Male Breast Reduction Recovery: What to Expect
Gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts, is a condition that affects many men today, often impacting self-esteem and quality of life. Male breast reduction can correct the appearance of enlarged male breasts, helping men achieve a more masculine physique. As with any surgery, male breast reduction requires time for recovery. It's important to understand what recovery entails before undergoing male breast reduction. Plastic surgeon Constance Barone provides detailed information about what to expect during breast reduction recovery during consultations at her San Antonio, TX practice. For answers to your questions about recovery after male breast reduction, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Barone.
Recovery after Male Breast Reduction
In the first few days after male breast reduction surgery, it is normal for patients to feel some level of discomfort or pain around the chest. Pain can typically be controlled with medication approved or prescribed by your surgeon. It's also not uncommon for patients to experiencing bruising and swelling. Swelling is a natural response to the healing process and can be alleviated by applying clean ice packs to the chest and by wearing compression garments as advised.
Pain, bruising, and swelling should subside within a week; however, some swelling may persist for several months after surgery. It's important to note that pain or swelling that becomes worse, or is accompanied by redness, can be an indication of infection or complication and should be brought to your doctor's attention.
Returning to Normal Activity after Male Breast Reduction
Depending on the extent of surgery, including how much tissue was removed, patients may feel well enough to return to work a few days after surgery. With that said, patients should stick to light activity and avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the first two weeks after surgery. After three to four weeks, activity may increase, but strenuous activity should continue to be avoided until approved by your surgeon, generally five to six weeks after surgery.
When Can You Expect to See Results?
Many patients will notice improvement with the size of their chests immediately after surgery, but full results can take weeks to several months to become visible. As swelling decreases, the full results of male breast reduction surgery will become apparent. Wearing compression garments as advised can help reduce swelling for quicker results.
Tips to Help with Recovery after Male Breast Reduction
The best way to help speed along your recovery is to follow all pre- and post-surgical instructions. It is also recommended that patients drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and limit salt intake to reduce swelling. Sitting upright can also help reduce swelling of the chest tissues and wearing loose fitting shirts can aid in comfort. Patients should also refrain from drinking alcohol during the initial recovery stage and smoking should cease prior to surgery and throughout recovery.
Is Male Breast Reduction Right for You?
To find out if male breast reduction is right for you, or to discuss alternative treatment options, we welcome you to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Barone.
