Gynaecomastia

Male breast reduction surgery, or Gynaecomastia, involves the surgical removal of breast tissue with the aims to create a flatter chest contour. This procedure may be performed in combination with liposuction.

Gynaecomastia
Brisbane

Gynaecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, involves the surgical removal of excess breast tissue to correct the appearance of enlarged male breasts. This procedure may be performed for various reasons, including addressing physical discomfort, personal preference, or underlying health concerns. Gynaecomastia surgery can be done alone or in conjunction with liposuction to achieve a more sculpted chest contour.

Dr. Ian Chinsee brings over 7 years of experience in breast and body contouring surgeries, having performed over 3,000 procedures related to breast and chest aesthetics. He is dedicated to providing personalised care, combining his expertise with a genuine commitment to approachability and empathy.

Everything You Need to Know About
Gynaecomastia Surgery in Brisbane

In gynaecomastia surgery, several factors need to be considered, including your reasons for removal of tissue, discussing underlying cause, and your aesthetic goals. The approach to the procedure will be tailored to your individual needs to ensure that the removal of breast tissue & glands aligns with your desired outcomes and addresses any specific concerns you may have.

  • Male breast enlargement may be a result of:

    • Puberty

    • Ageing

    • Obesity

    • Disease

    • Prescription medications

    • Drugs such as anabolic steroids

  • Gynaecomastia surgery involves several key steps, each aimed at addressing enlarged male breasts and achieving a more masculine chest contour. Here's an overview of what’s typically involved in the procedure:

    1. Consultation and Assessment: Before the surgery, a thorough consultation with Dr Chinsee is conducted to evaluate the extent of gynaecomastia. During your consultation you will discuss your goals, and Dr Chinsee will determine the most appropriate surgical approach. This may include a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly imaging studies.

    2. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

    3. Incision: Dr Chinsee will make incisions to access the excess breast tissue. The type and location of the incisions depend on the severity of the gynaecomastia and the surgical technique used:

      • Periareolar Incision: An incision is made around the edge of the areola (the darker area around the nipple), which helps minimize visible scarring.

      • Inframammary Incision: An incision is made in the natural fold beneath the breast, often used for more significant tissue removal.

      • Liposuction Incision: Small incisions are made for liposuction, a technique used to remove excess fat.

    4. Tissue Removal: Dr Chinsee will remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and/or skin as needed. In some cases, liposuction is used to remove fat deposits, while direct excision may be necessary to remove glandular tissue.

    5. Contouring: Dr Chinsee may contour the remaining tissue which may involve adjusting the position of the nipple and areola to ensure a symmetrical results.

    6. Closing Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and in some cases, adhesive strips or skin tape may be used.

    7. Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients are typically given instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and wearing a compression garment to support the healing process and minimise swelling. Pain management and follow-up appointments are also part of postoperative care.

    8. Recovery: Recovery time varies, but most patients can resume light activities within a week or two and return to full activities in a few weeks. The final results become more apparent as swelling subsides and the healing process progresses.

    Each patient’s procedure may vary based on individual needs and the surgical approach chosen.

  • Gynaecomastia is often performed alongside Liposuction or EmbraceRF (bodyTite)

Ideal Candidates for a

Gyynaecomastia Brisbane


When it comes to gynaecomastia surgery, there are several factors that need to be considered. The ideal candidate for gynaecomastia surgery is someone who is:

  • Aged 18 to 80 years

  • In good overall mental and physical health

  • Realistic in goals and expectations

  • Excessive skin or fatty breast tissue.

  • Swollen nipple areola complex

Objectives of a

Gyynaecomastia Brisbane


The objectives of gynaecomastia surgery include:

  • Reduction of Excess Tissue: The primary goal is to remove excess glandular and/or fatty tissue from the chest area to reduce breast size.

  • Relief from Physical Discomfort: Many patients experience physical discomfort, such as pain or tenderness, due to enlarged breast tissue. The surgery may alleviate these symptoms.

  • Correction of Asymmetry: If there is significant asymmetry between the two sides of the chest, the surgery aims to create a more balanced appearance.


Meet Your Doctor

Dr. Ian Chinsee


Dr. Ian Chinsee has extensive experience in gynaecomastia surgery in Brisbane, having performed over 3,000 procedures related to breast and chest aesthetics.

After completing his medical degree at the University of Queensland, Dr. Chinsee undertook four years of surgical rotations with QLD Health. He then pursued two years of advanced surgical training with the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (ACCSM), where he was honored with the prestigious Colin Moore Gold Medal Award for Excellence.

  • Dr Ian Chinsee (MED0000975196)

  • Registered Medical Practitioner, General Registration

  • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

  • Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery & Medicine [FACCSM (SURG)]

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR
GYNAECOMASTIA CONSULT


A consultation is an essential part of preparing for gynaecomastia surgery. It offers a chance to meet with Dr Chinsee and his team, gain detailed insights into the procedure, and understand potential risks and complications. This meeting is also an opportunity to discuss your goals, clarify what results can realistically be achieved, and address any misconceptions about the outcomes based on your unique situation.

Prior to undergoing cosmetic surgery, patients are required to obtain a referral from their general practitioner, complete a screening questionnaire for body dysmorphic disorder, and attend at least two pre-operative consultations.

  • When you arrive, a receptionist will guide you through the required paperwork and perform your 2D and 3D imaging before your meeting with Dr. Chinsee.

    In your initial consultation, Dr. Chinsee will review your medical history and discuss your cosmetic goals. He will provide detailed information about gynaecomastia surgery, covering both surgical and non-surgical options, recovery times, and potential risks and complications.

    Following this, Dr. Chinsee will collaborate with you to create a personalised surgical plan that aligns with your specific objectives.

  • You can schedule your second consultation at least seven days after your initial visit. During this follow-up, Dr. Chinsee will review your detailed surgical plan, discuss pre- and post-operative procedures, and answer any questions you may have about the consent forms. This is also a good opportunity to address any additional concerns you might have.

    Following the second consultation, there is a mandatory one-week cooling-off period before you can book your surgery or make any payments. Surgery can only be scheduled once you have had your second consultation and signed the consent forms.

    If you're unsure where to begin, you can request a no-obligation quote from Dr Chinsee.

Recovery & care from a

Gynaecomastia Surgery


Recovery varies from patient to patient. Rather than pain, most patients describe the sensation as discomfort or mild aches that are generally controlledwith over-the-counter pain medication. 

After the procedure, patients will require a dressing changes at one week intervals. We provide Out of Town Patients with a letter containing detailed dressing change instructions to give to their GP if you cannot attend dressing change appointments at the Brisbane clinic. 

Most patients should expect to take around one to two weeks off work. Patients with office jobs can usually return to work after one week; however, more physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period. Patients can usually return to their normal activities, including gym exercises, by six weeks.

Patients may experience swelling and there may be bruising after the procedure. Major swelling usually subsides by about three months and the final results are usually noticeable between six months and one year. A compression garment will need to be worn continuously for six weeks after surgery.

We will schedule postoperative appointments throughout the following year. These appointments can be conducted via our Virtual Waiting Room or in person at our Brisbane clinic.

SURGERY TIME

2 hours

HOSPITAL STAY

Day surgery

ANAESTHETIC

General

DRESSING CHANGE

Required at weeks 1 & 2 with an Inigo Cosmetic nurse or your GP. You may need additional dressing changes depending on recovery..

TIME OFF WORK

1 - 3 weeks

EXERCISE

None for 6 weeks. Slow return to exercise

GARMENT

Required for 6 weeks

FULL RECOVERY

3-12 months

FAQs


  • Scarring usually depends on the extent of tissue removed. Surgical incisions are placed discreetly under the breast crease. While Dr Chinsee will use surgical techniques to reduce scarring, the appearance of your scars ultimately comes down to how your body heals, genetics and post care. Your surgical scars should fade over time with appropriate postoperative care and can be further minimised with post-procedure treatment.

  • Gynaecomastia surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and potential complications. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision. Here are some of the potential risks and complications associated with gynaecomastia surgery:

    1. Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision sites. Proper post-operative care and adherence to hygiene protocols can help mitigate this risk.

    2. Bleeding: There may be some bleeding during or after the procedure. While significant bleeding is rare, it can occur and may require additional intervention.

    3. Scarring: Incisions made during the surgery can result in scarring. The visibility and extent of scarring depend on the surgical technique used and individual healing responses.

    4. Numbness or Sensation Changes: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation around the chest area, including numbness or increased sensitivity, can occur.

    5. Asymmetry: Although the goal is to achieve a symmetrical appearance, slight asymmetry between the two sides of the chest can sometimes occur.

    6. Contour Irregularities: There may be irregularities in the chest contour or unevenness due to the removal of tissue or fat. These issues can sometimes be corrected with additional procedures.

    7. Hematoma: A hematoma, or collection of blood outside of blood vessels, can form and may require drainage.

    8. Seroma: Fluid accumulation in the surgical area can occur, which may require drainage or additional treatment.

    9. Delayed Healing: Some patients may experience slower-than-expected healing, which can be influenced by individual factors such as overall health and adherence to post-operative care instructions.

    10. Anesthesia Risks: As with any procedure involving anesthesia, there are risks associated with the anesthetic itself, including allergic reactions or complications.

    11. Dissatisfaction with Aesthetic Results: While the aim is to meet your cosmetic goals, there is a possibility that you may be dissatisfied with the final results, requiring further revision surgery.

    12. Changes in Nipple Position: The surgery may affect the position or appearance of the nipples and areolas.

    It's important to discuss these risks with Dr Chinsee during the consultation to understand how they apply to your specific situation and to receive guidance on how to minimise potential complications.

  • Gynaecomastia surgery can usually be performed on patients over 18 years old. It is ideal to wait until the breasts are fully developed to assist in preventing future secondary procedures to remove further breast tissue. Dr Chinsee does not perform surgery on anyone under the age of 18.

  • Glandular tissue may sometimes reform and it may be beneficial to review the underlying cause of gynaecomastia.

  • Surgery is usually considered the optimal treatment for gynaecomastia if there is glandular tissue present.  Dr Chinsee may request an ultrasound scan as a pre-operative investigation to determine the extent of breast glandular tissue

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