Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia Surgery in Brussels

Gynecomastia — the enlargement of male breast tissue — is one of the most common reasons men consult a plastic surgeon. It is benign, but it can affect confidence, posture, and the clothes a man feels comfortable wearing. At his practice in Uccle, Brussels, Dr Giancarlo Cantella treats gynecomastia for both French- and English-speaking patients, including the city’s international community.

What is gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a benign increase in the glandular and/or fatty tissue of the male chest. It can affect one or both sides and ranges from a small, firm disc behind the nipple to a more noticeable breast shape. It is distinct from simple excess fat (pseudogynecomastia), and part of the consultation is to determine which tissue — gland, fat, or both — is responsible, because that decides the technique.

What causes it?

Common causes include hormonal shifts during puberty, natural changes with age, certain medications, anabolic steroid use, significant weight change, and some medical conditions. In many cases no single cause is found (idiopathic). A consultation rules out reversible causes before surgery is considered.

The surgical techniques

Dr Cantella tailors the approach to the tissue involved:

Liposuction — when the excess is mainly fatty, through tiny incisions that leave almost no visible scar.
Glandular excision — when firm gland tissue is present, removed through a discreet incision at the edge of the areola.
Combined technique — liposuction plus excision, for mixed cases, which are the most frequent.

The procedure

Surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately 1 hour. It is generally a day-case procedure, so you return home the same day. Most patients resume desk work within 3 or 4 days.

Recovery and results

A compression garment is worn for 4 weeks to reduce swelling and help the chest settle into its new contour. Strenuous exercise is paused for a few weeks. Final results appear as the swelling resolves over the following weeks to months. Scars are positioned to be as discreet as possible and fade over time.

Why patients choose Dr Cantella in Brussels

Dr Cantella is a plastic surgeon based in Uccle, Brussels, consulting in English, French and Italian — practical for Brussels’ international residents. Each plan is individual, discussed in a private consultation where you can ask about technique, scarring, recovery and cost. 

Is gynecomastia surgery permanent?

The removed gland does not grow back. Results are lasting, provided weight stays stable and there is no new hormonal or medication trigger.

Will there be visible scars?

Incisions are small and placed at the areola edge or in natural creases. They are designed to be discreet and typically fade over months.

Is it painful?

Discomfort is usually moderate and well controlled with simple pain relief in the first days.

When can I exercise again?

Light activity within days; chest and heavy training after a few weeks, on Dr Cantella’s advice.

Can both fat and gland be treated in one operation?

Yes — the combined technique addresses both in a single procedure, which is the most common situation.

How do I start?

Book a consultation. Dr Cantella will examine you, identify the type of gynecomastia, and explain the technique suited to you.