The Truth about Recovering from Gynecomastia Surgery
Achieving great results from gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction) depends on many factors, including the skill and experience of your surgeon. Another element that is important to the surgical outcomes is your recovery period.
NYC plastic surgeon Joshua Greenwald will ensure you have truthful, accurate information about the healing process, and provide detailed instructions. With the right information, you can increase the likelihood of a speedy recovery and optimal surgical result.
How Long Does It Take to Recover?
In general, how quickly you heal from gynecomastia surgery is based on:
- The surgical approach taken by Dr. Greenwald (i.e., whether he performed liposuction and/or tissue excision)
- Your age and health
- Whether you comply with Dr. Greenwald’s post-operative instructions
For a safe and speedy recovery, it is imperative that you follow all of Dr. Greenwald’s post-operative instructions. This information is intended to reduce the risk of complications and help your body heal optimally.
Common Side Effects
Swelling, bruising and soreness are common side effects after gynecomastia surgery. You may feel tight or sore in your chest area if you spend time working at a computer or lift your arms.
It is also common to have less energy than normal as your body recuperates from the operation. You should take it easy and rest as much as possible. If you experience any discomfort, you can take prescription painkillers provided by Dr. Greenwald or over-the-counter medication like Tylenol.
Compression Garments
After surgery, an elastic bandage or support garment will be placed around your chest to minimize swelling and prevent any type of fluid accumulation. The slight compression from the bandage or garment also supports the healing breast tissues. You should wear the bandage or compression garment for about three to four weeks, until Dr. Greenwald permits you to remove it.
Resuming Your Daily Routine
You can bathe as soon as the day after surgery as long as you avoid getting the incisions wet. You can resume work or school about a week after surgery if you feel ready. If you work a physically demanding job, you might want to take additional time off to recuperate.
You can resume light exercise, such as short walks or slow rides on a stationary bike, approximately a week after surgery. You should refrain from lifting weights or performing chest exercises for about three to four weeks after surgery. At that point, you can gradually increase the intensity of the workouts.
Contact Dr. Joshua Greenwald
If you have any questions or concerns about the recovery process after gynecomastia surgery, Dr. Greenwald encourages you to reach out at any point. Please call or email our practice to speak with a member of our team.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.