The condition where men have large, unflattering breasts, or gynecomastia, can be corrected using male breast reduction surgery. While these patients are usually excited to start enjoying their flatter, contoured chests, they must wait for their bodies to fully heal. However, there are multiple things they can do to keep their gynecomastia surgery recovery moving as smoothly as possible:
Use a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
The most important decision you can make during your male breast reduction treatment is to choose an experienced expert like Dr. Parham A. Ganchi. As a Harvard-trained plastic surgeon with multiple world-class credentials, Dr. Ganchi is the top provider of gynecomastia surgery in New Jersey. Utilizing only the most modern and finely-tuned techniques, he helps put his male breast reduction patients on the best path to a successful recovery.
Take Some Time Off From Work
Plan ahead of time with your employer to make sure you have the days you need to rest and return to full strength after your plastic surgery procedure. If you work in an office or other job that is not physically demanding, you should be able to head back after about a week.
Enlist the Help of a Close Friend or Family Member
Since you’ll likely be placed under general anesthesia during your surgery, keep in mind that you’ll need someone you trust to drive you home once you are released from our care. Ideally, they should also stay with you for 24-48 hours to ensure you are comfortable and safe.
Sleep On Your Back
You’ll need to sleep on your back for eight weeks to keep pressure off your chest as it heals. You should also keep your head elevated during this time.
Take Short Walks
Starting the day after your procedure, Dr. Ganchi will likely recommend that you start taking light walks whenever possible, for about five minutes at a time. This is to ensure that you keep up your strength and to reduce the risk of complications.
Avoid Intense Physical Activity
While walking is good, you’ll need to avoid running and other strenuous activities for the next six to eight weeks and until approved by Dr. Ganchi. If your job requires heavy lifting, you may need to stay home or switch to a desk position for the duration of your recovery period.
Keep Wearing Your Support Garment
After most breast surgery procedures, including for gynecomastia, patients are given a special support garment to wear for at least four to six weeks. It is designed to help your chest adhere to its new and improved shape and size.
Remember That the Swelling is Temporary
It will take some time for the swelling to completely subside, so don’t be discouraged if your chest still seems slightly larger than what you originally had in mind. You may use an ice pack as needed to ease any bruising or discomfort.
Schedule a Consultation
Of course, step one of any male breast reduction treatment plan is making sure that you qualify. To speak with Dr. Ganchi about your options, contact Ganchi Plastic Surgery Center today to set up your initial consultation!