Gynecomastia is a condition responsible for enlarged male breast tissue, and it affects more than half of men and boys worldwide. While gynecomastia is medically benign, it can make many men self-conscious and embarrassed about their appearance.
Male breast reduction surgery aims to restore a more masculine profile and help renew your self-image and confidence. However, a successful outcome requires preparation, a realistic outlook, and a good post-operative routine.
At Zinsser Plastic Surgery, Dr. John Zinsser and our expert team are here to help you navigate your gynecomastia surgery post-op routine and achieve your optimal results.
What Is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia results in puffy or feminine-looking breasts in men due to hormonal changes, weight gain and obesity, or the use of specific medications. Along with physical effects, gynecomastia also causes emotional distress and adversely affects confidence and self-image.
When performing male breast reduction surgery, Dr. Zinsser can produce a flat, toned chest contour by reducing:
- Localized fat affecting one or both breasts
- Glandular tissue development
- Breast skin
Benefits of a Gynecomastia Post-Surgery Routine
Following gynecomastia surgery, you can take steps to ensure you achieve the best possible results. Though we’ll give you detailed instructions to follow during your recovery period, here are some suggestions to get you started.
Rest
Depending on the extent of your customized surgical plan, you should take time off work to heal. The timing of returning to work depends on what “work” is. Additionally, some patients have drain tubes that remain for a few days, which impacts return. In most cases, returning to a desk job can occur around 10-14 days. During this time, you may get tired more quickly than usual, so listen to your body and rest when you need to. Resting helps speed healing, helping you feel like yourself sooner.
Hydrate and Eat a Balanced Diet
Staying hydrated helps you maintain your metabolism and bounce back more quickly. Dr. Zinsser recommends avoiding water with all surgical procedures for 2-3 days. During this period, drinking sports drinks like Gatorade or Power are the closest thing a patient can get to a bag of IV fluid.
Similarly, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet following surgery ensures your body receives the essential nutrients for recovery. While healing, avoid eating large meals and fatty or salty foods, as they contribute to swelling.
Adopt Better Posture
Many men living with gynecomastia have bad posture because they habitually hunch their shoulders to minimize their chest appearance.
Following gynecomastia surgery, you can reclaim your confident stature by practicing proper posture. Ways to do so include doing targeted exercises and stretches, rolling your shoulders, sitting tall in straight-backed chairs, and pushing your chest out when standing. Patients will be able to resume exercise at around 4 weeks after the gynecomastia procedure.
Your Richmond, VA, Gynecomastia Specialist
Dr. Zinsser and his friendly team will help you reshape your chest appearance to create the more masculine look you deserve.
Contact Zinsser Plastic Surgery PC at (804) 474-9805 or complete our online form to schedule your gynecomastia surgery consultation today!