Choosing a gynecomastia surgeon in Ireland

Check the register

Every doctor practising in Ireland must be registered with the Medical Council, and only a doctor with specialist registration can practise independently as a specialist. For gynaecomastia surgery, check that the surgeon is on the Specialist Division of the Medical Council's online register: usually in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, or a general surgeon who specialises in breast surgery. The register is free to search online by name. A cosmetic doctor without specialist registration in surgery shouldn't be doing this operation.

At the consultation

The surgeon should examine your chest, feel for gland and fat, ask how long it's been there, about medicines, supplements, alcohol and any steroids, and whether a GP has checked the cause. One side only, or a hard lump, should mean a scan or a GP's check before any plan.

Questions to ask

• How many of these operations do you do a year?
• Is it liposuction, excision or both for me, and why?
• Local or general anaesthetic, and where will it be done?
• Do you send the removed tissue to a lab?
• Can I see your own before and after photos of men with a chest like mine?
• What's in the price: the vest, check-ups, any revision?
• Who do I ring at night if something worries me?

Warning signs

• A price given before anyone has examined you
• A deposit wanted on the day
• Liposuction alone offered for a firm, puffy nipple without an examination
• You never meet the surgeon who will operate
• Promises of a perfect or guaranteed result

Second opinions

A second consultation costs €195 to €300 and is worth it if the plans differ or you feel rushed. Nobody needs urgent gynaecomastia surgery. If a clinic pushes you to book or pay a deposit on the day, walk away and take your time.

Questions people ask

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