Gynaecomastia Melbourne (Male Breast Reduction)

Gynaecomastia, the enlargement of male breast tissue, is a common condition that can affect men of all ages, including adolescents and older adults. It can have a significant impact on self-image, posture, clothing choices, and everyday comfort. Many men across Melbourne seek professional advice to better understand their treatment options and take control of their physical wellbeing. Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, offers personalised surgical solutions aimed at creating a flatter, more masculine chest appearance while prioritising patient safety and informed care.

What is Gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia refers to the benign enlargement of male breast glandular tissue. It is different from pseudogynaecomastia, which is primarily caused by excess fat without glandular tissue proliferation. Hormonal imbalances, genetics, certain medications, anabolic steroids, obesity, liver dysfunction, and underlying health conditions such as hypogonadism can all contribute to this condition. Gynaecomastia can be unilateral (one-sided) or bilateral (both sides) and may fluctuate or persist over time. Understanding the root cause is crucial, as reversible causes must be ruled out before considering surgical intervention.

When is Male Breast Reduction Surgery Considered?

Surgical intervention is generally considered when gynaecomastia persists despite weight management, exercise, and discontinuation of potential contributing medications. Surgery may also be recommended when the breast tissue causes physical discomfort, tenderness, or emotional distress.

Men often seek surgery not only to address physical concerns but also to feel more comfortable participating in activities such as swimming, running, or wearing fitted clothing. Suitable candidates are those who:

• Have stabilised their weight for several months.
• Are physically healthy with no uncontrolled medical conditions.
• Are healthy non-smokers (particularly marijuana) or willing to cease smoking temporarily to aid healing.
• Have clear, realistic expectations about the surgical outcomes.

A consultation with Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne ensures each patient’s suitability for the procedure is thoroughly assessed.

About Dr. Gary Kode: Specialist Care in Melbourne

Dr. Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon who provides comprehensive care for men considering gynaecomastia surgery in Melbourne. With decades of experience in aesthetic breast and body surgery, Dr. Kode combines technical skill with a patient-centred philosophy.

He personally manages every stage of the patient journey — from the initial consultation to the surgery and post-operative care — providing continuity, attention to detail, and a reassuring presence. He operates exclusively at accredited facilities such as Glenferrie Private Hospital and Masada Private Hospital, which meet the highest standards for patient safety.

Choosing a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon like Dr. Gary Kode ensures patients benefit from:

• Dedicated expertise in male chest contouring procedures.
• Individualised surgical planning based on detailed anatomical assessment.
• Thorough, honest discussions about realistic outcomes and potential risks.
• Consistent, personalised care throughout every stage of treatment.

Surgical Techniques for Male Breast Reduction

Dr. Gary Kode performs a detailed, individualised assessment of each patient’s chest structure to determine the most suitable surgical approach. His techniques may include:

• Glandular Excision: Dense, fibrous breast tissue that cannot be addressed with liposuction alone is surgically removed through a discreet incision, typically placed around the lower half of the areola to minimise visible scarring. This technique allows precise removal of firm glandular tissue, restoring a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
• Liposuction: Liposuction removes excess fatty tissue, improving chest contour and smoothing transitions between the chest and surrounding areas. Dr. Kode utilises refined techniques, including tumescent and power-assisted liposuction, to achieve a balanced, natural-looking outcome while minimising trauma to surrounding tissues.
• Combination Approach: In many cases, both glandular excision and liposuction are performed together. This approach ensures comprehensive chest reshaping by addressing both dense tissue and fatty deposits, leading to smoother, more consistent results across the chest wall.

The surgical plan is tailored based on skin elasticity, glandular tissue density, chest symmetry, and the patient’s desired results.

What to Expect During Consultation and Surgery

During an in-depth consultation at his Melbourne clinic, Dr. Gary Kode thoroughly evaluates each patient’s health, medical history, chest anatomy, and personal goals. Pre-operative investigations such as blood tests, imaging, or specialist referrals may be recommended in some cases to ensure patient safety.

The surgical plan, anaesthetic options, post-operative instructions, scar management strategies, and potential risks are discussed in detail. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and reflect on their decision without pressure, supporting informed consent.

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia at accredited hospitals. On the day of surgery, the emphasis is placed on:

• Precision and sterility during the procedure.
• Minimising blood loss and tissue trauma.
• Achieving natural, proportional chest contours.
• Ensuring patient comfort and safe recovery post-anaesthesia.

Recovery After Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Following surgery, patients are fitted with a support garment, which is worn day and night for the first four weeks to minimise swelling and support the healing tissues, and then during the day for another 2 months. This garment assists in reducing fluid accumulation and maintaining the new chest contour.

Additional aspects of recovery include:

• Drain management: Drains are only used where there has been open excision. They are usually removed within 24 hour
• Scar care: Hypafix tape is worn for 3 months providing that the chest is not too hairy and that allergy does not develop. Silicone sheets or gels may be recommended to optimise scar maturation.
• Activity restrictions: For the first 3 weeks, patients are instructed not to engage in anything that raises the pulse rate, temperature or blood pressure. Patients are advised to avoid lifting heavy objects, upper body exercises, and contact sports for four to six weeks.
• Follow-up schedule: Regular reviews at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 3 months post-surgery allow Dr. Kode to monitor progress.

Most patients can return to office-based work within 7–10 days, but recovery timelines vary individually. Full results are typically appreciated within 3–6 months once swelling resolves.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, male breast reduction surgery carries potential risks. These may include:

• Bleeding or haematoma formation: Blood pooling under the skin, which may require drainage.
• Infection: Rare with appropriate perioperative antibiotics and sterile technique.
• Changes in nipple or chest skin sensation: These changes may be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent.
• Scarring: Scars can vary in appearance and occasionally become hypertrophic or keloid.
• Asymmetry: Small differences in chest contour may persist despite meticulous surgical technique.
• Irregular contour or residual glandular tissue: May require revision surgery in a minority of cases.
• Risk of recurrence: as the cause of the problem is mostly not identified, it may not be possible to prevent recurrence.

During the consultation, Dr. Gary Kode provides a transparent discussion about all risks and explains strategies employed to minimise these complications. Informed consent is an integral part of ethical, patient-centred care.

Choosing a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon for Gynaecomastia Surgery

When considering male breast reduction surgery, it is essential to choose a qualified Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with accredited training and experience in aesthetic breast surgery. Expertise in both glandular excision and body contouring techniques is crucial for achieving natural, balanced outcomes.

Patients in Melbourne trust Dr. Gary Kode for his:

• Comprehensive approach to patient assessment and education.
• Skill in advanced surgical techniques designed for male chest contouring.
• Honest, clear communication regarding expectations and risks.
• Ongoing, consistent support before, during, and after surgery.

His commitment to continuity of care — personally overseeing consultations, surgery, and post-operative recovery — reflects his dedication to patient safety and satisfaction.

FAQs About Male Breast Reduction (Gynaecomastia) Surgery

Next Steps: Personalised Care with Dr. Gary Kode

For men considering male breast reduction surgery, the first step is to arrange a personalised consultation with Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne. During this confidential meeting, patients can openly discuss their concerns, explore appropriate treatment options, and receive professional guidance tailored to their needs.

Dr. Gary Kode is committed to supporting patients at every stage of their surgical journey, ensuring that each individual can make well-informed, confident decisions about their care. His goal is to deliver outcomes that are harmonious with each patient’s natural physique, always prioritising safety, education, and personalised attention.

Further Reading

• Read more about Breast Reduction Melbourne (Reduction Mammaplasty)
• Read more about Breast Surgery