​While a fuller chest is often preferred by women, it is not the case for men.

Koo Hyun-guk, director of DA Plastic Surgery Clinic and a lifetime member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, explained, “Men with gynecomastia—characterized by a sagging, feminine-looking chest that differs from others—often experience embarrassment. This leads them to hide their bodies and can significantly lower their self-confidence.”

◆ What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition in which a man’s chest enlarges like a woman’s due to the accumulation of glandular breast tissue.

According to Dr. Koo, “It can be classified into pseudogynecomastia and true gynecomastia. Mild cases may improve with lifestyle changes, but surgery may be necessary if symptoms cause discomfort.”

◆ Types of Gynecomastia

▲ Pseudogynecomastia

Pseudogynecomastia occurs when the chest enlargement is primarily due to fat.

It is caused by excessive fat accumulation from weight gain and can often be improved through diet control and weight loss.

Dr. Koo added, “If fat accumulation is severe and causes the chest to sag, liposuction may be performed.”

▲ True Gynecomastia

In contrast, true gynecomastia is caused by excessive growth of glandular tissue due to hormonal imbalances or side effects of certain medications.

Dr. Koo explained, “After diagnosing the degree of glandular development, if the condition is severe, patients may experience swelling, firmness, palpable lumps, and even pain. In such cases, removal of the glandular tissue is necessary.”

▲ Customized Approach After Examination

In some cases, both chest liposuction and glandular tissue removal may be performed together.

Since the type, cause, and severity of gynecomastia vary from person to person, it is important to undergo proper examination before deciding on surgery.

◆ Considerations for Male Gynecomastia

Dr. Koo noted, “Depending on the stage, gynecomastia in men may be covered by national health insurance or private insurance. Mild cases—such as slight protrusion of the nipple and areola—may not qualify. However, if the areola and chest skin protrude, or if the overall chest size resembles that of an adult female, especially with sagging, insurance coverage may be possible after diagnosis.”

Above all, diagnosis and surgical decisions should be made through collaborative consultation among specialists.

He added, “Since both the shape and contour of the chest must be preserved while improving gynecomastia symptoms, it is important to choose a clinic where specialists from different fields work together.”

“For gynecomastia surgery, the procedure time is relatively short, allowing for same-day admission and discharge. Depending on the condition, insurance coverage may also reduce out-of-pocket costs. Men concerned about gynecomastia are encouraged to visit a clinic promptly for evaluation and to determine an appropriate treatment plan.”​