Gynecomastia Recovery: Everything You Need to Know
Gynecomastia, a condition that causes enlarged male breasts due to excess glandular tissue and fat, is a condition that can affect males of all ages. If you are considering male breast reduction surgery to flatten your chest area, it is important that you also educate yourself on what to expect during the recovery process. Read on for vital information regarding gynecomastia surgery recovery.
What to Expect Directly After Gynecomastia Surgery
Directly after your male breast reduction surgery, you can expect to have bandages and dressings applied to your incisions, as well as drains to collect any excess fluid during the healing process. You will also be given a support garment to minimize swelling as well as support your new chest contour. Your compression garment must be worn for six weeks.
During the first few days, you may experience some soreness, though the amount of discomfort patients feel is usually minimal. Some men may experience a temporary loss of sensation in the treated area, which will resolve over the following weeks and months.
Information Regarding Healing
Dr. Delgado will provide you with specific recovery instructions following gynecomastia surgery. These will include how to take care of your surgical incisions and drains, as well as information regarding any follow-up meetings to check on your healing progress. It is important that you attend these follow-up meetings, as they are vital to ensuring that your chest is healing well after male breast reduction surgery.
Patients who live more than one hour away are advised to stay at a local hotel for the first night so that Dr. Delgado can be close in case of post-surgery complications.
Gynecomastia Surgery Final Results
Following gynecomastia surgery, most patients can expect to see full results six months after surgery. Males will be able to enjoy a much flatter, trimmer, and masculine-looking chest once the swelling subsides. Final results are also long-lasting, as long as you follow a healthy diet and exercise plan and avoid using anabolic steroids which can affect testosterone levels or illegal drugs.
Tips For a Speedy Recovery at Home
There are some steps that you can take to help ensure effective treatment results. These include:
Stay Hydrated
Male breast reduction patients should take care to stay hydrated after surgery. Drink water with every meal, though you should avoid alcohol for at least 72 hours after surgery.
Follow Instructions Regarding Activity Allowance
In the days following male breast reduction surgery, you should let your body rest. On the first day, you should avoid all strenuous activity, including driving or operating machinery of any kind. On your second day, you may begin to take short and gentle walks which can quicken recovery. Exercise will need to be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
Take Your Recovery Medications
During your recovery period be sure to follow Dr. Delgado’s instructions regarding pain medication, as well as other forms of medication. You will need to be sure to avoid medicines that contain ibuprofen or aspirins, as they can lead to blood clotting complications.
Schedule a Gynecomastia Consultation in San Francisco
Gynecomastia surgery can be an effective solution for both teens and adult men. If you are considering a male breast reduction procedure to achieve a flatter male chest contour, contact Dr. Delgado today to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Dr. Delgado is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in gynecomastia surgery. He has locations in San Francisco, CA, and Novato, CA, but also offers virtual consultations.
