surgery for male breast reduction typically takes between one and two hours, and you will be given a general anaesthetic.

The surgery involves removing the excess tissue from the breast. Small incisions are made around the areola (the colored area of the nipple) so that the scars will hardly be noticeable once they have healed.

If there isn’t a lot of breast tissue to remove, the surgeon may only use liposuction that involves a minimally invasive technique. For more complex work, incisions may have to be made down the chest wall. If, when the breast tissue is removed, there is a lot of excess skin this may also be removed by the surgeon, and, if needed, the nipples also repositioned.

What Is the Recovery Time for Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

Your chest will be bandaged and you may have some drains inserted into your wounds to take liquid away from your body. These may be in place for several days. You can expect to feel very tender, sore and stiff, which will be eased with pain medication.

Following surgery, you should also note that:

• You will need to take it easy for at least a few days, but most people return to a fairly normal routine after that.
• If you don’t have a physical job, you can return to work in a week.
• You should avoid bending down or stretching for a few weeks and strenuous exercise for up to six weeks.
• The swelling will subside gradually, but it may take 6 months before it has dissipated completely.
• You will be advised not to expose your chest to the sun during this time too as it may affect the scar pigmentation.

What Is the Cost of Male Breast Reduction Surgery Abroad?

The price depends on where you go, but in general, most surgery abroad in places like Mexico or Thailand can be around half the cost you’d pay at home. For example, in the United States, male breast reduction surgery is around $8,000, compared to:

• $2,900 in the Philippines
• $2,200 in Mexico
• $3,800 in Thailand

Please check out clinic listings to find some of the latest prices, as well as photos, surgeon profiles, past patient reviews and more. 

How Do I Get Started with Medical Departures?

Follow the links above to see verified clinics in popular destinations for medical travel or find our full list of global facilities for male breast reduction surgery here.

Booking through our site is quick, secure and easy, and thanks to our guarantee, you'll always pay the best prices online. For more information or assistance with the booking process, feel free to contact our Customer Care Team at any time of day or night. 

Sources:

Gynecomastia Surgery - Gallery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Website accessed: 25 September 2020. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/photo-gallery/procedure/male-breast-reduction

Gynecomastia Surgery Guide. American Board of Cosmetic Surgeons. Website accessed: 25 September 2020. https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/body/gynecomastia-surgery-guide/

Kennedy, Madeline. What is liposuction? 13 February 2020. https://www.insider.com/what-is-liposuction