Our approach to your care
Dr O’Mahony understands that gynaecomastia can be a sensitive concern.
She maintains a welcoming, understanding atmosphere and will work with you or your child to address this condition with care and professionalism.
Gynaecomastia (enlarged male breasts)
Gynaecomastia, or enlarged male breasts, can be a distressing problem that affects confidence and daily life.
Dr O’Mahony understands how this can impact men and boys, and she has expertise in correcting this condition with surgery.
What is gynaecomastia surgery?
Enlargement of the male breast can occur when there’s a reduction in testosterone levels compared to oestrogen levels, leading to growth of breast tissue.
In many cases, this is simply due to natural hormone fluctuations that occur during infancy, puberty, or older age.
Other causes can include significant hormone imbalances, liver or kidney failure, certain medications, alcohol, illicit drugs, or anabolic steroids.
Surgery may be suitable for adolescents or older men with established gynaecomastia.
Surgery is not typically performed on infants.
Before any surgery, Dr O’Mahony requires investigation into the cause of the abnormal breast growth, usually involving a medical history, physical examination, and blood tests.
It’s helpful if your local doctor or a paediatrician/endocrinologist has already investigated the cause before your appointment with Dr O’Mahony, so she can discuss treatment options when you meet.
The surgical approach depends on the size of the breast enlargement.
Breasts are composed of both fatty tissue and glandular tissue.
For small to moderate enlargement, a combination of liposuction (to remove fatty tissue and contour the chest) and surgical removal of glandular tissue (through a small incision around the areola) may be used. This usually doesn’t require removal of extra skin, as young skin typically settles well after surgery.
For larger enlargement, removal of both fatty and glandular tissue along with excess skin may be needed in the first operation, which results in some scars on the chest.
Surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic as day surgery.
You’ll need to wear a compressive vest for 6 weeks after surgery and avoid sports during this time.
Time off school or work depends on the size of the breasts – about one week may be sufficient for small or medium breasts, usually 2 weeks for large breasts.
Health fund coverage
Correction of gynaecomastia is considered reconstructive surgery rather than cosmetic surgery, which means some rebates are often available from Medicare and/or health funds.
Dr O’Mahony’s practice nurse can provide you with a quotation for surgery after your consultation.
