Top-Rated Gynecomastia Surgery in Toronto
Excess male breast tissue can affect confidence, comfort, and how you feel in your own body.
Dr. McRae specializes in gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction) to help men achieve a flatter, firmer, more masculine chest with natural-looking results.
Approach
Customized Surgery
Liposuction ± gland excision ± skin excision
Surgery Time
Approximately 2-3 hours
Recovery Time
Return to work in 1–2 weeks
Resume full activity in 6–8 weeks
Cost
Starting from $9,500 CAD
Final pricing determined by surgical complexity
A Trusted, Surgeon-Led Clinic for Gynecomastia Surgery in Toronto
McRae Plastic Surgery is a boutique, surgeon-led practice specializing in gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction) for men in Burlington, Toronto and across Canada. Led by Drs. McRae, our focus is on evidence-based surgical techniques, individualized planning, and natural-looking, long-term results.
As a boutique practice, your care is personally managed by your surgeon at every stage, from consultation, to surgery, to all post-operative follow-ups.
Why Men Choose McRae Plastic Surgery
- Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon (Canada & U.S.)
- Surgeon-Led Care from Consultation Through Recovery
- Specialized Expertise in Gynecomastia Surgery
- Associate Professor of Plastic Surgery
- Personalized, One-on-One Consultations
- Focus on Natural, Masculine Results
All procedures are performed using Health Canada-approved techniques in accredited surgical facilities, with patient safety and long-term outcomes as the priority.
Your Surgeons
Your gynecomastia surgery is performed by one of the McRae surgeons, the same surgeon you meet during your consultation and who personally follows you through recovery. As a boutique practice, we do not delegate surgery or post-operative care to rotating providers.
This continuity allows for thoughtful surgical planning, clear communication, and attentive follow-up care, particularly important for procedures that affect body image and confidence
Dr. Mark McRae
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Matthew McRae
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
What Is Gynecomastia Surgery and Why Choose It?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is a procedure designed to correct excess breast tissue in men that does not respond to diet or exercise. This condition may involve glandular tissue, fatty tissue, loose skin, or a combination of these factors, and can affect physical comfort, clothing fit, and self-confidence.
Gynecomastia surgery addresses the underlying tissue directly to create a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour. Surgical techniques are tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
- Targeted Correction
Excess glandular tissue and fat are removed to restore a more natural male chest shape. In some patients, particularly those with significant skin laxity or a history of major weight loss, skin excision may also be required to achieve optimal contour. The need for skin excision is determined during consultation based on skin quality, chest anatomy, and prior weight changes - Improved Physical Comfort
Reducing excess breast tissue can make physical activity more comfortable and help eliminate irritation or movement-related discomfort. - Greater Confidence and Ease in Clothing
Many patients feel more comfortable wearing fitted clothing, athletic wear, or going shirtless without self-consciousness. - Long-Lasting Results
Results are typically durable when contributing factors such as weight changes, medications, or hormonal conditions are appropriately managed. - Discreet, Professional Surgical Care
Treatment is provided in a respectful, confidential setting with individualized planning and attentive follow-up throughout recovery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery may be appropriate for men with excess breast tissue that does not improve with lifestyle changes alone. Candidates typically seek treatment because the condition affects chest appearance, physical comfort, or confidence.
A consultation allows for individualized assessment to determine whether surgery, and which technique, is appropriate.
You May Be a Candidate for Gynecomastia Surgery If:
- Persistent Glandular Breast Tissue: True gynecomastia involves excess glandular tissue, often related to hormonal factors or medications, and does not resolve with weight loss or exercise alone. Surgery can directly address this tissue when non-surgical options are ineffective.
- Excess Chest Fullness Despite Weight Control: In some men, fatty tissue contributes to chest fullness and can coexist with glandular gynecomastia. Surgery may be considered when chest contour remains unchanged despite achieving or maintaining a healthy weight.
- Asymmetry of the Chest: Gynecomastia may affect one side more than the other, resulting in visible asymmetry. Surgical correction can help restore a more balanced and natural chest contour.
- Skin Laxity After Weight Loss: Men who have experienced significant weight loss may be left with loose or sagging chest skin. In these cases, gynecomastia surgery may include skin excision to improve chest shape and definition.
- Physical or Psychological Impact: Candidates often report discomfort during activity, difficulty with clothing fit, or self-consciousness related to chest appearance.
Gynecomastia Surgery Before & After
Below are examples of outcomes following gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction) performed at McRae Plastic Surgery. These images illustrate improvements in chest contour achieved through individualized surgical planning based on each patient’s anatomy.
View additional cases in our gynecomastia before and after gallery.
How Gynecomastia Is Treated: Surgical Options Explained
Not all gynecomastia is the same. The most appropriate surgical approach depends on the type of tissue involved – fat, glandular tissue, skin laxity, or a combination of these factors. During consultation, your chest anatomy is carefully assessed to determine the most effective and appropriate technique.
Common Surgical Approaches Include:
- Liposuction for Fat-Dominant Chest Fullness: When chest fullness is primarily due to excess fatty tissue, liposuction may be used to contour and flatten the chest through small, discreet incisions.
- Glandular Tissue Excision: True gynecomastia involves firm glandular tissue that does not respond to weight loss or exercise. In these cases, surgical excision is required to remove the gland and achieve a smooth, masculine contour.
- Puffy Nipple Correction: In some patients, excess glandular tissue or skin beneath the areola can create a puffy nipple appearance. This can often be corrected through a small peri-areolar incision with minimal visible scarring.
- Skin Excision for Laxity or Weight Loss–Related Changes: Men with significant skin laxity, particularly following major weight loss, may benefit from skin excision in addition to tissue removal to improve chest shape and definition.
Many patients require a combination of techniques to achieve the best result. The appropriate approach is determined during consultation based on anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals.
Patient Case Example: Gynecomastia Surgery
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Background
A 48-year-old male with bilateral gynecomastia sought surgical correction after persistent chest fullness failed to respond to exercise and weight training. He had no underlying medical conditions and no history of anabolic steroid use.
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Concerns and Goals
His goal was to achieve a chest contour more consistent with his overall muscular build while maintaining a natural appearance and minimizing visible scarring. -
Procedure
Surgical treatment consisted of liposuction combined with glandular tissue removal using a peri-areolar pull-through technique. This approach allowed for precise contouring while keeping incisions discreet. -
Outcome
At three months post-operatively, the chest contour appeared flatter and more proportionate to his physique. The result was natural in appearance, with minimal visible scarring and improved overall chest definition.
Patient Case Example: Chest Contouring After Weight Loss
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Background
A male patient in his 50s presented following significant weight loss achieved through diet and exercise. Despite maintaining a stable weight, he was left with excess, lax skin of the chest that could not be improved with non-surgical methods due to reduced skin elasticity. -
Concerns and Goals
His primary goal was to improve chest contour by addressing excess skin and achieving a more natural, proportional appearance consistent with his overall body transformation. -
Procedure
Given the degree of skin laxity, an excisional chest contouring procedure with nipple, areola grafting was recommended. Liposuction and gland pull-through techniques were not appropriate in this case, as skin excision was required to achieve optimal contour and positioning. -
Outcome
At one year following surgery, the chest contour appeared significantly improved, with scars healing well and continuing to fade. The patient reported improved comfort and confidence in his chest appearance.
Patient Case Example: Long-Standing Gynecomastia
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Background
A male patient in his late 60s presented with long-standing glandular gynecomastia that had been present since adolescence. Despite maintaining good overall health and fitness, the condition remained a persistent source of physical discomfort and self-consciousness. -
Concerns and Goals
After living with gynecomastia for several decades, his goal was to achieve a flatter, more masculine chest contour and address the underlying glandular tissue responsible for the enlargement. -
Procedure
Surgical treatment consisted of liposuction combined with periareolar glandular excision. Liposuction was used to contour the chest, while the periareolar approach allowed for precise removal of firm glandular tissue with minimal visible scarring. -
Outcome
At one month post-operatively, the chest contour showed clear improvement, consistent with expected early healing. Mild swelling and firmness were present, as anticipated at this stage of recovery. The patient was advised on massage and ongoing post-operative care, with continued improvement expected as healing progresses.
Why Choose McRae Plastic Surgery for Gynecomastia Surgery?
Choosing gynecomastia surgery is a personal decision that requires trust, experience, and clear communication. At McRae Plastic Surgery, care is intentionally structured around surgeon involvement, thoughtful planning, and continuity from consultation through recovery.
As a boutique practice, patients are not passed between providers. Your consultation, surgery, and follow-up care are personally managed by your operating surgeon, allowing for consistency, accountability, and individualized decision-making at every stage.
Our approach to gynecomastia surgery emphasizes:
- Careful assessment of chest anatomy and skin quality
- Technique selection based on anatomy rather than routine
- Natural-appearing, masculine chest contours
- Clear guidance throughout recovery
This measured, surgeon-led approach allows patients to make informed decisions and proceed with confidence.
What to Expect: The Gynecomastia Surgery Process
Gynecomastia surgery is a carefully planned procedure tailored to each patient. Below is a general overview of what to expect from consultation through recovery.
Consultation and Surgical Planning
Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with your surgeon. Your chest anatomy, skin quality, and goals are assessed, and the most appropriate surgical approach is discussed. This is also an opportunity to review risks, recovery, and expected outcomes.
Preoperative Preparation
Prior to surgery, routine preoperative assessments are completed to ensure safety. These may include blood work and a physical examination. Additional testing is ordered only when clinically indicated.
Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. The specific technique used, such as liposuction, gland excision, skin excision, or a combination, is based on your individual anatomy. Incisions are placed carefully to minimize visible scarring.
Recovery and Follow-Up
After surgery, you are monitored before returning home the same day. Recovery involves rest, wearing a compression garment, and gradual return to activity. Follow-up visits with your surgeon allow for close monitoring of healing and ongoing guidance throughout recovery.
Risks and Considerations of Gynecomastia Surgery
All surgical procedures carry potential risks. A thorough consultation and careful surgical planning are essential to minimize complications and set appropriate expectations. Gynecomastia surgery is generally well tolerated when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, but it is important for patients to understand the considerations involved.
Common risks and considerations include:
- Scarring: Incisions are placed as discreetly as possible and typically heal well over time. While most scars fade significantly, the appearance of scars can vary based on individual healing, skin quality, and the surgical technique required.
- Fluid Collection (Seroma) and Infection: Fluid accumulation and infection are recognized risks of surgery. Closed suction drains may be used to reduce the risk of fluid collection, support proper wound healing, and lower the likelihood of infection. Drains are temporary and are removed once healing progresses and output decreases.
- Swelling and Bruising: Temporary swelling, bruising, and firmness are expected during the early recovery period. These changes gradually improve as healing progresses and do not reflect the final surgical outcome.
- Contour Irregularities or Asymmetry: Minor contour differences or asymmetry can occur, particularly in the early stages of healing. Careful surgical technique and follow-up monitoring help optimize chest contour as swelling resolves.
- Changes in Sensation: Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the chest or nipple–areolar region may occur. Sensation typically improves over time, though permanent changes are possible in a small number of cases.
A detailed consultation allows for individualized discussion of risks, drain care, and post-operative management to ensure safe recovery and optimal results.
How to Prepare for Gynecomastia Surgery
Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth surgical experience and supports optimal healing. Specific instructions are provided during your consultation, but the general preparation timeline is outlined below.
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In the Weeks Leading Up to Surgery
You will have a consultation to review your goals, medical history, and surgical plan. General health optimization is encouraged, including maintaining a stable weight, eating well, and staying hydrated. Smoking and nicotine use must be avoided, as they will impair healing. -
In the Days Before Surgery
You’ll receive clear preoperative instructions regarding fasting, medications, and arrival details. It’s helpful to prepare a comfortable recovery area at home, arrange transportation, and have any prescribed medications and compression garments ready in advance. -
The Day Before Surgery
Follow fasting instructions carefully and ensure you are well rested. A final review of logistics helps the day run smoothly. -
The Day of Surgery
Arrive at the surgical facility as instructed, wearing comfortable clothing. The surgical team will review the plan with you and answer any last-minute questions before surgery.
Aftercare and Recovery Following Gynecomastia Surgery
Recovery after gynecomastia surgery is a gradual process and varies based on the surgical technique used, individual healing, and adherence to post-operative instructions. Below is a general timeline outlining what most patients can expect.
The First Week
Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common during the initial recovery period. Rest is encouraged, and strenuous activity should be avoided.
If closed suction drains are placed, they are typically removed within the first week after surgery once output decreases appropriately.
Most patients are able to return to desk or non-physical work within about one week
Weeks 2–3
Swelling continues to improve, and comfort increases. Light daily activities can be resumed gradually.
During this phase:
- Compression garments or binders are worn continuously, typically for a total of 4–8 weeks, depending on healing and surgical technique
- Light massage may be initiated around 3 weeks after surgery, usually for about 10 minutes per day, as instructed
- Light activity (such as walking) is generally well tolerated
- Heavy lifting and gym workouts should still be avoided
Weeks 4–8
As healing progresses, activity levels can increase.
Most patients are able to:
- Resume gym activity, including chest-focused exercises, around 4–8 weeks, once cleared
- Discontinue compression garments as advised
3–6 Months
The chest contour continues to refine as residual swelling resolves and scars mature.
At this stage:
- Final chest contour becomes apparent
- Scars continue to soften and fade over time
Most patients have returned to all normal activities without restriction
Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, address concerns, and provide guidance throughout recovery.
Can Gynecomastia Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Yes. Gynecomastia surgery is commonly combined with other body contouring procedures when doing so improves overall balance, efficiency, and recovery. Combination surgery is most appropriate when planned carefully based on anatomy, surgical time, and patient health.
At McRae Plastic Surgery, gynecomastia correction is frequently performed alongside other contouring procedures, particularly in patients who have experienced significant weight loss.
Gynecomastia Surgery Combined With Abdominoplasty
The most common combination at our practice is gynecomastia surgery with abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). This approach is often beneficial for patients with excess skin and soft tissue involving both the chest and abdomen following weight loss.
Addressing the chest and abdominal contour in a single operation can:
- Improve overall torso proportion
- Reduce the need for multiple recovery periods
- Create a more cohesive and natural body contour
Careful surgical planning ensures that combining procedures is done safely and appropriately.
Gynecomastia Surgery Combined With Liposuction
Gynecomastia correction may also be combined with liposuction of other areas of localized adiposity, such as the flanks, abdomen, or waist. This is particularly helpful when excess fat in surrounding areas affects overall chest and torso definition.
Liposuction is used selectively to refine contour and enhance balance, rather than as a routine addition.
Individualized Surgical Planning
Not all patients are candidates for combination surgery. Decisions are based on overall health, anatomy, operative time, and recovery considerations. These options are discussed in detail during consultation to determine the safest and most effective approach.
Pseudogynecomastia Surgery in Toronto
Make your breasts firmer and more masculine with our professional pseudogynecomastia surgery. Our experienced surgeons effectively remove excess breast fat, which will help you gain confidence. Pseudogynecomastia is characterized by excess fatty tissue in the chest but without the typical involvement of glandular tissue. Pseudogynecomastia surgery, usually involving liposuction, removes excess fat to improve breast contour.
This surgery effectively reduces fat accumulation in the breasts, resulting in flatter and firmer breasts. Fat cell removal is permanent and provides long-lasting results, and maintaining a stable weight can ensure that the improved breast contour remains intact. Reducing excess fat can improve comfort, especially during physical activity, which allows men to engage in sports or exercise more freely without discomfort.
Candidates for pseudogynecomastia surgery are usually men who have an accumulation of excess fatty tissue in the chest area that does not go away with diet or exercise, who want to improve their body contour, and who are weight-stable, particularly when skin elasticity is strong and can adapt more easily to the new breast contour.
Gynecomastia Gland Removal Surgery in Toronto
Achieve a more masculine chest profile with our expert gynecomastia gland removal surgery. This precise procedure targets and removes excess glandular tissue, delivering a flatter, firmer look.
Gynecomastia gland removal surgery removes excess glandular tissue that contributes to breast enlargement in men. This condition can affect one or both breasts and is characterized by the presence of hard glandular tissue under the nipple area.
Why you might consider gynecomastia gland removal:
Improved Appearance: Removal of glandular tissue results in flatter, more defined breasts, significantly improving a man’s physique and enhancing body contours that cannot be achieved through diet and exercise.
Increased Comfort: Excess breast tissue can limit physical activity and cause discomfort, especially when the breasts are exposed. Removing this tissue allows for greater comfort.
Targeted Treatment: Unlike liposuction, which only removes fatty tissue, glandular removal targets the source of the problem, offering a more permanent, long-term solution.
Who may be a candidate:
Men whose breasts are enlarged due to excess glandular tissue
Those with stiff, fibrous tissue around the nipple region that is unresponsive to medication, diet, or exercise
Men experiencing physical pain or discomfort due to breast size or weight
Those who feel emotional stress or social embarrassment related to chest appearance
Gynecomastia Surgery Cost in Toronto & Burlington
At McRae Plastic Surgery, the cost of gynecomastia surgery starts at $9,500 CAD. Final pricing depends on the surgical approach required and the overall complexity of the case.
More extensive procedures, such as gynecomastia surgery requiring skin excision or free nipple grafting, typically start at $10,500 CAD, reflecting the additional surgical time and reconstructive complexity involved.
Your surgical quote is comprehensive and generally includes:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anesthesia services
- Accredited surgical facility fees
- Routine post-operative follow-up care
Because gynecomastia surgery is highly individualized, an in-person consultation is required to determine the most appropriate surgical plan and provide an accurate cost estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gynecomastia surgery painful?
Most patients describe discomfort rather than significant pain. Soreness, tightness, and swelling are common in the first several days and are typically well managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Discomfort improves steadily as healing progresses.
How long is the recovery after gynecomastia surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the surgical technique used. Most patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within the first week. Swelling continues to improve over several weeks, with final chest contour becoming apparent over 3–6 months as healing and scar maturation continue.
When can I return to work and exercise?
- Desk or non-physical work: ~1 week
- Light activity: 2–3 weeks
- Gym and chest workouts: typically 4–8 weeks, once cleared
Timelines may vary based on the extent of surgery and individual healing.
Will I need drains after gynecomastia surgery?
Are the results of gynecomastia surgery permanent?
Removal of glandular tissue is permanent. As long as significant hormonal changes, medication effects, or major weight fluctuations do not occur, results are generally long-lasting. This is reviewed in detail during consultation.
Will there be visible scarring?
Incisions are placed as discreetly as possible and usually heal well over time. While all surgery results in some scarring, scars typically fade and become less noticeable. The extent and location of scarring depend on the surgical technique required and individual healing.
McRae Plastic Surgery Locations
Address: 30 Bond Street, Martin Family Center, B1 (Ground Level), Donnelly Wing
Toronto, ON M5B 1W8
Office Phone Hours for General Patient Inquiries:
- Monday-Friday: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm
- Phone: 416-360-4000 ext. 5830
Cosmetic Surgery Phone Hours for Toronto Location:
- Monday-Thursday: 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Phone: 416-638-3499
Burlington Location (Cosmetic Surgery):
Address: 4300 Upper Middle Road Unit 2
Burlington Ontario Canada.
L7M4P6
Clinic Office Hours:
- Friday: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Cosmetic Surgery Phone Hours:
- Phone: 416-638-3499
- Monday-Thursday: 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm