Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery is a specialized procedure that reduces excess male breast tissue and restores a flatter, more masculine chest contour. ⁽¹⁾ This condition can affect men across a wide range of ages, body types, and fitness levels, often developing due to hormonal changes, genetics, medication use, or weight fluctuations. ⁽²⁾ Even men who maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise regularly may struggle to improve their chest when excess glandular tissue is present. For those individuals, gynecomastia surgery offers an effective and lasting solution.

Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, Dr. Daniel Murariu offers gynecomastia surgery to help men achieve their ideal physique. Dr. Murariu is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for his meticulous technique, anatomical precision, and individualized treatment planning. Men who pursue gynecomastia surgery with Dr. Murariu receive care that accounts for their anatomy, chest composition, and aesthetic goals, with a strong emphasis on natural-looking results and long-term balance.

To begin your journey to the sculpted chest you have been looking for, contact Dr. Murariu online or call the office directly at (808) 302-7188 to schedule a personal consultation.

About Gynecomastia Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery is a procedure that removes excess glandular tissue, fatty tissue, or a combination of both from the male chest. In recent years, an increasing number of men have begun to pursue this treatment, as gynecomastia has become more and more common. ⁽³⁾ In addition to appearance frustrations, many patients experience physical discomfort, nipple sensitivity, irritation during exercise, and emotional distress related to chest appearance. These concerns can influence clothing choices, social behavior, and overall confidence.

A key component of successful gynecomastia treatment is accurate diagnosis. Dr. Murariu carefully evaluates whether chest enlargement stems from fat, dense glandular tissue, skin laxity, or a combination of factors. This distinction determines whether liposuction alone is appropriate or whether direct excision of glandular tissue is necessary. Attempting to treat glandular gynecomastia with liposuction alone can lead to incomplete correction, which is why individualized planning plays such a critical role.

The objective of gynecomastia surgery is not simply reduction. Dr. Murariu focuses on restoring chest proportion and definition that aligns with the patient’s overall physique. He carefully considers chest width, muscle development, skin quality, and nipple position during surgical planning. This approach supports outcomes that appear athletic and natural rather than flat or overcorrected.

Causes and Evaluation of Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia can develop at different stages of life and for a variety of reasons. Hormonal imbalance between estrogen and testosterone is one of the most common contributors. Certain medications, supplements, and medical conditions may also influence breast tissue growth. Weight gain can increase fatty tissue in the chest, while genetics may predispose some men to glandular enlargement regardless of fitness level.

During the consultation process, Dr. Murariu conducts a thorough medical review and physical examination. This evaluation allows him to distinguish between fatty chest fullness (pseudogynecomastia) and true gynecomastia caused by glandular tissue. Understanding the underlying cause helps determine the most effective surgical strategy and sets realistic expectations for outcomes.

Benefits

Gynecomastia surgery offers several transformative benefits, including:

For many men, the psychological benefits are just as important as the physical changes. Patients often describe a sense of relief and renewed confidence after addressing a concern that may have affected them for years.

Ideal Candidates

Gynecomastia surgery is beneficial for men who experience persistent chest fullness that does not improve with diet or exercise. Ideal candidates often include:

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation with Dr. Murariu establishes the foundation for a successful gynecomastia surgery experience. During this visit, he reviews medical history, discusses symptoms and aesthetic concerns, and performs a detailed examination of the chest. This allows him to determine tissue composition and recommend the most effective surgical approach.

Patients also receive a clear explanation of the procedure, incision placement, anesthesia considerations, recovery expectations, and potential risks. This collaborative discussion ensures that patients feel informed and confident before proceeding. Dr. Murariu will use all the information collected in this meeting to create a personal treatment plan that supports balanced, natural-looking results.

To schedule a consultation, patients can contact the practice online or call (808) 302-7188.

Preparation

Preparation for gynecomastia surgery involves following the detailed preoperative instructions. These guidelines may include medication adjustments, avoiding alcohol and nicotine, completing preoperative testing, and planning time away from strenuous activities. Proper preparation supports surgical safety and smoother healing.

Patients should also arrange transportation and postoperative support, particularly during the initial recovery period. Thoughtful preparation allows patients to focus on healing rather than logistics.

Procedure

Patients undergo gynecomastia surgery under IV sedation or local numbing in our procedure room. The surgical technique that Dr. Murariu employs depends on the type and amount of excess tissue present. When fatty tissue contributes to chest fullness, he may use liposuction to contour the chest through small, discreet incisions. This technique allows precise sculpting while minimizing visible scarring.

When firm glandular tissue is present beneath the areola, Dr. Murariu performs direct excision through an incision along the natural border of the nipple. In many cases, a combined approach using both liposuction and excision provides the most refined and balanced result. In severe cases, excision of skin, breast tissue and nipple areola grafting may be necessary. Throughout the procedure, Dr. Murariu focuses on symmetry, smooth transitions, and preservation of a masculine chest shape. Following surgery, he will apply a compression garment to reduce swelling and support tissue adaptation. Most patients return home the same day.

Recovery

Recovery after gynecomastia surgery varies based on the extent of tissue removal and individual healing response. Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the chest area. These effects gradually improve as healing progresses. Light daily activities often resume within several days, while more strenuous exercise and upper body training typically resume after several weeks. Dr. Murariu provides detailed postoperative instructions and monitors healing through follow-up visits to ensure optimal progress.

Help

Gynecomastia surgery results become increasingly visible as swelling resolves and the chest settles into its new contour. Over time, the chest appears flatter, firmer, and more proportionate to the rest of the body. Clothing often fits more comfortably, and many men feel more confident in social and athletic environments. With stable weight and healthy habits, results tend to be long-lasting. Dr. Murariu’s emphasis on proportion and contouring supports outcomes that age naturally with the body.

Corresponding and Combination Procedures

Dr. Murariu may enhance patient outcomes by combining gynecomastia surgery with other procedures, such as:

Male Liposuction

Liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, or other areas can improve overall body proportions and complement chest contouring for a more athletic appearance.

Penile Enhancement

Dr. Murariu offers penile enhancement procedures for men seeking improvement in length, girth, or overall appearance. Dr. Murariu tailors these treatments to patient goals and performs them with careful attention to proportion, safety, and natural-looking outcomes.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Dr. Murariu also offers nonsurgical aesthetic treatments, including injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers, as well as laser skin treatments and chemical peels. These options allow patients to address facial aging and skin quality concerns without surgery.

Cost of Gynecomastia Surgery in Honolulu

The cost of gynecomastia surgery depends on the surgical approach, extent of tissue removal, anesthesia, and facility fees. Dr. Murariu reviews all pricing details during the consultation process so patients can plan accordingly.

Schedule a consultation today to explore the cost of your gynecomastia surgery. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Honolulu office directly at (808) 302-7188.

FAQ

References

1. Holzmer SW, Lewis PG, Landau MJ, Hill ME. Surgical Management of Gynecomastia. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2020;8(10):e3161. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000003161
2. Vandeven HA, Pensler JM. Gynecomastia. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430812/
3. Knoedler L, Knoedler S, Alfertshofer M, et al. Gynecomastia Surgery in 4996 Male Patients Over 14 Years: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Trends, Predictive Risk Factors, and Short-Term Outcomes. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Published online March 25, 2024. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-024-03927-0