Gynecomastia is a surgery to reduce the size of enlarged breasts, which some men may suffer from. It may be difficult to go through the recovery process of this type of procedure, that is why it is important that you know everything about the postoperative period of gynecomastia and the care after the surgery. Keep reading, here we will explain them to you.
How long does it take to recover from gynecomastia surgery?
We know that suffering from gynecomastia can be very uncomfortable for many men, and the most common way to eliminate it is through surgery.
Before undergoing this procedure we believe you should know that the recovery time for a gynecomastia operation will depend on several factors.
First of all, how extensive the surgery has been and what additional procedures were performed in the same surgery. Because it is common for gynecomastia to be combined with liposuction in the area.
Secondly, a factor that influences any recovery from surgery is that each person is different, and each body reacts differently. Equally important is the patient's state of health and habits prior to surgery.
The first days after surgery the patient may feel a lot of pain. The 3 days following the operation should remain in complete rest. The pain, discomfort and sensitivity will disappear during the first week.
On the second day, the patient can walk without much effort, as recommended by the physician.
The patient will require a week or two to return to work and daily tasks that do not involve physical exertion or activities that may increase blood pressure. It is advisable not to try to raise the arms above the head.
Progressively, and according to the surgeon's indications, you will be able to return to your normal activities.
Postoperative care of gynecomastia
After a gynecomastia operation in Madrid Spain it is normal for patients to feel discomfort, moderate pain, tenderness, swelling and bruising.
As the days go by, each one of these symptoms will diminish until they disappear completely. But it is necessary to comply with all the necessary care and with the doctor's indications, in order to have a better postoperative process of gynecomastia and a prompt recovery.
What to do after gynecomastia surgery?
Care after surgery is as important as the procedure itself. Follow these guidelines after gynecomastia surgery for a better recovery.
- Healthy eating
A liquid or soft diet at first and then a healthy diet with lots of vegetables and fruits is recommended. Foods that provide vitamins, minerals and plenty of water are necessary in the recovery process.
In addition, drink plenty of water or natural juices.
- The routine
The patient should be aware of the importance of adequate rest during recovery after surgery. A good rest, in addition to avoiding physical effort, is the most appropriate during the first days.
As mentioned before, returning to the daily routine will be progressive, and it will be the surgeon who will make the evaluation and indicate to the patient what he/she can and should not do.
- Medications
The surgeon will prescribe analgesics to reduce pain and inflammation, and antibiotics if necessary. As with other procedures, the patient should completely avoid taking medications not prescribed by the surgeon, such as anticoagulants.
If you have any pathology that requires continuous medical treatment, you should discuss this with your doctor beforehand, and it will be your doctor who will make the decisions about your consumption, before and after the operation.
- Compression garments
The use of compression garments helps the patient reduce swelling and bruising, normal effects of surgery. In addition, they function to contain the skin in the area so that the contour is improved and the skin adjusts to the new shape.
How long should the girdle be worn after gynecomastia?
Compression garments or girdles will be necessary during the first postoperative week. The patient should wear it all day long. After that, the second week the time is reduced to 18 hours a day.
It is necessary to wear the girdle until three or four weeks after surgery.
It is very important to care for and wash the girdle to avoid infections. Remember to wash it with cold water and let it dry well.
What happens if I don't wear a girdle after a gynecomastia?
Not wearing the girdle may worsen bruising, because compression garments help improve blood circulation in the area of surgery.
In addition to this, you may not get the expected results, because the girdle works by molding the skin and making the contour look better. Not using the compression garment for at least the first 15 days may cause swelling that leads to an altered silhouette.
How long does the swelling last after gynecomastia?
The final results of a gynecomastia can be seen three to six months after surgery. It is during this period that the breast tissue heals completely and, consequently, the swelling disappears.
What to eat after gynecomastia?
A healthy and balanced diet before and after gynecomastia is very important for patients. It is essential to drink plenty of water or fruit juices to avoid dehydration.
The consumption of vitamins and supplements such as vitamin C, zinc, bromelain and vitamin A can help the patient recover faster because it helps reduce bruising and swelling.
In addition, if the patient is in a lot of pain for the first few days, it may be difficult to chew and swallow solid food. If this is the case, a soft liquid diet including soups, shakes, jelly, purees or puddings is recommended.
Then, when you begin to feel better, you can start eating solid foods, but always remembering that they must be healthy. Eat protein, lots of fruits and vegetables.
As with any surgery, the consumption of alcoholic beverages and smoking should be completely avoided, both before and after gynecomastia.
This guide about gynecomastia postoperative and after surgery care will help you learn more about everything you should expect after gynecomastia. In case you are thinking of undergoing this operation contact us to ask for an evaluation and we will gladly assist you.
