Ensuring Safety in Gynaecomastia Surgery at a ‘Stand-alone Aesthetic Surgery Day-case Centre’ in the United Kingdom: A New Component-based Classification and Practical Management Tips for Anabolic Androgenic Steroid (AAS)-induced Gynaecomastia

Aim and Objectives: The primary aim of this article is to evaluate the feasibility and safety of performing gynaecomastia surgery in a stand-alone day-case clinic. We examined existing gynaecomastia classification systems, comparing them with a novel component-based approach, and assessing outcomes in patients, including those presenting with anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS)-induced gynaecomastia. Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly reduced elective procedures in corporate hospitals, prompting many patients to seek treatment in alternative settings. As interests in aesthetic surgery procedures increased during this time, stand-alone clinics emerged as having the potential for day-case gynaecomastia correction. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted in a single stand-alone aesthetic clinic, focusing on 74 patients who underwent gynaecomastia surgery between March 2014 and January 2025. Patients were treated based on an adapted component-based classification system that addresses skin redundancy, fat volume, gland prominence and nipple projection. Surgical techniques comprised tailored combinations of gland excision, nipple reduction, skin reduction and where necessary, liposuction. Data was collected on complication rates, patient satisfaction and cost comparisons. Results: Among patients treated, findings demonstrated low complication rates and high satisfaction scores. Individuals with AAS-induced gynaecomastia require more meticulous operative planning and follow-up. Costs were generally lower compared to corporate hospitals. Conclusion: Day-case gynaecomastia surgery in a stand-alone clinic is both feasible and safe when underpinned by rigorous preoperative protocols, precise patient selection and refined surgical techniques. The use of a tailored classification system enhances surgical planning and outcomes, especially in challenging presentations such as AAS-induced gynaecomastia. This approach highlights the potential for ‘stand-alone’ aesthetic centres to deliver high quality, patient-centred care without compromising safety or efficacy.