As with all recoveries from surgical procedures, gynaecomastia recovery can be a bit of a lengthy process, especially if you don’t follow your recovery instructions. By following the most important aftercare tips, you can ensure that your gynaecomastia recovery will be as efficient as possible and that you can achieve the best results.
When you have your consultation, you will be provided with some personalised recovery instructions tailored to the details of your procedure, but we have put together some key tips so that you can know what to expect in the meantime.
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Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for six weeks
After your gynaecomastia surgery, your body will need sufficient rest. As well as taking some time away from work, typically about one to two weeks, it is essential that you avoid vigorous exercise and heavy lifting. Dr Bish Soliman will let you know how long to avoid this for, according to your personal needs, but the general time frame is about six weeks.
While it is good to follow an exercise routine in the longer-term to help maintain your results, you should resist the temptation to start too soon, as your body needs to fully heal from the procedure first. Exercising too soon can lead to potential complications, which can prolong your recovery process.
Stay hydrated and follow a healthy diet
Throughout your gynaecomastia recovery process, you will need to take good care of yourself in general. The key here is, of course, to eat a balanced, nutritious diet and stay hydrated. Although you may have heard this many times before, it really is essential to having an efficient recovery, and putting your body in the best position to heal well.
If you’re not sure how to maintain a healthy diet throughout your recovery, we recommend pre-preparing meals to make it a lot easier. When it comes to what to eat, you should follow what is right for your body. If you like, you can see a dietician ahead of time, so you can get clear on what foods to go for during your recovery, and even long after to help you maintain your results.
Quit smoking and avoid alcohol
Another essential step that you will need to take during your gynaecomastia recovery process is to stop smoking and avoid drinking alcohol. Both smoking and alcohol can have a blood-thinning effect, which can hinder your body’s healing process and lead to further complications.
In fact, even before your procedure, you will need to quit smoking for at least six weeks. If you are worried about quitting smoking, we recommend speaking to your general practitioner before your procedure and getting support.
Wear your compression garment
Your surgeon will provide you with personalised advice on when and how often to wear your compression garment, and it is key that you follow your instructions accurately. Your compression garment is important to help the skin in the operated area to retract, avoiding any loose skin. It will also help swelling to subside faster, which is essential for efficient healing.
Generally, you will need to wear your compression garment 24 hours a day within the earlier weeks of your recovery, and then part time for the duration that your surgeon advises. You will discuss your personalised instructions during your initial consultation so that you can know what to expect before undergoing your procedure.
Manage pain and swelling
It is normal to experience pain and swelling after your procedure, particularly within the earlier days.
You will likely be prescribed some pain medication to help you manage this, and be given instructions on how often to take it. Our key tip is to follow your instructions closely to avoid running into any complications.
Swelling can be managed in a number of ways – firstly, you should wear your compression garment as mentioned above. You can also try to sleep and rest on your back with your head elevated to help swelling to subside faster. Gently applying cold compress to your chest can also help to reduce swelling and manage discomfort.
Follow your personalised instructions closely
While we have mentioned some of the key gynaecomastia recovery tips, all of your individually tailored recovery instructions will be essential to your body’s healing process and to ensuring the best results.
Your instructions will carefully consider all of your personal factors, such as health factors, lifestyle factors and the specific details of your procedure. Therefore, they should be taken seriously and followed closely.
If you do find any instructions confusing or if you have any questions throughout your recovery, don’t put off contacting your surgeon for clarification. No questions are silly questions when it comes to supporting yourself to have a good recovery.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Bish Soliman: Get personalised recovery advice for gynaecomastia surgery in Sydney and North Shore
As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who has undergone extensive training, Dr Bish Soliman is able to provide thorough personalised advice on gynaecomastia procedures, including recovery tips.
If you are interested in undergoing gynaecomastia surgery, you can contact our team to book your consultation in either Sydney or North Shore today.
- Read Dr Soliman’s Blog about How to Minimise Scars after Gynaecomastia
- Read Dr Soliman’s Blog about Preparing for Gynaecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Reduction)
- Read Dr Soliman’s Blog about Alcohol and Recreational Drugs: Their Impact on Cosmetic Surgery
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