Why is Gynecomastia Surgery Performed?
- Aesthetic Reasons
The most common reason for seeking gynecomastia surgery is to improve the aesthetic appearance of the chest. Many men with gynecomastia feel self-conscious about the size or appearance of their breasts, especially when wearing tight clothing or going shirtless. The procedure helps restore a more masculine, defined chest shape. - Physical Discomfort
In some cases, enlarged male breasts can cause physical discomfort, including pain, tenderness, or sensitivity. Gynecomastia surgery can help alleviate these symptoms by removing the excess tissue. - Psychological Benefits
Gynecomastia can have a significant psychological impact, affecting self-esteem and confidence. Male breast reduction surgery often leads to an improvement in body image and overall well-being. - Weight Loss and Hormonal Imbalances
Men who have lost significant weight or those with hormonal imbalances may develop gynecomastia. Surgery can remove the excess tissue that may not be responsive to diet or exercise, providing a more toned and firm chest appearance.
Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery
- Improved Chest Contour: The primary benefit is a flatter, firmer, and more defined chest shape, which enhances overall body proportions.
- Increased Self-Confidence: Many patients report a significant improvement in self-esteem after surgery, feeling more comfortable and confident in their appearance.
- Permanent Results: Once the excess tissue is removed, the results are permanent, providing long-lasting changes to the chest.
- Minimal Scarring: The incisions made during gynecomastia surgery are typically small and discreet, often placed in areas where they are not noticeable.
- Enhanced Comfort: The procedure can eliminate the discomfort associated with enlarged male breasts, particularly when wearing certain clothing or during physical activity.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the surgery. The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Key Steps of the Gynecomastia Surgery Procedure:
- Consultation & Planning
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss your aesthetic goals and evaluate your chest. They will assess the amount of excess tissue and the type of gynecomastia (glandular or fatty) to determine the best approach for surgery. - Incision Placement
The surgeon will make small incisions to remove the excess tissue. In cases where there is more fatty tissue than glandular tissue, liposuction may be used to remove the fat. For more extensive cases with glandular tissue, the surgeon may make a slightly larger incision around the areola or along the chest fold to remove the tissue. - Fat and Glandular Tissue Removal
Excess fatty tissue and glandular tissue are removed to reduce the size of the male breast. Liposuction may also be used to smooth and contour the chest, ensuring an even and natural appearance. - Closure & Dressing
Once the tissue is removed, the incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a compression garment is applied to support the chest and reduce swelling. The compression garment will help the skin tighten around the newly contoured chest.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery from gynecomastia surgery is relatively quick, but it is important to follow the surgeon's instructions to ensure optimal healing. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery process:
- Recovery Time: Most patients can return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks, although strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Swelling and Bruising: Mild swelling and bruising around the chest are common but should subside within 1 to 2 weeks. Full results can take several months to become apparent as the swelling fully resolves.
- Post-Surgery Care: You will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to reduce swelling and help the skin conform to the new chest shape. Avoid putting pressure on the chest area during the initial healing phase.
- Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor your recovery, remove stitches, and assess the results of the surgery.
- Final Results: The final results of gynecomastia surgery will become visible after 3 to 6 months once the swelling has fully gone down and the chest settles into its new shape.
Cost of Gynecomastia Surgery in Korea
The cost of gynecomastia surgery in Korea varies depending on the surgeon’s experience, the technique used, and the clinic’s location. On average, the cost for gynecomastia surgery ranges from:
- Gynecomastia Surgery: ₩3,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 KRW (Approx. $2,400 – $5,200 USD)
- Consultation Fee: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000 KRW (Approx. $40 – $80 USD)
- Post-Surgery Care & Follow-up: Additional costs may apply depending on medications, post-surgical garments, and follow-up visits.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified surgeon to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and the amount of tissue to be removed.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you're considering gynecomastia surgery in Seoul, our experienced surgeons are here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your goals and start your journey to a more defined, confident chest.