Table of contents

• Prevalence of Male Breast in Men
• Understanding Male Breasts: Causes and Symptoms
• Best Gynecomastia Clinics in Korea
• Gynecomastia Treatment in Korea
• Preparing for Gynecomastia Treatment
• Why Korea?
• Benefits of Male Breast Reduction Surgery
• Risks and Post-Surgery Care
• Post-Operative Care and Expected Results

Gynecomastia is a benign enlargement of the male breast tissue, which can affect one or both breasts. This condition is common among men of all ages and can sometimes cause discomfort or self-consciousness. Recent years have witnessed a rise in interest for cosmetic surgeries in South Korea, including male breast reduction procedures.

Prevalence of Male Breast in Men

Gynecomastia is not as uncommon in men as is generally presumed. It is primarily caused due to hormonal imbalance, usually triggered by elevated levels of estrogen or reduced levels of testosterone. Obesity, aging, certain medical conditions, or use of certain drugs can also contribute to gynecomastia. It's a condition that crosses cultural boundaries and can affect men worldwide, including in South Korea.

Understanding Male Breasts: Causes and Symptoms

Gynecomastia, colloquially known as man boobs or male breasts, is a common medical condition characterized by the swelling of breast tissue in boys or men. This enlargement can be observed in one or both breasts and is often the result of an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and testosterone.

Gynecomastia can affect males of any age, and is quite common during infancy and puberty due to natural hormone fluctuations. However, it can also occur in mid-life and older age, particularly in cases of obesity, cancer, liver disorder, or side-effects from medication.

Causes of Gynecomastia

There can be several causes for gynecomastia, some of the common ones include:

• Hormonal Imbalance: One of the primary causes of gynecomastia is an imbalance between the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone. Simply put, when the estrogen (female hormone) levels are too high compared to testosterone (male hormone), it can trigger the growth of breast tissue.

• Age: Hormonal changes occur naturally throughout a man's life, and these changes can lead to gynecomastia, especially during puberty or old age.

• Obesity: Overweight and obese men are more likely to develop gynecomastia due to increased estrogen production.

• Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can lead to gynecomastia. Some examples include anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, and medications for heart disease and AIDS.

• Health Conditions: Conditions like hypogonadism, tumors, kidney failure, or liver disease can lead to gynecomastia.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia

In addition to enlarged breasts, symptoms may also include breast pain and tenderness. It's important to note that gynecomastia is different from pseudo-gynecomastia, a condition that results from fat accumulation in the chest area. True gynecomastia is actually an increase in glandular tissue, not fatty tissue.

Also, any new, unexplained growth in the chest requires a consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out breast cancer, a rare but possible condition in men. Professional medical advice is necessary to understand and treat this condition appropriately.

Best Gynecomastia Clinics in Korea

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Specialized care for male patients, comfort and privacy, over 16 years of experience, tailored care for international patients	Glandular tissue removal, liposuction, Velody II lifting, minimal scarring with partial areola incisions
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	Located in Cheongdam, global reputation, minimal scarring, personalized care, discerning clientele including VIPs and celebrities	5D sculpting, high-definition liposuction, stem cell fat grafting, minimally invasive high-definition liposuction
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, emphasis on advanced medical expertise, research and international symposiums involvement	State-of-the-art methods for male breast reduction, precision and care in gynecomastia treatment, tailored procedures

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as a premier choice for removing male breasts, known as gynecomastia, in Korea. The clinic offers specialized care for male patients, ensuring comfort and privacy with the support of dedicated male staff during consultations and procedures. This commitment is complemented by Dr. Lee Hyungmin's personalized approach, treating each patient with utmost care throughout their journey. Dr. Lee, recognized as one of the 100 Good Doctors in Korea, employs a comprehensive technique combining glandular tissue removal, liposuction, and Velody II lifting, while prioritizing minimal scarring through partial areola incisions. With over 16 years of experience, his expertise and advanced techniques ensure safe procedures with optimal results. The clinic also provides tailored care for international patients, from comprehensive online consultations to bilingual support, ensuring a seamless and satisfying experience. By choosing Seojin Clinic, patients not only undergo a physical transformation but also regain confidence and embrace a life free from self-consciousness, making it a top destination for gynecomastia surgery in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic, prominently located in the elite Cheongdam area of Gangnam, Seoul, is a premier destination for those seeking cutting-edge solutions for cosmetic enhancements, particularly for the removal of male breasts, also known as gynecomastia surgery. Under the expert guidance of Dr. An Kyung Chun, the clinic has earned a global reputation for excellence in liposuction and body sculpting techniques. Dr. An's exceptional skills, honed over more than two decades, and his pioneering of advanced procedures like 5D sculpting or high-definition liposuction, make the clinic a beacon of innovation in cosmetic surgery. The clinic attracts a discerning clientele, including VIPs and celebrities, who trust in its dedication to providing world-class care with minimal scarring and remarkable results.

At Lydian Clinic, the focus on personalized care ensures every patient receives tailored treatment designed to fulfill their unique aesthetic goals. The boutique approach, centered around the singular expertise of Dr. An, guarantees detailed attention and an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of cosmetic outcomes. Offering a plethora of procedures ranging from liposuction and tummy tucks, to more intricate techniques like stem cell fat grafting and minimally invasive high-definition liposuction, the clinic is at the forefront of delivering transformative results. Patients seeking male breast reduction can expect an approach that emphasizes both subtlety and sophistication, ensuring a natural and symmetrical appearance. For those desiring a refined physique or an improved self-image, Lydian Clinic stands as a trusted choice, where advanced technology meets skilled artistry.

You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, is renowned for offering cutting-edge plastic surgery services in Korea. The clinic operates across four spacious floors, each dedicated to different stages of the patient journey, from the initial consultation to surgery and post-operative care. Known for its emphasis on advanced medical expertise and patient-centered care, THE PLUS is led by top surgeons including Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, who are both celebrated for their contributions to the field of cosmetic surgery, particularly rhinoplasty. The clinic’s medical team, active in research and international symposiums, consistently strive to incorporate the latest surgical innovations and techniques, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficacy for their patients.

In addition to its comprehensive suite of facial and body procedures, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery offers specialized treatments for male breast reduction, a service that addresses gynecomastia with precision and care. Utilizing their extensive experience, the clinic’s surgeons employ state-of-the-art methods to restore a more traditionally masculine chest contour, tailoring each procedure to the unique needs and goals of their patients. With a commitment to excellence and a strong emphasis on patient satisfaction, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery continues to be a trusted destination for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance through expert surgical interventions.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Gynecomastia Treatment in Korea

South Korea is known for its advanced medical technology and experienced cosmetic surgeons, making it a popular destination for men seeking gynecomastia treatment.

Surgical Gynecomastia Treatment

In cases where gynecomastia is the result of excess fat, liposuction surgery may be recommended. This involves the use of a cannula to break up and remove the excess fat.

In cases where gynecomastia is the result of excess glandular tissue, mastectomy may be recommended. This involves the surgical removal of the breast's glandular tissue.

The choice of treatment depends on the individual's case, their health status, their personal preferences, and the doctor's professional recommendation.

Non-Surgical Gynecomastia Treatment

For those hesitant about undergoing surgery, Korea also offers non-surgical options for gynecomastia treatment.

One such option is the use of compression garments, which work by flattening the chest appearance.

Another option is medication. Certain medications correct hormonal imbalances that could be causing gynecomastia.

Lastly, lifestyle modification plays a significant non-surgical role in the treatment of gynecomastia. This includes regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.

Preparing for Gynecomastia Treatment

Before seeking treatment for gynecomastia in Korea, ensure you consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Also, check your visa requirements for medical travel, plan your accommodation and recovery care, and seek testimonials or reviews on potential clinics or surgeons.

What Does the Surgery Entail?

Male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia surgery, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size that is proportionate with your body. This surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

In Korea, most hospitals offer two types of male breast reduction surgery: Liposuction and excision surgery. Liposuction involves the use of a small, thin tube that’s inserted into the breast via tiny incisions to suck out the fatty tissue. Meanwhile, excision surgery involves removing excess glandular tissue and sometimes excess skin to create a flatter, firmer chest.

Why Korea?

Korea is often referred to as the plastic surgery capital of the world, well-known for their advanced cosmetic surgery technology and skilled doctors. Korean plastic surgeons have a wealth of experience performing a wide array of procedures, and male breast reduction surgery is no exception.

Moreover, hospitals in Korea offer comprehensive and personalized care plans that start with pre-surgery consultation and extend all the way through post-operative care and recovery programs. They also tend to be more affordable compared to Western countries, attract patients from around the globe.

Benefits of Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Men who undergo breast reduction surgery in Korea can expect numerous gains - the first being a boost in their self-esteem and body image. No longer having to hide or feel shameful about their bodies, these men often reveal an increase in overall confidence levels.

Physical comfort is another huge advantage. Oversized breasts can lead to physical discomfort in the form of back, neck and shoulder pain. Shedding the extra weight relieves these physical discomforts.

Lastly, clothes often fit and look better, something that many people might not consider initially. This can make a significant difference in both personal and professional life, from feeling more comfortable at social gatherings to presenting yourself more positively at work.

Risks and Post-Surgery Care

As with any surgical procedure, male breast reduction comes with its own set of risks like infection, bleeding, and scarring. However, these risks are considerably low, especially when the surgery is performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

Post-operative care usually includes wearing a specialized garment to support your new chest contour and to minimize swelling. It is also advised to avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time following the surgery. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your surgical site, medications to apply or take orally, specific concerns to look for, and when to follow up with your surgeon.

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩4,000,000	$2700
High Price	₩8,000,000	$5500

Exchange rate as of 2025-01-18: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Post-Operative Care and Expected Results

Post-operative care is vital for speedy recovery and to achieve the best results. Patients are usually instructed to wear a special compression garment for about a month post-surgery to minimize swelling and support new chest contours. Physical activity should be limited for at least a week, while strenuous exercises and heavy lifting should be avoided for about a month.

With a proper diet and regular exercise, the results of gynecomastia surgery are long-lasting. However, it is crucial to understand that significant weight gain, steroid use, or certain medical conditions could trigger a recurrence of gynecomastia.

As per patient testimonials and clinical studies, the impact of the surgery extends beyond just physical transformation. The ability to wear fitted clothes without feeling self-conscious, improved body image, and an enhanced sense of masculinity significantly boosts confidence and overall quality of life.

Lastly, it is crucial for patients to have realistic expectations and thoroughly discuss their desired outcomes with their surgeons to ensure their satisfaction and happiness with the results.