Recovery After Gynecomastia Surgery in Charlotte

Before Surgery

Making preparations before your gynecomastia procedure in Charlotte can help promote a quick and effective recovery. Be sure to have a small bottle of acetaminophen (Tylenol) at home so you do not have to run to a store for any mild pain you may experience post-procedure. If you cannot take acetaminophen, discuss this with the Ditesheim Cosmetic Surgery staff so you can find an alternative and have it readily available.

Since you will be wearing a compression garment to help decrease swelling and assist your body in adjusting to your smaller breasts, you may want an extra compression shirt in case one is in the laundry. You must wear a compression garment at all times for up to four weeks.

While you can return to most regular activities shortly after surgery, you are advised to avoid heavy lifting, pushing, or strenuous exercise. You may want someone to walk your dog or assist in other activities for a day or two immediately after surgery. Ensure you have sufficient food at home and that most of your laundry is done to avoid the need for lifting.

The Day of Surgery

Gynecomastia surgery is typically a straightforward procedure, though the specifics will vary depending on the extent of treatment required. You will be able to leave after recovering in our surgical suite. While it is advisable to have a driver available, it is not mandatory to have one if you are only receiving local tumescent anesthesia. 

Recovery After Surgery

Your recovery period is critical for obtaining the best possible result. Before you leave our office, we will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your incision(s) and what activities are safe to engage in. You should attend all post-procedure appointments so that we can monitor your progress.

The team at Ditesheim Cosmetic Surgery is committed to providing your desired result, but your post-surgery care will play a significant role in your outcome. We are just a phone call away if you have any questions or encounter any problems. You will receive instructions on how to reach us 24/7.

Pain Management

Every patient worries about pain after a procedure. Most of our patients report feeling sore, as if they had finished an extra heavy workout. You may need acetaminophen to manage your pain. However, we ask that you avoid using ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) for at least the first 48 hours, as these medications could increase the risk of developing a hematoma (a collection of excess blood). If acetaminophen does not adequately relieve your pain, call us so that we can evaluate your condition.

Bandage Maintenance

Do not touch the bandages until the day after surgery, unless you notice blood on the outside. Contact us immediately if you suspect any bleeding, even a tiny amount. We will guide you on what to do next. Do not remove your dressings unless we explicitly instruct you to do so.

Physical Hygiene

Do not shower when you get home to keep your incisions and dressings dry. If you must rinse off your entire body, cover your dressings with plastic wrap, securing it with suitable adhesive or athletic tape around the edges. Alternatively, you can use TegadermTM dressings, which have a seal around the entire edge to keep water out. However, we recommend washing up in the sink if possible. Take your time and be cautious. 

By 24 hours after your surgery, your incisions should be fully closed, making it easier to shower. Using a TegadermTM dressing on your incisions is still recommended to prevent irritation while dressed. Once your incisions are closed, let soap and water run over them, but do not rub or scrub them. Always pat dry – save vigorous rubbing for later.

Physical Activity

While you can resume most of your usual activities, limiting physical activity involving your arms and chest (anything above your waist) is crucial, especially if you required significant work to restore normal anatomy. You can return to work after a day or two, but if your job is physically demanding, you may need to take special precautions for up to a month if your surgery was extensive. You should not lift or push anything heavier than a loaf of bread for four weeks after the procedure. Walking shortly after surgery is safe, but you should wait about two weeks before brisk walking. Additionally, refrain from running for four to six weeks because running can put undue stress on healing tissues. Discuss your post-procedure physical limitations with Dr. Ditesheim to ensure optimal recovery, and consult with our staff for advice on safely engaging in various activities.

Diet and Digestive Health

Sometimes, the stress of undergoing surgery will reduce your appetite, but this typically passes quickly. To support your recovery, be prepared to maintain a healthy diet at home. If you take narcotic or opioid pain medications, constipation is a common side effect, so you should strive to keep your bowels regular. 

Following these guidelines could be the key to an optimal recovery. For tailored advice on your recovery after a male breast reduction surgery in Charlotte, speak with our board-certified plastic surgeon today.

Work With a Caring Surgeon During Recovery After a Gynecomastia Procedure in Charlotte

Our goal is to ensure a smooth recovery. Dr. Jeffrey Ditesheim and the staff at Ditesheim Cosmetic Surgery are here to support you throughout your recovery after gynecomastia surgery in Charlotte. We provide 24/7 assistance, so do not hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns. If you are considering gynecomastia surgery, speak with a member of our team to schedule a consultation.