Post Op Gynecomastia

Male Breast Reduction Post-Op Recovery Instructions

Male breast reduction patients will go home in a surgical garment. This is simply a soft elastic garment that opens in the front. This will be worn for 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. This is for both comfort and to apply compression.
In some gynecomastia patients, a surgical drain will be placed on each side of chest. They will be removed within 3 to 5 days after surgery. Read the handout entitled ‘Drain Care’ for postoperative instructions concerning them.
There will be some chest swelling and bruising. The bruising that develops will often appear days later and may be seen below the chest, even down into the ribcage area.
You may shower the following day after surgery. Remove the wrap around binder. The breast incisions, if any, will be covered with brown or flesh-covered tapes. Do not worry about getting the tapes wet. They are there to protect your incisions. Baths should not be done for two weeks after surgery. If drains are present, they may also get wet.
To aid in reducing chest wall soreness and swelling immediately after surgery, ice packs or small bags of frozen vegetables may be placed on the chest. These should be placed outside your binder and never directly on the skin to prevent the risk of skin injury from frostbite.
If tapes were used on your chest, incisions, they will be removed by Dr. Eppley at your first postoperative visit.
Physical exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 1 month after surgery. Routine daily activities are fine to do but make sure to wear your binder for support. The binder should be worn until it feels better off than on.
You may drive when you are reasonably comfortable and are off pain medication. The issue is simply one of safety, both to yourself and others while operating a car.
If increased swelling, redness, or warmth develops in your chest after the first week of surgery, please call Dr. Eppley and have your pharmacy number ready.