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

Have you ever felt embarrassed or self-conscious about enlarged breasts as a man? You're not alone. Gynecomastia, a common condition affecting men worldwide, has led to a growing interest in male breast reduction surgeries in South Korea, renowned for its expertise and innovative techniques in cosmetic 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
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	Located in Cheongdam, Gangnam, VIP and celebrity clientele, personalized attention	5D sculpting, high-definition liposuction
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Premier destination for male breast reduction, dedicated male staff, bilingual support	Glandular tissue removal, liposuction, Velody II lifting, partial areola incision
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, comprehensive care, global recognition	Expertise in breast surgery, innovative techniques, personalized communication

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic, located in the prestigious Cheongdam area of Gangnam, Seoul, is a leading destination for those seeking to address male breast reduction, commonly known as gynecomastia surgery. The clinic is renowned for its world-class liposuction and body sculpting procedures, spearheaded by the esteemed Dr. An Kyung Chun. With over 20 years of specialized experience in body sculpting, Dr. An is recognized globally for his expertise, attracting a clientele that includes VIPs and celebrities. The clinic's boutique approach ensures that each patient receives personalized attention, with a singular focus on achieving exceptional cosmetic outcomes.

At Lydian Clinic, innovative techniques such as 5D sculpting, or high-definition liposuction, are employed to effectively address gynecomastia. This advanced procedure, developed by Dr. An, is celebrated for its ability to remove significant fat deposits with minimal scarring and no need for hospitalization. The clinic's commitment to cutting-edge, minimally invasive techniques ensures that patients can undergo transformative procedures with confidence. Dr. An's extensive international experience and role as a clinical professor further enhance the clinic's reputation, making it a top choice for those seeking to refine their appearance through male breast reduction and other cosmetic enhancements.

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

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic in Korea stands out as the premier destination for male breast reduction, offering specialized care tailored specifically for male patients. The clinic's commitment to comfort and privacy is evident through its dedicated male staff, ensuring a supportive environment during consultations and procedures. Seojin Clinic employs a comprehensive approach that combines glandular tissue removal, liposuction, and Velody II lifting, all designed to achieve optimal results with minimal scarring. Unlike traditional methods that often leave noticeable scars, Seojin's technique involves a partial areola incision, significantly reducing visible scarring and preventing sagging without additional incisions. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Lee Hyungmin, recognized as one of the 100 Good Doctors in Korea, patients receive personalized, end-to-end care, ensuring a highly attentive experience. With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Lee's expertise guarantees safe and effective procedures. The clinic also extends its exceptional care to international patients, offering bilingual support and personalized treatment plans through comprehensive online consultations. At Seojin Clinic, gynecomastia surgery is more than a physical transformation; it's about restoring confidence and enabling patients to live without self-consciousness. Located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Seojin Clinic combines advanced technology with a compassionate approach, making it the ideal choice for those seeking to enhance their natural beauty and confidence.

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

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of cosmetic surgery. Renowned for its comprehensive approach to patient care, the clinic offers a full suite of services across its four floors, from initial consultations to surgery and post-operative care. The clinic's team of surgeons are not only skilled practitioners but also respected researchers, contributing to medical literature and participating in global symposiums. This commitment to innovation and patient-centered care ensures that THE PLUS remains at the forefront of the plastic surgery field.

Why THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is the best clinic for removing male breasts in Korea:

• Expertise in Breast Surgery: Dr. Lee, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation, brings extensive experience from top hospitals, including Seoul National University Hospital, ensuring natural and lasting results.
• Renowned Surgeons: The clinic's surgeons, including Dr. Kim and Dr. Jeong, are internationally recognized for their expertise and contributions to the field, ensuring high standards of care.
• Comprehensive Care: From consultation to post-operative care, the clinic provides a seamless experience, prioritizing patient safety and satisfaction.
• Innovative Techniques: The clinic's surgeons are involved in cutting-edge research and regularly update their practices with the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery.
• Global Recognition: Participation in international medical symposiums and contributions to scholarly journals highlight the clinic's commitment to excellence and innovation.
• Patient-Centered Philosophy: The clinic emphasizes personalized communication and care, ensuring that each patient's unique needs and goals are met with precision and empathy.

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	$2800
High Price	₩8,000,000	$5600

Exchange rate as of 2025-04-24: 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.