Gynecomastia
A personalised surgical solution for male breast enlargement.
Op. Dr. Alperen Tekin · FEBOPRAS · TPRECD Member
- Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery Specialist
- TPRECD Member
- FEBOPRAS — European Board
- Personalised Planning
- Natural Results
Gynecomastia The Solution for Breast Growth in Men
Gynecomastia is an abnormal growth of breast tissue in men. It can occur for various reasons such as hormonal imbalances, genetic factors or certain medications. This condition, which causes aesthetic and psychological discomfort, can be effectively treated with surgical interventions.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition characterized by enlargement of the mammary glands in men. Although it is most commonly seen during adolescence, it can occur in any age group. Gynecomastia can develop unilaterally or bilaterally and often causes aesthetic concerns.
What Causes Gynecomastia?
The most common causes of gynecomastia are:
- Hormonal Imbalance: Low levels of testosterone and high levels of estrogen.
- Puberty Period: During this period, temporary gynecomastia may occur due to hormonal changes.
- Medication Use: Anabolic steroids, antidepressants and some heart medications can cause gynecomastia.
- Obesity: Excess weight can lead to increased adipose tissue and elevated estrogen levels.
- Genetic Factors: It is more common in individuals with a family history of gynecomastia.
- Other Medical Conditions: Health problems such as liver diseases, thyroid disorders or kidney failure.
Symptoms of Gynecomastia
- Swelling or hardness in the chest area.
- Tenderness or pain in the breast tissue.
- Asymmetry, i.e. one breast is larger than the other.
- Psychological disturbance and loss of self-confidence.
Degrees of Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is divided into different degrees according to its severity:
- Grade 1: Minimal growth and indistinct breast tissue.
- Grade 2A: Moderate growth and slight increase in adipose tissue.
- Grade 2B: Significant breast enlargement and excess skin.
- Grade 3: Advanced growth, sagging and excess skin tissue.
Gynecomastia Treatment Methods
- Surgical Treatment:Liposuction Removal of fat tissue in the breast area.
- Removal of the mammary glands (excision): Surgical removal of the mammary glands in more advanced cases.
- Combined Method: The method in which liposuction and excision are used together.
- Medical Treatment:Hormonal treatments or medications can be effective in some cases, but surgery is usually preferred.
- Lifestyle Changes:A balanced diet and regular exercise can alleviate gynecomastia.
How is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?
Gynecomastia surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and the procedure time is between 1-2 hours. The procedure stages are as follows:
- Assessment and Planning: The surgeon assesses the size of the breast and skin elasticity.
- Anesthesia Application: The patient does not feel pain during the surgery.
- Liposuction or Excision: Fatty tissue and mammary glands are removed.
- Stitches and Bandaging: After the procedure, stitches are removed and the area is bandaged.
Postoperative Recovery Process
- There may be mild swelling and bruising; this will go away in a few weeks.
- Painkillers can be used for the first few days.
- Supportive corsets speed up the healing process and protect the results.
- Heavy physical activity should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
Advantages of Gynecomastia Treatment
- It provides an aesthetically smoother breast structure.
- Increases psychological self-confidence.
- Provides comfort in sports and daily activities.
- It offers a permanent solution.
Risks and Side Effects
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks in gynecomastia surgery:
It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions to avoid these risks.
- Temporary swelling and bruising.
- Slight asymmetry or scarring (minimal with experienced surgeons).
- In very rare cases infection.
Does Gynecomastia Go Away on Its Own?
The answer depends on age and duration, and this distinction prevents both unnecessary surgery and unnecessary waiting.
If it began during puberty: Breast tissue development in adolescence is common, and the large majority resolves on its own within about two years. Surgery is not rushed during this period; observation is preferred.
If it has been present for more than two years: The tissue may have become firm and permanent. Spontaneous regression is no longer expected after this stage.
If it appeared in adulthood: An underlying cause is investigated — medication, hormonal change, or weight gain. If the cause is removed early, partial regression may occur; in long-standing cases it will not.
Will Exercise or Weight Loss Fix It?
This is the most common question and the one that costs the most time. The answer depends on which type you have:
- True gynecomastia (glandular tissue): Exercise and weight loss will not reduce this tissue. Breast gland is not fat and does not burn away. In fact, as surrounding fat decreases the gland becomes more noticeable — this is why some men feel it looks worse after months of training.
- Pseudogynecomastia (fatty tissue): Here weight loss and exercise genuinely help. As overall body fat drops, the chest slims with it.
- Mixed type: Most men have both. Exercise reduces the fat component; the glandular component stays.
The first step of the examination is this distinction: glandular tissue is felt as a firmer, more defined mass beneath the nipple, while fat is soft and diffuse.
Medications, Supplements and Sports Products
In adult-onset gynecomastia, the first question to ask is whether any substance affecting hormonal balance is being used. This is frequently overlooked.
- Anabolic steroids and prohormones: Used for athletic purposes, these are among the most common preventable causes. The effect can persist even after use stops.
- Certain blood pressure, gastric and psychiatric medications: Your full medication list is reviewed at examination.
- Herbal supplements: Sports supplements with unclear contents and some herbal products.
- Alcohol and certain substances: Long-term use can affect hormonal balance.
Share every medication and supplement you use, including over-the-counter ones. Surgery performed while the cause remains active carries a higher chance of recurrence.
Scarring, Nipple Appearance and Recurrence
Scarring: When planned well the scar draws little attention, because the incision is usually hidden along the lower border of the areola, where the colour changes. In fat-predominant cases only a few millimetre access points are used.
What actually determines the result is not the scar but how much tissue is left beneath the nipple. If this area is over-resected the nipple sinks inward and a saucer-like depression forms — the most common reason for revision in this surgery. The goal is not to remove everything, but to leave a flat contour in harmony with the chest wall.
Recurrence: Removed glandular tissue does not grow back. However, if the underlying cause continues, if significant weight is gained, or if a new hormonal condition develops, the appearance can change again. This is why investigating and removing the cause matters as much as the surgery itself.
Gynecomastia Prices
Treatment prices vary according to the surgeon’s experience, the method used and hospital conditions. It is recommended to consult a specialist for exact price information.
Gynecomastia is a common condition in men and can be effectively treated with modern surgical techniques. You can talk to a plastic surgeon to get more information and regain your self-confidence.
Your Treatment Journey
From your first message to full recovery, we are with you.
First Contact
Message us on WhatsApp — we listen and answer your questions the same day.
Consultation & Planning
A personalised plan based on your expectations and examination findings.
Surgery
Your personalised procedure is performed comfortably under appropriate anaesthesia.
Recovery & Follow-up
We stay with you through regular check-ups at every step of recovery.
Op. Dr. Alperen Tekin
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. The goal: planning the most suitable result for your anatomy and expectations while preserving your natural look. Every option is discussed openly at your consultation, with a road map tailored to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Suitability is assessed together, based on your expectations, general health and examination findings.
After the first contact, a consultation and personalised planning follow; after surgery we monitor you with regular check-ups.
Recovery varies from person to person and with the scope of the procedure; a personal road map is clarified at your consultation.
Pricing is personalised according to the scope of the procedure; exact information is shared after consultation. Feel free to message us on WhatsApp with your first questions.
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Let us answer your questions on WhatsApp — take the first step toward your personal assessment.
or call: +90 532 309 31 01
