Virtual Consultations Available! Start Your Journey Today.
Schedule A ConsultationGynecomastia surgery can be a life-changing procedure for men struggling with excess breast tissue, puffy nipples, or a chest that appears soft or feminine. Whether caused by hormones, medication, or genetics, gynecomastia can take a toll on confidence, self-image, and everyday life. In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know about the gynecomastia surgery before and after experience. From before the procedure to after recovery, so you can feel fully informed and prepared.
Before undergoing surgery, a consultation with a board-certified gynecomastia specialist is essential. During this appointment, your surgeon will:
Photos may also be taken during this phase to document your starting point and help you visualize potential outcomes. In some cases, hormone tests may be recommended to rule out underlying imbalances.
Many patients are surprised to learn that their chest enlargement is not caused by fat alone, but also by dense glandular tissue that won’t go away with exercise or diet. This tissue must be surgically removed for a permanent solution.
You’ll receive detailed instructions in the days leading up to surgery, which typically include:
The procedure itself usually takes 1 to 2 hours and is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on your case and preferences.
Gynecomastia surgery typically involves one or both of the following techniques:
The goal is a smooth, masculine chest with minimal scarring and natural definition. In more advanced cases, skin tightening may also be necessary to address sagging or stretched skin.
After gynecomastia surgery, you’ll be placed in a compression garment to minimize swelling and support the healing process. Most patients are able to return home the same day. Here’s what you can expect during the early recovery phase:
Pain is usually mild and well managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medications.
As swelling subsides over several weeks, the final shape of your chest will begin to take form. Most patients start to see significant changes within the first month, with final results visible around the three- to six-month mark.
Post-surgery photos typically show:
For many men, the psychological transformation is as significant as the physical one. Wearing fitted shirts, removing a shirt at the beach, or simply looking in the mirror becomes a more comfortable and confident experience.
Reviewing before and after photos is an essential part of your decision-making process. These photos allow you to see real results from real patients who had similar body types or gynecomastia severity levels. At our Newport Beach gynecomastia practice, we offer a full gallery of results to help you understand the surgical possibilities and set realistic expectations.
Each result varies based on:
Before and after photos also demonstrate the surgeon’s consistency and aesthetic skill, especially with achieving natural, masculine contours.
For many men, gynecomastia surgery is not just about aesthetics. It’s about freedom from years of discomfort, embarrassment, and frustration. Patients commonly report:
Most say the surgery was one of the best decisions they ever made for themselves.
If you’ve been struggling with the appearance of your chest and want to explore your options, we invite you to schedule a gynecomastia consultation with Dr. Joseph Cruise. With thousands of successful gynecomastia surgeries performed, our team will guide you through every step of the journey—from evaluation to transformation.
In-person and virtual consultations are available for patients in Los Angeles, Orange County, and across the U.S.
Dr. Joseph Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Regarded as one of the top gynecomastia surgeons in the world, Dr. Cruise has gynecomastia-specific content that can be found at lagynecomastia.org. Dr. Cruise has dedicated his career to cosmetic surgery but has also had extensive training in General Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Joseph Cruise is also a member of the Rhinoplasty Society as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Use our Fast Track program to receive a rapid assessment with a recommended treatment plan and estimated surgical quote.
Get Started