What is Gynaecomastia Surgery?
Gynaecomastia — the benign enlargement of breast tissue in men — affects a significant proportion of men at some point in their lives, most commonly during puberty or in middle age. It can range from a small, firm disc of tissue immediately beneath the nipple to more generalised breast enlargement, and frequently causes considerable self-consciousness, affecting confidence in everyday activities, sport and intimacy.
The surgical approach depends on the composition of the enlarged tissue. True gynaecomastia — in which glandular tissue is the primary component — requires direct excision, typically through a short periareolar incision placed precisely at the border of the areola, where the scar heals with minimal visibility. Pseudogynaecomastia (predominantly fatty tissue) can often be treated by liposuction alone. In many cases, a combination of liposuction and glandular excision produces the best contour, flattening the chest and restoring a masculine breast shape.
Mr. Blackburn brings to male surgery the same precision and attention to detail that defines his broader practice. Many men have experienced self-consciousness for years before seeking help, and he takes a non-judgemental, straightforward approach at consultation — focused on understanding your concerns and giving an honest, practical assessment of what surgery can achieve.
The Periareolar Technique
The periareolar incision is placed precisely at the lower border of the areola — the natural colour junction between the darker areola and the surrounding chest skin. This position is chosen because it heals exceptionally well, typically leaving a barely visible line that blends with the natural contour of the areola. Where liposuction is used alongside glandular excision, the fatty component is removed through tiny port-site incisions that leave marks of only a few millimetres. Mr. Blackburn plans incision size and position carefully, and uses the same layered, scar-conscious closure technique applied to all his procedures.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Most men presenting for gynaecomastia surgery are in good general health, at or near a stable weight, and have breast tissue that has been stable for at least one to two years. Where gynaecomastia has arisen at puberty, it is important to wait until the tissue has stabilised, as it often resolves spontaneously. Before recommending surgery, Mr. Blackburn will take a full history and may arrange relevant blood tests or an ultrasound to exclude any underlying hormonal cause or medication effect.
Recovery
Gynaecomastia surgery is performed as a day case under general anaesthesia, and patients typically go home the same day. A compression garment is worn for four to six weeks, helping to minimise swelling and support the healing tissues. Most patients return to desk-based work within one to two weeks and resume all exercise and heavy lifting after six weeks. The chest will feel firm and may be tender initially; final results, including full resolution of swelling, are typically visible at three to six months.
- Periareolar incision for minimal, well-hidden scarring
- Liposuction where fatty tissue is the primary component
- Combined approach for glandular and fatty gynaecomastia
- Day case procedure — home the same day
- Discreet, non-judgemental consultation
- New Victoria Hospital Kingston & Mount Alvernia Guildford