After Surgery - Male Chest Reduction

After your gynecomastia surgery, you will feel some discomfort for a few days, which can easily be controlled with medications prescribed by Dr. Bartell.  You’ll also be swollen and bruised for a while and will need to wear a compression garment as much as possible for about three weeks.  Although the worst of your swelling will dissipate in the first few weeks, it may be three months or more before the final results of your surgery are apparent.

In the meanwhile, you’ll be encouraged to begin walking around on the day of the surgery, and can return to work when you feel well enough, which could be as early as a day or two after the surgery.  Any stitches will generally be removed about one week following the procedure.

You’ll be advised to avoid any sport or job that risks a blow to the chest area for at least three weeks.  In general, it will take about a month before you’re back to all of your normal activities.  You should also avoid exposing the resulting scars to the sun for at least six months.  Sunlight can permanently affect your skin’s pigmentation, causing the scar to turn dark.  If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a strong sun block.

Most patients are extremely pleased with their decision to undergo surgery.  Your decision to have gynecomastia surgery is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand.  The important thing is how you feel about it.  If the procedure results meet your pre-operative goals, then your surgery is truly a success.