GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY IN PARIS: CAUSES, PROCEDURE, RESULTS AND PRICE

GYNECOMASTIA: CLINICAL DEFINITION AND INITIAL DIAGNOSIS

The term gynecomastia comes from the Greek « gyne »and « mastos »which means «female breast». It is the first male breast pathology. Gynecomastia corresponds to breast enlargement linked to the excessive presence of glandular tissue in the male breast. This firm core, centered under the areola, can be distinguished from the more diffuse fatty tissue. It can be unilateral or bilateral, discrete or highly visible. The surgeon's role is to objectivize this glandular development, to differentiate it from a simple adipomastia and assess the aesthetic, functional and psychological impact on the man concerned.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GYNECOMASTIA AND ADIPOMASTIA

True gynecomastia is dominated by a firm glandular core behind the areola, often sensitive to pressure.

Adipomastia, on the other hand, essentially corresponds to excess fat in the chest area, with no real mammary gland developed. Palpation can provide a good orientation: elastic central mass for gynecomastia, soft, diffuse filling for adipomastia.

TYPES OF GYNECOMASTIA (SIMON CLASSIFICATION) AND IMPACT ON SURGERY

Simon's classification describes four grades of gynecomastia according to breast volume and skin excess.

• type I corresponds to a moderate increase without excess skin;
• type IIa to greater volume, without excess skin;
• type IIb hypertrophy with the onset of excess skin;
• type III a well-developed chest, with significant excess skin reminiscent of a woman's breast.

This classification guides the type of surgery required. For forms I and IIa, glandular excision via a peri-areolar incision, combined with liposuction of the thorax, is usually sufficient.

For types IIb and III, the procedure becomes more complex: skin may need to be removed and the areola repositioned to obtain a flatter thorax.

The surgeon adapts the technique according to the grade, the quality of the skin and the desired aesthetic objective.

CAUSES OF GYNECOMASTIA AND WHEN SURGICAL TREATMENT BECOMES NECESSARY

There are many causes of gynecomastia. They may be :

• physiological(puberty, hormonal aging),
• drug-related or substances,
• linked to diseases rarer.

In a significant number of cases, no precise cause is found: this is known as gynecomastia. idiopathic. This context is important to analyze before deciding on treatment.

Surgical treatment becomes relevant when breast volume persists despite time, when the gland is stabilized, The main correctable causes have been treated, and physical or social discomfort remains significant.

The aim is to correct the chest while respecting the overall health of the patient and his or her life project, without neglecting the psychological dimension.

PHYSIOLOGICAL CAUSES: PUBERTY, ANDROPAUSE, HORMONAL VARIATIONS

During puberty, the vast majority of teenagers experience temporary changes to their breasts: the mammary gland reacts to hormonal variations, This creates a discreet relief behind the areola. In most cases, this development regresses spontaneously within one to two years. Before the end of this period, surgery is only envisaged in exceptional cases.

Later, adulthood or andropause, the gradual decline in testosterone and changes in metabolism can lead to the development of from breast tissue. When this phenomenon is associated with excess weight or other factors, gynecomastia becomes more visible. A hormonal check-up is then performed to assess the extent of this imbalance and identify a possible cause. endocrine to be treated before any surgery.

DRUG AND SUBSTANCE CAUSES

Certain medications promote gland development anti-androgens, prostate treatments, molecules used in cardiology, anti-depressants and anti-ulcer drugs, among others. Many substances also increase the risk: excessive alcohol, cannabis, anabolics, bodybuilding supplements containing hormonal derivatives.

When gynecomastia appears after the introduction of a treatment or product, the first reflex is to report the problem to the prescribing physician. Adapting or changing the medication may lead to partial improvement. If, despite these measures, the gland remains enlarged and troublesome, surgery will be the second choice, once the medicinal situation has stabilized.

RARE PATHOLOGICAL CAUSES

More rarely, gynecomastia is the result of consequence of pathology: testicular tumor, thyroid disease, liver damage, complex endocrine disorder or genetic syndrome. In this context, the priority is to diagnose and treat the disease causing the hormonal imbalance.

The assessment may include an examination endocrine testicular ultrasound, liver work-up or more advanced imaging tests. Only then, when the pathology has been managed and excess breast tissue persists, is gynecomastia cured. This step-by-step approach guarantees a rigorous, safe and medically coherent approach.

DIAGNOSIS: HOW DO YOU CONFIRM GYNECOMASTIA?

Initial consultation with the surgeon

The first consultation aims to distinguish excess fat in the chest (adipomastia) from glandular breast hypertrophy. The patient is asked to explain how long the volume has existed, how it has evolved, possible triggers (puberty, medication, weight gain), and its impact on daily life.

The surgeon examines the breasts, palpates the gland, assesses any asymmetry, classifies the form of gynecomastia and presents the options: observation, medical treatment or surgery.

Expectations are clarified, as well as post-operative constraints, anesthesia and recovery time.

Pre-operative medical check-up

When surgery is envisaged, a medical check-up confirms the indication. A mammary ultrasound is used to visualize the gland and its distribution; hormone levels are prescribed if an imbalance is suspected; a blood test and an anesthesia consultation verify the safety of the procedure.

Pre-operative instructions are given: smoking cessation, adaptation of certain treatments, hospitalization conditions and time to surgery. The aim is to provide a framework for the surgical project and ensure the safety of the operation.

AVAILABLE TREATMENTS

Observation and non-surgical treatments

In recent forms, particularly pubertal or drug-related, the first step is observation The doctor monitors progress over several months, explains the nature of the phenomenon and checks for spontaneous regression.

Discontinuation of a triggering substance or management of a hormonal imbalancel can reduce glandular volume.

In selected cases, drug treatment is discussed with an endocrinologist The aim is to rebalance the hormonal context, not to remove old, fibrous tissue. When these solutions fail to produce tangible changes in discomfort or the appearance of the thorax, surgery becomes the most consistent option for achieving a lasting result.

 Surgical treatment of breast excess in men

Surgery aims to remove excess mammary gland and, if necessary, to associate a liposuction local fat or a skin gesture when the skin has lost its elasticity. The combination of techniques - glandular excision, liposuction, skin plasty - depends on the type of gynecomastia and the aesthetic or functional impact.

This treatment is proposed only after a complete workup (clinical, imaging, hormonal context) and a frank discussion of the realistic outcome.

GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY: STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE

PREPARATION FOR SURGERY

In the weeks prior to surgery, it is recommended to’quit smoking or nicotine, of stabilize your weight and’avoid medications increase the risk of bleeding, in agreement with the attending physician. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake and maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote healing.

The day before, prepare your documents, thoracic support garment and your belongings for the clinic. You will be reminded of the fasting instructions and the time of arrival in the operating room.

This simple, yet structured preparation means that the operation can be approached within a clear framework, without last-minute improvisation.

ANESTHESIA AND INCISION ZONES

The majority of gynecomastia operations are performed under general anaesthetic, to ensure comfort and immobility. In special cases, very localized shapes can be produced under reinforced local anaesthetic, However, this is not the most frequent situation for a complete intervention.

The incisions are placed at the junction between the skin and the areola, in the lower part. They provide access to the mammary gland to be removed. Small additional incisions of approx. 4 mm, The liposuction cannulas are concealed in the natural folds of the skin.

In forms requiring skin resection, the tracings are more extensive and are discussed in detail in the preoperative consultation.

Position of incisions for gynecomastia treatment

SURGICAL TECHNIQUES ACCORDING TO THE TYPE OF GYNECOMASTIA (1 TO 4)

For gynecomastia type I and IIa, the standard technique combines peripheral liposuction and removal of the glandular core through a periareolar incision. This approach corrects both central relief and lateral fat deposits, while minimizing scarring.

For types IIb and III, Excess skin sometimes warrants a more elaborate plasty: removal of skin, repositioning of the areola, sometimes reduction of its diameter. The aim is to eliminate the pendulous breast shape and restore a flatter torso, even if this means more visible scars.

The exact choice of technique is individualized, taking into account age, skin quality, glandular volume and aesthetic expectations.

DURATION OF OPERATION AND HOSPITALIZATION CONDITIONS

A gynecomastia operation lasts on average between one and two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the extent of the liposuction. At the end of the procedure, a compression bandage is applied and the compression garment is fitted to the torso.

Care is most often provided by on an outpatient basis (you go home the same day), accompanied, after a few hours of monitoring. An overnight stay in hospital may be proposed for more severe forms of the disease, or for people coming from far away.

In all cases, instructions for the first night and the first few days are detailed before discharge.

POST-OPERATIVE RECOVERY AND CONVALESCENCE

Pain, swelling and tissue evolution

Post-operative discomfort is generally moderate These include chest tension, a feeling of aching or tightness around the areola. In most cases, simple painkillers prescribed on discharge are sufficient.

Edema peaked during the First 3 to 7 days then gradually regresses, while bruising may migrate to the abdomen after associated liposuction.
The thorax may present hard or irregular areas to the touch, corresponding to the internal healing. They soften over the weeks, sometimes with massages authorized by the surgeon.

Sudden pain, a rapid increase in volume on one side only, or fever are all reasons to contact us immediately.

Wearing chest compression

Compression garments is part of the treatment. Maintains tissues, limits edema and promotes skin-to-muscle adhesion. It is worn continuously for several weeks, then progressively lightened according to progress.
Even though it may seem restrictive, a vest adapted to the body shape clearly improves the quality of the result and everyday comfort under clothing.

The surgeon's follow-up determines the precise duration, which varies according to the size of the glandular volume removed and the elasticity of the skin.

Back to business

Resumption of sedentary work is generally possible between 7 and 10 days, when mobility improves and pain subsides.

Activities involving the carrying of loads or repetitive movements of the arms require a prolonged period of time, often 3 to 4 weeks.
Sport is reintroduced in phases, starting with walking or exercise cycling, followed by lower-body exercises. Movements targeting the pectoral muscles are only resumed after medical validation, when internal healing and skin retraction are sufficiently advanced.

RESULTS AFTER GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY: WHAT TO EXPECT

The result evolves over several months. The first changes appear as the swelling subsides. Skin retraction and stabilization of the thorax take time.

Around the 3rd month, breast volume is corrected and the silhouette is generally close to the expected result.
Between 3 and 6 months, The skin gradually tightens, irregularities diminish and the torso takes on a more natural shape.

A reduced sensitivity of the areola or thorax is frequent. It improves with nerve recovery.

Scars follow a simple cycle:

• red and a little thickened at first,
• then paler and thinner as the weeks go by.

Compression, sun protection and silicone dressings improve healing and the quality of the result.

A touch-up is only discussed after complete stabilization, i.e. after 6 months, when the appearance of the torso and skin quality are considered definitive.

PRICE OF GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY AND HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE

The cost of gynecomastia surgery depends on technical complexity and operating time. A simple glandular excision combined with liposuction on an outpatient basis is not priced the same as surgery involving skin resection and areolar repositioning, which requires more team and OR time.

The surgeon's fees and the anaesthetist, Clinic fees, compression garments and post-operative consultations are added to the overall budget. Visit detailed quotation, is essential to understand what the amount covers and to compare items objectively.

In some cases, when the gynecomastia is clearly glandular, significant and a source of functional discomfort, the’procedure can be coded as reconstructive surgery Social security covers part of the cost, and mutual insurance companies can top it up depending on the contract.

If the volume is judged to be essentially aesthetic (adipomastia, moderate shape, no medical justification), the whole procedure remains at the patient's expense.

The remainder to pay corresponds to what the Social Security and the mutual insurance do not cover:

• overcharging,
• anesthesia,
• clinic fees,
• restraint
• or consultations.

Price of gynecomastia with Dr. Djian in Paris

*Plastic surgery prices are given as an indication and are non-contractual.
The first cosmetic surgery consultation at our office in the 16th arrondissement of Paris costs 100 euros.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

No operation, no matter how well mastered, is completely risk-free. Gynecomastia treatment can lead to general complications (related to anesthesia) or local complications (hematoma, infection, scarring problems or imperfect results). Talking about it clearly is part of safety: the patient knows what to look out for and how to react if an anomaly appears.

IMMEDIATE COMPLICATIONS

Immediate complications The main causes of hematoma are a large hematoma, early infection, abnormal bleeding or, exceptionally, a localized skin problem. A hematoma manifests itself as painful, asymmetric swelling, and may require a rapid return to the OR for evacuation.

An infection is characterized by fever, increasing pain, redness and suspicious discharge from a breast. It is treated with antibiotics, sometimes combined with drainage. Fortunately, these situations are rare. when the operation is carried out under rigorous conditions and post-operation instructions are respected.

LATE COMPLICATIONS

Over time, complications mainly concern the aesthetic result: residual asymmetry, small localized hollows, irregular relief, enlarged or pigmented scars. Some evolve favorably, while others may require corrective surgery after several months.

A true recurrence, linked to a new glandular development, remains rare if the gland has been correctly removed, but it can occur in the event of significant weight gain or of resumption of hormonal substances. Regular monitoring enables us to identify these changes and discuss solutions calmly, without rushing.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PLASTIC SURGEON FOR GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY

Choosing a gynecomastia surgeon involves evaluating the following objective, verifiable criteria.

It must be qualified in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, listed on the Medical Council, and work in a structure with a accredited operating room.

Specific experience counts: volume of annual procedures, diversity of cases treated, and portfolio of anonymized results showing before/after male breasts. A professional accustomed to male torso issues understands the impact of the gland, the management of associated fat volume and the scarring implications around the areola. Transparency is key:

• precise description of the technique used (excision, liposuction, skin plasty)
• real risks,possible complications, aesthetic limitations
• durations surgery, healing, return to work
• complete quote surgeon/anesthetist fees, clinic fees, compression garment.

Informed consent is not an administrative signature but a discussion: what you can get, what you can't expect, and at what cost.

A good surgeon encourages questions about price, reimbursement, time off work, impact on intimate life or sports.

Finally, post-operative follow-up must be structured A reliable surgeon is the one who stays with the patient to ensure that he or she remains in good health: scheduled visits, adjusting restraints, monitoring haematomas, managing asymmetries, providing support when returning to work. A reliable surgeon is one who stays available after the act, able to intervene in the event of a problem and anticipate touch-ups if necessary.

Structured support, such as that offered by Doctor Djian in Paris, This allows you to go through each stage - pre-, intra- and post-surgery - with a single point of contact, available to tailor answers to your individual needs and pace of life.

GYNECOMASTIA AND BODYBUILDING: WHY TRAINING IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR SURGERY

Impact of fat volume and mass gain

Weight training reduces excess fat, improves posture and strengthens the chest. In adipomastia, this loss of fatty tissue can refine the chest and improve the appearance under clothing. But training does not remove the mammary gland The glandular hypertrophy remains, visible behind the areola and sometimes even more marked when the pectoral is well defined. When discomfort persists despite diet and regular activity, surgery is the only way to remove the gland and smooth the area.

Risks of anabolics and boosters

Steroids and hormone boosters increase muscle mass, but disrupt the estrogen/testosterone balance and promote hypertrophy breast. Induced gynecomastia may become irreversible after discontinuation of the product and does not regress without surgery.

Uncontrolled supplements or “home-made” protocols expose you to lasting endocrine complications. It's better to stick to progressive training and a correct diet, and to consult a specialist if a sudden change in the thorax appears.

ADOLESCENT GYNECOMASTIA: SHOULD SURGERY BE PERFORMED?

Teenage gynecomastia is frequent and often transient. It appears within a few months, causing concern to both parents and adolescent, and then regresses in a large number of cases as puberty progresses. The question of surgery arises above all when the volume is large, has persisted for several years and seriously impairs social life.

WHEN TO WAIT AND WHEN TO ACT

When gynecomastia is recent, moderate and clearly linked to a growth phase, the priority is to observe the evolution, by explaining the situation. Regular monitoring provides reassurance and helps identify cases that resolve spontaneously. Surgery is not indicated at this early stage.

On the other hand, breast hypertrophy that is marked, painful or responsible for strong social isolation, especially if it persists beyond two years, may justify intervention in older adolescents or young adults. The decision takes into account psychological maturity, the completion of growth, and the impact on schooling and daily life.

SURGERY VERSUS OBSERVATION

Rather than opposing “operation” and “waiting” head-on, it's useful to talk in terms of information, psychological support if needed, body image support, then surgical decision when criteria met. Working with a trusted psychologist or doctor can help to distinguish deep-seated suffering from more minor discomfort, which may improve over time.

In this context, surgery is a response to a stabilized and clearly disabling situation, not as an impulsive response to a period of doubt. This time of shared reflection protects the adolescent and makes the treatment decision more secure.

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF GYNECOMASTIA: WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP

Gynecomastia is more than just excess breast volume. It collides with self-image, the representation of virility and the relationship with the gaze of others.

In a society obsessed with physical performance and the cult of the “dry, flat, muscular” male body”, The slightest irregularity in the torso becomes a source of shame. Many men change their clothes, avoid the pool, changing rooms, tight-fitting T-shirts or intimate situations, convinced they'll be judged.

The body becomes a permanent paradox: breasts perceived as “feminine”, masculine identity asserted, anticipation of remarks, even if no one says anything. Social pressure feeds a closed circle: the more the man hides, the greater the embarrassment, and the more gynecomastia invades his thoughts.

Help becomes necessary when the condition imposes avoidance strategies, limits leisure activities, modifies emotional life or generates social anxiety.
A surgeon treats the physical side by removing the gland and correcting the relief; ; a psychologist, sexologist or therapist helps to deconstruct beliefs (“I'm not a real man”, “everyone's looking at me”) and to regain a place in the social space without hiding.

For many, gynecomastia treatment is not just an operation: it's the moment when they stop living under the imposed standard of a “perfect” torso and take back control of their body and their life.