True gynecomastia is caused by glandular breast tissue, not fat. That distinction matters because glandular tissue does not respond to diet, exercise, or weight loss — it can only be removed surgically. Many men spend years assuming the problem is body fat and that leaning out will fix it. For some, that is true; for many others, the glandular component remains stubbornly present regardless of body composition. A thorough evaluation distinguishes true gynecomastia from pseudogynecomastia (fatty tissue without gland) and mixed cases, which are the most common presentation.
Gynecomastia can result from pubertal hormonal changes that never fully resolved, natural hormonal fluctuation with age, certain medications, or hormonal changes associated with performance-enhancing compounds. Regardless of the cause, the surgical approach involves direct excision of the glandular tissue through a small periareolar incision, combined with liposuction of the surrounding chest and flanks when appropriate to create a smooth, masculine, sculpted result.
Good candidates are healthy adult men who have had stable gynecomastia for at least six to twelve months, have ruled out underlying hormonal or medication causes, are at or near their stable body weight, and are bothered by the appearance of their chest. Men who are very lean and athletic are often excellent surgical candidates, though lean anatomy requires additional precision in technique and incision planning to avoid visible contour irregularities. Men who have previously had gynecomastia surgery elsewhere with unsatisfactory results — including crater deformity, residual glandular tissue, or asymmetry — are also candidates for revision surgery.
Patients in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Sunriver, Prineville, and across the Pacific Northwest come to Alpenaura Plastic Surgery when they are ready to stop working around a problem that exercise cannot solve. For athletes and physically active men, gynecomastia is particularly frustrating because the gap between how the body looks in the gym and how it looks without a shirt can feel impossible to close. Dr. Carboy brings a direct, non-judgmental approach to every consultation and understands the specific aesthetic goals and recovery demands of active male patients.
Gynecomastia surgery is performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation as an outpatient procedure. Surgery typically takes one to two hours depending on complexity and whether liposuction is included. Incisions are placed at the periareolar border, where they heal as a nearly invisible line. A light compression vest is worn for several weeks after surgery. Most patients are comfortable returning to desk work within five to seven days, resume lower-body training within a week, and return to full chest training at four to six weeks. Final chest contour continues to refine over three to six months.
Board-eligible plastic surgeon known for her refined, detail-oriented approach to cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. With a strong focus on natural-looking outcomes, she specializes in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.
“True transformation is not just about how you look — it’s about how confidently you live every day. My goal is to deliver results that feel natural, balanced, and uniquely yours.”
Dr. Jourdan Carboy is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his refined, detail-oriented approach to aesthetic surgery. With a strong focus on natural-looking outcomes, he specializes in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.
With a compassionate and attentive approach, she empowers patients to take control of their health while supporting long-term, sustainable results that align with their lifestyle and goals.
Experience personalized plastic surgery and aesthetic care designed to enhance confidence with natural, refined results.