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Male Breast Reduction in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

Gynecomastia—excess male breast tissue—can cause embarrassment, self-consciousness, and a reluctance to remove your shirt. Male breast reduction surgery offers a reliable, long-term solution by removing extra glandular or fatty tissue to reveal a firmer, flatter, more masculine chest. Many men choose this treatment to feel comfortable at the pool, in fitted clothing, and in their own skin again.
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About Male Breast Reduction

Procedure Quick Facts:

  • Duration of Procedure:
1-2 hours
  • Anesthesia:
General anesthesia
  • Recovery:
Return to work in a few days; gym in 2-3 weeks
  • Results Duration:
Permanent with stable weight

What is Male Breast Reduction?

Male breast reduction—also called gynecomastia surgery—removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and occasionally skin from the male chest. Depending on the underlying cause, the procedure may involve direct excision of dense glandular tissue, liposuction of fatty tissue, or a combination of both techniques. The incision is typically placed along the border of the areola to keep scarring discreet while allowing precise contouring. The goal is a flatter, firmer, naturally masculine chest that aligns with your physique and lifestyle.

Why Undergo Male Breast Reduction?

If you are frustrated by persistent chest fullness that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, please contact South Coast Plastic Surgery to arrange a private consultation. Dr. Kyle Song or Dr. Paige Benyamein will create a customized surgical plan to help you feel confident in and out of clothing.
  • Restored Masculine Contour
    The procedure removes glandular and fatty tissue to reveal a flatter, more athletic chest shape, helping you look as fit as you feel.
  • Improved Self-Confidence
    Many men report greater comfort in social, intimate, and athletic settings, reducing anxiety about taking off their shirt.
  • Clothing Fits Better
    Post-surgery, shirts, suits, and workout gear drape properly over the torso, eliminating unwanted bulges.
  • Permanent Results
    Once glandular tissue is removed, it will not grow back, and fat removal is long lasting when weight is stable.
  • Minimal Downtime
    Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days and to the gym in about two weeks.
  • Discreet Scarring
    Incisions are hidden along the areolar edge, and our surgeons employ meticulous closure techniques to keep scars difficult to detect.

Male Breast Reduction Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

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Key Benefits of Male Breast Reduction in Irvine, California

Sculpts a flatter, firmer chest profile
Boosts self-esteem and body confidence
Quick recovery with minimal discomfort
Discreet, nearly invisible scars
Learn why South Coast Plastic Surgery is different

Types of Male Breast Reduction

Ideal for men whose chest fullness is primarily due to excess fatty tissue. A thin cannula removes fat through tiny incisions, resulting in minimal scarring and quick recovery.

When firm glandular tissue is the main culprit, a small, areolar incision allows direct removal of the tissue for a smooth, flat contour.

Most common approach, addressing both glandular and fatty components to achieve optimal definition and symmetry.

For men with mild skin laxity, energy-based tightening may be added to encourage skin retraction without additional scars.

For significant excess skin after massive weight loss, larger incisions along the chest fold may be required to remove redundant tissue and lift the nipple.

Tailored for patients unhappy with prior surgery elsewhere, focusing on contour irregularities, residual tissue, or scarring.

Using layered quilting sutures, our surgeons often avoid drains, making recovery more comfortable and reducing follow-up visits.

Not sure which option is right for you?

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Meet your Male Breast Reduction surgeons

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, our acclaimed plastic surgeons, Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein, will perform your breast procedure. Their artistry and skill in this delicate procedure have led to a reputation for outstanding outcomes. You can expect your procedure to be 100% customized, with a focus on achieving a beautifully balanced figure and natural-looking results.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Male Breast Reduction in Irvine, California?

Beauty Inside-Out

We treat beyond the visible, caring for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every aesthetic treatment is provided with warm and exceptional care to elevate your well-being and confidence.

Unmatched Predictability

Visualize your potential results with cutting-edge Crisalix 3D imaging, ensuring clarity and confidence from the start of your cosmetic journey. Our transparent planning process covers every detail, from realistic expectations to comprehensive pricing.

Expert Healing

Your personalized care plan doesn't end when you leave the operating room. Adoreal's automated recovery prompts guide you through a personalized healing journey, including 24/7 access to your surgical team to address questions or concerns. Track your aesthetic recovery progress in real-time, receive important reminders, and experience peace of mind knowing that expert support is always available.

Protected Investment

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your aesthetic outcomes long after your final follow-up. Your care includes up to 5 years of medical complication protection, a 2-year satisfaction guarantee for minor adjustments, and lifetime implant monitoring for eligible cases. Combined with ongoing access to your complete medical records and continued support from our team, you can trust that your journey to confidence is backed by expertise, technology, and a genuine commitment to your long-term well-being.

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A Customized Approach to Breast Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

Gynecomastia affects men differently, which is why successful treatment begins with a personalized plan. At South Coast Plastic Surgery, planning focuses on identifying the underlying cause of excess chest tissue—whether fatty tissue, glandular tissue, or a combination of both—and understanding how it impacts your confidence, comfort, and daily life. Your body type, chest anatomy, skin elasticity, and health history are carefully evaluated to determine the most effective approach, with the goal of creating a flatter, firmer, and naturally masculine chest contour.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline. During your visit, we'll use advanced 3D imaging to show you a realistic preview of your potential results, giving you confidence and clarity in your decision. 

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What to Expect During Your Gynecomastia Consultation

Your consultation is a private, respectful conversation designed to help you understand your options and feel comfortable discussing a sensitive concern.

When you meet with your surgeon, you’ll discuss:

  • When and how the chest fullness developed
  • Any contributing factors such as weight changes, medications, or hormone-related issues
  • Whether excess tissue is primarily fatty, glandular, or both
  • Surgical techniques best suited to your anatomy
  • Incision placement and scarring expectations
  • Recovery timeline and activity restrictions
  • Long-term expectations and lifestyle considerations

Your surgeon will also examine chest skin quality, nipple position, and overall chest proportions. From there, a surgical plan is developed that prioritizes natural-looking results, discretion, and safe recovery.

Schedule your Consultation

See Your Future Self

With Crisalix 3D visualization, preview your potential aesthetic outcomes from home. This advanced technology shows personalized results, helping you feel confident and informed about your path forward.

Am I a good candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

Ideal candidates are healthy men annoyed by persistent chest fullness that does not improve with weight loss or exercise. Candidates should maintain a stable weight, have realistic expectations, and be willing to follow post-op guidelines. Sometimes additional skin-tightening procedures are recommended for weight-loss patients.
Stable body weight
Good overall health
Non-smoker or willing to quit temporarily
Excess glandular or fatty chest tissue
Embarrassment or discomfort due to chest appearance
Condition unresponsive to diet and exercise
No uncontrolled medical conditions
Willingness to follow recovery instructions
Realistic expectations about scarring and results

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Male Breast Reduction Journey and Recovery

From your first consultation to your final results, you’re guided through every stage of your Male Breast Reduction journey with personalized support, automated instructions, and 24/7 access to your care team. This is your journey, we just make it easier. 

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation and physical evaluation. Based on your anatomy, your surgeon will determine whether liposuction alone, glandular tissue removal, or a combination approach is necessary.

Privacy and discretion are central throughout the process, and your care plan is designed to fit seamlessly into your life.

The Male Breast Reduction Procedure

Gynecomastia surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure.

Depending on your needs:

  • Liposuction may be used when excess tissue is primarily fatty
  • Surgical excision is used to remove firm glandular tissue, often through a small incision along the edge of the areola
  • In many cases, both techniques are combined for the best contour

Whenever possible, a drainless technique is used to support comfort and recovery, though drains may be placed in more complex cases.

Gynecomastia Recovery Timeline

Recovery is generally well tolerated and progresses steadily.

Immediately after surgery

  • Mild to moderate soreness and swelling
  • Discomfort managed with oral pain medication
  • Compression garment applied to support healing

First few days

  • Return to desk work and light daily activities
  • Swelling gradually improves

Weeks 1–2

  • Compression garment worn continuously as instructed
  • Light movement encouraged

Weeks 2–3

  • Gradual return to gym activity
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous chest exercises until cleared

Most patients are back to normal routines within a few days and resume full activity within a few weeks, depending on healing.

Gynecomastia Results

Results are visible early, though swelling may temporarily mask final definition. As healing progresses, the chest becomes flatter, firmer, and more contoured.

For many men, the improvement in chest shape leads to increased comfort in clothing, greater confidence, and relief from long-standing self-consciousness.

You can expect to resume light activities within 2-3 days and can return to work within 3-5 days. Most patients follow this timeline:

Complete recovery and healing take approximately 3-6 months. During this time:

  • Month 2 - 3

  • Month 3 - 6:

  • Long Term

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What kind of implants do we offer?

Plastic surgeons in the U.S. now have four main choices of manufacturers of silicone and saline breast implants with FDA approval. At South Coast Plastic Surgery we offer: Motiva, Sientra, Allergan, and Mentor, providing you with the broadest range of high-quality options to achieve your ideal outcome.

Motiva Silicone Gel Implants

Motiva® Round and Ergonomix® implants are now FDA-approved for augmentation (primary and revision). These implants feature the patented SmoothSilk® surface designed to enhance biocompatibility and lower inflammation. They also include an ergonomic gel shell that helps the implant adapt to body position. Clinical trial data show very low complication rates: e.g., less than 1% for capsular contracture or rupture.

At South Coast Plastic Surgery, we now recommend Motiva as our first line option for patients seeking advanced silicone gel implants with the latest safety and ergonomic design.

Sientra Silicone Gel Implants

Sientra silicone gel breast implants are available only to board-certified plastic surgeons and are not available to MD’s who have not gone through the rigorous training to achieve board-certification. Sientra implants are produced with the latest in silicone gel technology, creating an implant that is formable.

These implants have the advantage of retaining their shape whether you are standing up or lying down, which prevents them from rippling or folding in their shells. Sientra implants have an extremely low rupture rate, which reduces the risk of the need for a secondary surgery due to a ruptured implant.

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Mentor Cohesive Gel Implants

We also offer Mentor cohesive gel implants, known for their natural feel and proven safety record. Mentor implants provide excellent shape retention and are a popular choice among patients seeking balanced, natural-looking results.

Allergan Semi-Solid Implants

Allergan semi-solid implants offer another premium option, providing a soft, natural feel with excellent durability. These implants are designed to maintain their shape while moving naturally with your body.

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Is saline or silicone best?

For women younger than 22 years of age, saline implants are the only commercially available option for cosmetic breast augmentation. Some women opt for saline because they are more comfortable with the idea of an implant made with a saltwater solution. Saline implants are not filled until after insertion, so the incisions can be slightly smaller than those needed when placing silicone implants.

What’s right for you?

The majority of women prefer silicone implants as they tend to produce a more natural look and feel. Today’s silicone gel is semi-firm to the touch yet is still malleable and pliant, and closely mimics the bounce and feel of natural breast tissue.

What are anatomical breast implants?

In breast augmentation, the shape of the implant plays a key role in determining your final breast appearance.

‍Teardrop-Shaped Implants

‍Anatomical implants are shaped like a natural breast, with more volume concentrated at the bottom and tapering off toward the top. These teardrop-shaped implants are more popular for women with little natural breast tissue in performing breast reconstruction surgery. Anatomical implants are also the most common implant shape of choice for older women, as the graduated shape more closely resembles the natural appearance of a breast at that stage of life.

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What are round breast implants?

Round Breast Implants

Round implants provide volume throughout the breast, including the upper portion of the breast. While some women seek this aesthetic, as it gives a full, high look, others believe that this upper volume makes the implants look too unnatural.

During your consultation, Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein will help you determine which implant shape best suits your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Schedule your Consultation

Gynecomastia Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how technique and healing influence gynecomastia outcomes can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident throughout the process.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Natural-looking gynecomastia results depend on removing excess tissue while preserving normal chest contours. The goal is not a hollowed or overly tight appearance, but a chest that looks proportionate and masculine.

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At South Coast Plastic Surgery, surgical planning focuses on smooth transitions, symmetry, and maintaining a natural nipple position. When performed thoughtfully, gynecomastia surgery produces results that do not appear “surgical.”

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Is Scarring a Concern?

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Scarring from gynecomastia surgery is typically minimal. When glandular tissue removal is required, incisions are placed along the edge of the areola, where scars often blend well with natural skin transitions. Liposuction incisions are small and discreet.

Over time, most scars fade significantly and become difficult to notice.

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Scar Healing Timeline

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Scar healing generally follows this progression:

  • Weeks 1–2: Mild redness and firmness
  • Months 1–3: Softening and flattening
  • 6–12 months: Continued fading and refinement

Proper garment use and scar care support optimal healing.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Gynecomastia surgery is considered safe when performed by an expert plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. As with any surgery, potential risks may include:

  • Infection or bleeding
  • Fluid accumulation
  • Changes in nipple sensation
  • Asymmetry or contour irregularities
  • Scarring

These risks are minimized through careful planning, precise technique, and close follow-up care.

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Reducing Your Risk

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Safety is supported by:

  • Thorough evaluation of chest anatomy and contributing factors
  • Selection of the appropriate surgical technique
  • Use of compression garments to control swelling
  • Clear recovery instructions and follow-up visits

With proper care, most men heal well and are satisfied with their gynecomastia surgery results.

How much does Male Breast Reduction cost in Irvine, CA?

Book your consultation

Starting at $8,500.

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This preliminary pricing provides a baseline for your planning. Your final investment may vary based on your anatomy, the complexity of your procedure, and any additional techniques required to achieve your aesthetic goals. During your consultation, we'll perform a thorough examination and create a personalized surgical plan with exact pricing tailored to deliver your desired results.

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Financing options available through:

Trusted by Our Community

4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Crystal Surmanian
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Frequently Asked Questions About Male Breast Reduction

Everything you need to know about Male Breast Reduction, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

What causes gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia can be triggered by genetics, hormonal changes, obesity, certain medications, anabolic steroids, or marijuana use. Sometimes the cause is unknown, but surgery remains the most predictable solution.
How is male breast reduction performed?
The procedure involves removing excess glandular tissue through a small areolar incision, liposuctioning fatty tissue, or combining both approaches for optimal contour.
Will I need general anesthesia?
Yes. Male breast reduction is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Is liposuction alone enough to fix my chest?
• If fullness is purely fatty, liposuction may suffice. • Dense glandular tissue requires excision. • Most patients benefit from a combination of both for the best contour.

Recovery & Results

How long is the recovery?
Most patients are back to work in 3-5 days, resume light exercise in two weeks, and return to full workouts by six weeks.
When will I see my final results?
You’ll notice a flatter chest immediately, but swelling takes about 3-6 months to completely resolve for final definition.
Do I have to wear a compression garment?
Yes, we recommend a snug vest for 1-2 weeks full-time, then part-time as advised to minimize swelling and aid skin retraction.
Can gynecomastia come back after surgery?
Recurrence is rare but possible with significant weight gain, hormonal imbalance, or steroid use. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps preserve results.

Safety & Risks

Will there be drains?
Our drainless technique eliminates the need for drains in most cases. Drains are reserved for extensive or revision surgeries.
Is male breast reduction safe?
When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility, the procedure is very safe with high satisfaction rates.
What are the potential complications?
Possible issues include bleeding, infection, scar irregularities, changes in sensation, or asymmetry, all of which are discussed during your consultation.
How can I minimize my risk?
Follow pre-op instructions, stop smoking, maintain stable weight, and attend all follow-ups so we can monitor healing closely.

Cost & Insurance

Will anesthesia make me sick?
Modern anesthesia is well-tolerated. Preventive medications are given to reduce nausea, and most patients feel comfortable shortly after surgery.
Does insurance cover gynecomastia surgery?
Insurance rarely covers the procedure as it’s considered cosmetic, but our team can provide paperwork if you wish to inquire with your provider.
What payment options are available?
We accept major credit cards, CareCredit, Alphaeon Credit, and offer in-house payment plans to help make surgery more affordable.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Care

Will I need future procedures?
In most cases, results are permanent. Significant weight changes or hormonal shifts may require touch-up surgery in the future.
How do I care for my scars long-term?
Use silicone gel or sheets, protect scars from sun exposure, and massage the area once cleared by your surgeon to encourage flat, pale scars.
When can I return to the gym?

Light cardio starts at two weeks, lower-body weights at three weeks, and chest exercises at six weeks, depending on healing.

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