What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is a condition in which male breast tissue becomes enlarged due to hormonal imbalance, most often a decrease in testosterone relative to estrogen. It may affect one or both breasts and is frequently seen in:

  • Adolescent boys during puberty
  • Middle-aged or older men due to natural hormone decline
  • Men with obesity or certain medical conditions

The condition can be emotionally and physically uncomfortable, leading many men to seek surgical correction when lifestyle changes aren’t effective.

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Who Is a Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

You may be a strong candidate for gynecomastia surgery in Orange County if you:

  • Are bothered by the size or appearance of your chest
  • Experience discomfort from excess breast tissue
  • Are in generally good health with stable weight
  • Have good skin elasticity
  • Have not seen improvement through diet or exercise

During your consultation, Dr. Kahng will perform a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan for your specific case.

Common Causes of Enlarged Male Breasts

Several factors can contribute to the development of gynecomastia, including:

Hormonal Fluctuations

Testosterone and estrogen regulate male and female traits. An imbalance—especially a drop in testosterone—can cause glandular breast tissue to grow. This may happen during puberty, with age, or as a result of certain conditions.

Medications

Some medications, such as anti-androgens, anabolic steroids, and certain antidepressants or heart medications, can lead to hormonal imbalances and breast enlargement.

Health Conditions

Gynecomastia can also be associated with underlying health issues such as:

  • Hypogonadism
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Liver dysfunction
  • Kidney failure
  • Obesity

Understanding the root cause is a crucial part of creating an effective treatment plan.

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How Male Breast Reduction Surgery Works

Male breast reduction is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of your case. The surgical approach may involve:

Liposuction

For patients whose gynecomastia is primarily caused by fatty tissue, liposuction is often sufficient. A thin cannula is used to gently remove excess fat from the chest through small, discreet incisions.

Excision

When glandular tissue or excess skin must be removed, excision techniques are used. The most common incision is made along the lower half of the areola, where it can be easily concealed in the natural pigment of the skin.

In some cases, a combination of liposuction and excision delivers the best result. Dr. Kahng uses modern, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to minimize scarring and recovery time.

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What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery after male breast reduction is generally straightforward. Most patients experience mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tightness in the chest for several days. You may need to wear a compression garment to support healing and maintain your new contour.

Activity is limited for the first week, and heavy lifting or chest exercises should be avoided for several weeks. Most men return to work within a few days and resume full physical activity within four to six weeks.

Results and Benefits

Male breast reduction in Orange County with Dr. Kahng can dramatically improve the shape and appearance of the chest. Benefits include:

  • A firmer, flatter, more masculine chest contour
  • Relief from physical discomfort and skin irritation
  • Improved self-confidence and comfort in fitted clothing
  • Greater ease in exercise and athletic activity

Results are long-lasting, especially when paired with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

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Why Choose Cara Plastic Surgery for Male Breast Reduction in Orange County?

Dr. David Kahng is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing gynecomastia surgery. Known for his careful technique and artistic eye, Dr. Kahng creates natural-looking results that align with each patient’s anatomy and goals.

Cara Plastic Surgery’s Orange County location is equipped with advanced surgical technology and provides a welcoming, discreet environment for men seeking to improve their appearance through plastic surgery.

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