Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery- Timeline, Diet, Lifestyle Changes

Week-to-Week Recovery Timeline

The recovery timeline after gynecomastia surgery can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Here is a general week-to-week recovery timeline that you can expect:

Day 1- Dressing Change

On the first day of the recovery, the patient is likely to still be groggy and drowsy most of the time.  This is simply due to anesthesia given before the surgery. To add here, the drowsiness can be there for 2 days. Also, due to the compression garment, there is not much discomfort.

The pain and discomfort kick off once the effect of anesthesia wears off. The individual needs to visit the doctor for a dressing change. Doctors recommend eating a diet that is rich in protein, vitamin C and zinc.

Day 2- Resume work 

Once the anesthesia effect wears off, there can be pain, tightness or tenderness around the wounds. When the pain strikes, take the pain medicines such as Tylenol as prescribed by the doctor. In some cases, there can be some numbness around the wounds. There can be a feeling of nausea and vomiting. Also, there can be swelling in the chest area.

On the second day itself, the individual can resume work such as go back to work, etc. He needs to just wear the compression garment 24 hours the day. While sleeping, try to sleep on the back in an elevated position at a 45-degree position. Moreover, go for a light walk to increase blood circulation throughout the body. Listen to the doctor on how to take a bath.

After 1 week

Within 7 days of the surgery, there should neither be any pain nor any swelling. If the patient is feeling any of these, they need to contact the doctor immediately. After proper consultation with the doctor, the patient can resume cardio exercises that don’t involve the pectoralis muscles. Start with light cardio then gradually, shift high-intensity ones.

Even if the patient feels like sleeping on their side, it is still not recommended. Make sure that the compression garment is worn. In addition to this, ensure that the blood pressure remains normal.

After 2 weeks 

After a fortnight of the surgery, the patient feels normal. Apart from strenuous activities that require excessive exertion, normal daily activities are allowed. If the patient now wants can sleep sideways also.

After 3 weeks

By the 21st day, the surgeon clears off the patient to start with their normal exercises. There is no longer any need to wear the compression garment. Furthermore, they can even take normal baths. However, remember that exercises that tighten up the chest should still be avoided.

After 6 weeks

The six weeks marks the end of the recovery process. By the end of 6 weeks, the patient will be able to see the desired results. The individual is allowed to perform all kinds of exercises including chest-tightening exercises. This implies that the person can start with the exercises to enhance the body contour. Furthermore, he is allowed to sleep in any position. However, it is important to take it easy when there is any pain or discomfort while performing the exercises or any strenuous activities for that matter.

Most patients recover completely within 4-6 weeks and can resume most activities, including exercise after that. As every case of gynecomastia is different, the exact recovery duration will also be different. And the results are determined by how well the patient follows the doctor’s instructions during the recovery period. It’s also important to contact the doctor if the patient experiences high fever, persistent pain, blood drainage, and other symptoms of post-surgery complications. 

Exercises & Lifestyle Changes Recommended after Male Breast Reduction Surgery

After male breast reduction surgery, it is important to make lifestyle changes and incorporate exercises that can help promote healing, maintain the results of the surgery, and improve your overall health. Here are some recommended exercises and lifestyle changes:

• Start with short walks and gradually increase your duration and intensity over time. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote healing. 
• After a few weeks, you may be able to incorporate light cardiovascular exercises such as cycling, swimming, or using the elliptical. However, avoid any high-impact or strenuous activities that may put stress on your chest muscles.
• After several weeks, the patient may be able to incorporate resistance training exercises such as bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or light weights to help build and tone chest muscles. However, it’s important to follow the surgeon’s recommendations and avoid any exercises that may put excessive strain on the chest.
• Follow a healthy diet that is rich in protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains to support healing and recovery.
• Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke.
• Maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise to help maintain the results of the surgery and reduce the risk of developing gynecomastia again.

It’s important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and gradually increase your activity level over time. If you experience any pain or discomfort, contact the surgeon immediately.