Enlargement of the male breast is common and often a source of embarrassment, affecting what men wear and whether they take their shirt off. When it does not resolve on its own, surgery can flatten the chest. In this guide New City Clinic explains the causes and the operation.
What causes gynecomastia?
True gynecomastia is an overgrowth of breast gland tissue, usually related to a hormonal imbalance; it can appear in puberty and later in life. Certain medications, anabolic steroids, alcohol and some medical conditions can contribute. Pseudogynecomastia is fat without gland enlargement and is linked to weight. A physician examines you and may request blood tests or an ultrasound to rule out an underlying cause before surgery.
How is the surgery performed?
Where the enlargement is mostly fat, liposuction through a few tiny incisions may be enough. Where firm gland tissue is present, it is removed through a small incision along the edge of the areola, usually together with liposuction to blend the chest contour. Surgery takes about 1–2 hours. Marked enlargement with loose skin may need skin removal and therefore longer scars.
Results and what affects them
The chest is flatter immediately, though swelling hides the final result for some weeks. Gland tissue that has been removed does not grow back, but weight gain or the use of steroids and certain drugs can cause recurrence. Asymmetry, contour irregularity and changes in nipple sensation are possible risks, which your surgeon will explain.
Gynecomastia surgery: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Gynecomastia surgery with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about gynecomastia surgery, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
First day
Usually discharged the same day or after one night; a compression vest is fitted.
Week 1
Swelling and bruising; desk work within a few days. Most patients fly home on day 4–6.
Weeks 2–6
The vest is worn continuously; chest exercises are avoided until approved.
Month 3
Swelling has settled and the final chest contour is visible.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
Can gynecomastia go away with exercise?
Exercise reduces fat but does not remove gland tissue. If firm tissue behind the nipple remains, surgery is the effective option.
Are the scars visible?
The incision sits at the border of the areola and usually heals to a fine line; liposuction incisions are a few millimetres long.
When can I go back to the gym?
Light cardio after about two weeks; chest and upper body training usually after four to six weeks with approval.
Deciding on gynecomastia surgery is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
