Many male patients who struggle with enlarged, feminine breasts (a condition known as gynecomastia) often look into gynecomastia surgery to alleviate their embarrassment and rid themselves of excess fat and glandular tissue. With men now commonly undergoing plastic surgery to improve their self-esteem, making sure they are taking proper care of their health during their recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. Although taking time off is not ideal for any man with a busy schedule, tackling too much after surgery is not a good idea either. Here are a few ways to help make your recovery easier and more comfortable after undergoing extensive surgery.
Incision Care
The more you rest, the faster your recovery will be. It is important that you take this time to allow your body to heal after an extensive procedure. Be sure to refrain from all strenuous activities that require large shoulder and chest movements until your incisions are fully healed. Any physical activity that puts stress or tension on the treated area can lead to serious injuries or complications. If you feel restless and need to move around, we recommend you do the following:
- Engage in easy housework
- Take light walks to prevent blood clots from developing
- Start a new hobby like adult coloring or solving puzzles
When to Shower and Shave
It is crucial that you do not shower or bathe following your gynecomastia surgery, as submerging your incisions will soak your bandages and increase the risk of infection. If you insist on showering, use a sponge to gently clean the treated area. Pat the incisions dry once you are finished. After a few days have passed and your surgeon has removed your bandages, you will be able to shower with lukewarm water. You will not be able to bathe for at least two weeks, or until your incisions are fully healed.
If you are someone who shaves their chest regularly, make sure to wait until you have cleared it with your surgeon. Shaving right after gynecomastia surgery is not the best decision, as the area needs time to heal after having endured an intense procedure.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
It is beneficial to take care of your physical health as well as your incisions after undergoing gynecomastia surgery. Be sure to drink plenty of water or fruit juices to prevent dehydration. If it is too painful to swallow solid foods during the first few days of your recovery, we recommend eating the following:
- Soup
- Jell-O®
- Smoothies
- Pudding
- Milkshakes
Once you feel you can make the switch to eating solid foods, it is recommended that you consume a healthy meal that contains plenty of fruits, veggies, and protein. Drinking alcohol and smoking must be avoided for the next few weeks, as these can delay your healing process.
Maintaining a healthy and hygienic lifestyle will make your recovery go more smoothly, and your results will look great giving you the boost of confidence you’ve needed.
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery and to determine if you are a good candidate, call our Broward office at (954) 589-0722 or our Miami/Dade office at (305) 756-8743.