If enlarged breast tissue makes you feel self-conscious, you are not alone. Gynecomastia, a condition often caused by poor balance of estrogen and testosterone in men, increases breast tissue, affecting men of all ages.
However, the prevalence of gynecomastia is greater in older men, with at least one in four between the ages of 50 and 69 experiencing increased breast size. While weight loss can sometimes improve the appearance of breasts, gynecomastia surgery, or breast reduction, is often the only treatment option to give you a more masculine appearance. But what can you expect during male breast reduction recovery?
The First Few Weeks after Your Procedure
After your breast reduction surgery, your surgeon will likely ask you to wear a support garment over your bandages. This helps to reduce swelling after your procedure and support the new contour of your chest. In some cases, you may have a small tube under the skin to allow for drainage. During this time, it is essential to follow the post-op instructions your surgeon provided.
It is important to avoid strenuous activity after your breast reduction surgery as it can open your sutures and contribute to injury or scarring.
Recovery from gynecomastia surgery typically lasts about a week, though you may experience some swelling and tenderness. After the first week, you can gradually increase your activity level, though you should avoid strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks.
Long-Term Care after Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery removes excess glandular tissue and skin, giving you back your masculine contours. While this tissue and skin are gone, and the results should be permanent, excess weight gain, the use of steroids or other medical conditions can result in a recurrence of gynecomastia. Following a healthy lifestyle is essential to maintaining your surgical results. It is also a good idea to talk with your primary physician about any medications or conditions that may contribute to gynecomastia and how you can reduce your risk of recurrence.
If you are experiencing increased breast size and would like more information on gynecomastia surgery, contact Dr. Drew Davis today at 916-318-5770 or reach out online today.
Author: Dr. Drew Davis
Dr. Drew Davis completed his residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University Medical Center and is proud to be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. After practicing for many years in the Bay Area, Dr. Davis has chosen private practice in the Sacramento area to allow him to provide the most personal and individualized patient care.
