Before booking gynaecomastia surgery, ask your surgeon about their qualifications and GMC specialist registration, how they will treat your particular mix of gland, fat and skin, where the operation will take place, what aftercare is included, and what happens if a revision is needed. Clear, specific answers, given without pressure, are a good sign. This checklist explains what to ask and what a reassuring answer sounds like.
About the surgeon
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a straightforward yes, which you can confirm on the GMC website.
- What are your qualifications?: look for FRCS (Plast), which shows completion of specialist plastic surgery training.
- Which professional bodies do you belong to?: membership of BAAPS or BAPRAS indicates a commitment to professional standards and ongoing education.
- How often do you perform this operation?: a good surgeon will describe their experience honestly and show relevant before and after photographs in consultation.
About your diagnosis
- Is the fullness mostly gland, fat or loose skin?: the surgeon should examine you and explain the findings rather than rely on photographs.
- Does anything need checking first?: a careful surgeon will ask about medications, supplements and steroids, and arrange investigation if a lump is one-sided, hard or unusual.
- What grade is the gynaecomastia?: expect an explanation of how skin quality affects the plan and the likely scars.
About the operation
- Which technique will you use and why?: for example liposuction, gland excision, skin reduction or a combination, tailored to your anatomy.
- Where will the scars be?: a clear description, ideally with a diagram, including any longer scars if skin needs removing.
- What type of anaesthetic is used?: usually general anaesthetic given by a consultant anaesthetist.
- Where will the surgery take place?: a CQC-registered hospital with appropriate overnight and emergency facilities.
About risks and results
- What are the main risks in this case?: a balanced discussion covering haematoma, infection, contour irregularity, asymmetry, nipple sensation and scarring, without dismissing any of them.
- What result is realistic?: a good answer focuses on improvement and balance rather than perfection, and explains what surgery cannot change.
- Could it come back?: an honest answer covers the effects of weight gain, steroids and certain medicines.
About aftercare and cost
- Who is the contact if there is a concern?: there should be a clear route to the surgical team, including out of hours.
- How many follow-up appointments are included?: routine reviews should be part of your package, and you should see the operating surgeon.
- What is included in the price?: surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital and theatre fees, the compression garment and routine follow-up should be itemised.
- What is your revision policy?: a written explanation of what happens, and at what cost, if further surgery is needed.
With Mr Nassab, gynaecomastia surgery costs from £9,500 and the £150 consultation fee is charged separately.
About recovery and time off
- How much time off work is needed?: expect a range based on your job: often around a week for desk work and longer for physical roles.
- How long is the compression vest worn?: typically around six weeks, with clear instructions on when it can be removed.
- When can training restart?: a staged plan for walking, cardio, lower-body work and, finally, chest training at around six weeks.
- When is driving possible?: once a seatbelt is comfortable and an emergency stop can be performed without pain, and in line with your insurer’s terms.
A surgeon who gives written recovery instructions and explains them in person makes the weeks after surgery much easier to plan around.
Warning signs during a consultation
Be cautious if you are offered a discount for booking quickly, if you only meet a salesperson or never see the operating surgeon before the day, if risks are brushed aside, or if there is no clear aftercare plan. Packages abroad may look cheaper but can make follow-up and managing complications difficult. Take time to reflect, and consider a second consultation before committing. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a gynaecomastia consultation take?
Long enough to take a full history, examine the chest, discuss options and risks, and answer your questions without feeling rushed.
Is it worth bringing a list of questions?
Yes. Writing questions down and noting the answers helps you compare consultations and remember the details later.
Should a partner or friend come along?
Many men find it helpful to bring someone they trust, as a second person often remembers details and asks different questions.
What should be brought to the consultation?
A list of current medicines and supplements, details of any previous chest surgery or investigations, and your questions written down.
Is a second consultation normal?
Yes. A second appointment before booking gives time to clarify the plan and is encouraged for any cosmetic surgery.
