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	Expert approach to aesthetic enhancement, renowned for male breast reduction, personalized and comprehensive care, bilingual support for international patients	Combines glandular tissue removal, liposuction, Velody II lifting, partial areola incision for minimal scarring
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	World-class body sculpting, attracts VIPs and celebrities, boutique approach for personalized care	Advanced 5D sculpting (high-definition liposuction), pioneered by Dr. An Kyung Chun, minimally invasive with minimal scarring
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	State-of-the-art facility, comprehensive care from consultation to post-operative stages, renowned team of surgeons and medical researchers	Gynecomastia surgery by Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, personalized treatment plans, focus on safety and efficacy

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the vibrant district of Gangnam, Seoul, is renowned for its expert approach to aesthetic enhancement, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking male breast reduction in Korea. Under the leadership of acclaimed Dr. Lee Hyungmin, recognized among Korea's top 100 doctors, the clinic offers personalized and comprehensive care, emphasizing revolutionary techniques and advanced technology. With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Lee provides each patient with attentive, bespoke service, ensuring optimal outcomes.

• Specialized Care for Male Patients:

  • Dedicated male staff support ensures privacy and comfort during consultations and procedures.
  • A comprehensive approach integrates glandular tissue removal, liposuction, and Velody II lifting for optimal results.

• Minimize Scarring and Sagging:

  • Partial areola incision is used to minimize visible scarring.
  • Performs liposuction and Velody II lifting without additional incisions to prevent sagging while reducing scars.

• The Seojin Advantage:

  • Expertise: The clinic's experience guarantees safe fat extraction with minimal tissue damage.
  • Comprehensive Care: Patients receive support from initial consultation through recovery.
  • Advanced Scar Management: Focus on semi-permanent scar concealment caters to scarring concerns.

• International Patients:

  • Bilingual support and personalized treatment plans through comprehensive online consultations provide a seamless experience.

• More Than a Procedure:

  • Beyond physical changes, the clinic helps restore confidence and facilitate a life free of self-consciousness.

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as a leader in male breast reduction, combining cutting-edge techniques with a deeply personalized approach to genuinely transform lives.

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

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Plastic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic, nestled in the prestigious Cheongdam area of Gangnam, Seoul, is renowned as the premier destination in Korea for male breast reduction, also known as gynecomastia surgery. This clinic stands out for its world-class body sculpting procedures, spearheaded by the exceptional skills of Dr. An Kyung Chun. With over 20 years of specialized expertise, Dr. An is acclaimed globally, attracting a clientele that includes VIPs and celebrities. The clinic's boutique approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care, reflective of their commitment to excellence in cosmetic results. Central to Lydian Clinic's innovation is the advanced 5D sculpting, or high-definition liposuction, a technique pioneered by Dr. An himself. This cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure effectively removes fat deposits while minimizing scarring and eradicating the need for hospitalization. Such techniques highlight the clinic's dedication to modern, effective solutions with superior aesthetic outcomes. Dr. An's extensive international experience and clinical professorship underscore a profound knowledge catering to a variety of cosmetic enhancements, making Lydian Clinic an unmatched choice for those seeking transformative procedures.

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

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Situated in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic represents the pinnacle of excellence in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. The clinic's state-of-the-art facility spans four floors, offering a comprehensive suite of services that cover everything from initial consultations to surgery and post-operative care, with a keen focus on patient satisfaction and safety. The clinic is staffed by a team of highly acclaimed surgeons who double as medical researchers, contributing extensively to respected journals and books worldwide. Their regular participation in both local and international medical symposiums underscores their commitment to adopting the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery, thus ensuring patients receive cutting-edge care.

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic is renowned for a variety of specialized procedures, including the increasingly sought-after treatment known as gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction. This particular procedure is conducted by eminent figures in the field, such as Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, who are celebrated for their exceptional skills and dedication to patient care. Leveraging their vast experience and continuously updated knowledge, the surgeons at THE PLUS deliver personalized treatment plans that not only address the aesthetic goals of their patients but also prioritize safety and efficacy. Such dedication has earned THE PLUS a stellar reputation internationally, making it a preferred destination for individuals seeking expert solutions to cosmetic concerns, including the removal of male breast tissue.

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	$5500

Exchange rate as of 2024-12-19: 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.