Gynecomastia is the condition characterized by the enlargement of a male’s chest due to a hormonal imbalance.

1. Primary (Physiological) Gynecomastia: This type appears during puberty and typically affects boys aged 13-17 years.
2. Secondary (Pathological) Gynecomastia: This form can occur in males of any age and is often associated with conditions such as testicular tumors, liver disease, thyroid disease, varicocele, and certain medication side effects. It is generally linked to weight gain and may stop or regress after addressing the underlying cause.

While secondary gynecomastia can often be resolved by addressing the causative factors, primary gynecomastia typically does not regress naturally, respond to diet or exercise, or improve with medication. Surgery is usually required for correction.

Cosmetic surgeons perform gynecomastia surgery, also known as man-boob surgery, to address this condition. The procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat, skin tightening, and reshaping the chest to achieve proportionality with the rest of the body. Surgical techniques for gynecomastia include liposuction to remove excess fat and excision to remove excess breast gland tissue. Primary gynecomastia surgery aims to ensure that gynecomastia does not recur in the patient’s lifetime.

Men of all ages can be susceptible to this condition.

The criteria for being an ideal candidate for Gynecomastia surgery include:

1. Men with Primary Gynecomastia that does not respond to exercise or diet.
2. Men with Secondary Gynecomastia that does not regress after treating the underlying factor or disease.
3. Men with realistic expectations about the surgical outcome.
4. Men suffering from Gynecomastia (both primary and secondary).
5. Physically healthy and fit men.
6. Non-smoking men.
7. Men with realistic expectations for the surgery.

Preparation for this surgery is straightforward and uncomplicated. You will need to undergo routine blood tests to evaluate your suitability for anesthesia and the surgery.

The doctor may request that you reduce the use of some of your regular medications in the days preceding the surgery. As part of the preparation for the surgery, you will also be required to quit smoking.

To begin with, you will be provided with support garments to wear during your recovery phase. These garments aid in the healing process by reducing swelling and bruising.

Additionally, the doctor will prescribe specific medications to ensure your comfort and alleviate pain. It is normal to experience numbness or tingling sensations in the operated areas for about 3-4 months following the surgery, but this will gradually resolve on its own.

The doctor recommends limiting your physical activity for a few days, and the typical recovery duration ranges from 1-2 weeks.

The cost of gynecomastia surgery varies depending on several factors, including:

1. The specific procedure performed for gynecomastia surgery.
2. Your unique case.
3. The location of the clinic and the experience of the doctor.

As a result, it is not possible to provide a ballpark figure for this surgery. Your cosmetic surgeon will provide you with an actual cost estimate after your consultation.