After gynecomastia surgery, tips on reshaping your chest are key to a smooth recovery and achieving the best results from your cosmetic surgery. This guide offers practical advice on managing swelling, easing back into physical activity, and performing safe chest exercises. Follow these steps to support healing and enhance your chest contours.
Key Takeaways
Wearing compression garments and managing initial swelling are crucial for a smooth recovery after gynecomastia surgery.
Gradually reintroducing physical activity and focusing on safe exercises, such as walking and gentle stretches, during the first weeks supports healing.
Maintaining a balanced diet and proper hydration plays a vital role in recovery and chest shaping after surgery.
Understanding Gynecomastia Surgery
What is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is a specialized surgical procedure aimed at reducing and reshaping the male chest. This surgery addresses the concerns of men with gynecomastia by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and glandular tissue. The primary goal is to restore a flatter, firmer, and more masculine chest contour. Depending on the severity of the condition and the desired outcome, the procedure can be performed using various techniques, including liposuction, tissue excision, or a combination of both. This tailored approach ensures each patient achieves the best possible results from their male breast reduction surgery.
Gynecomastia often develops due to hormonal imbalances, obesity, or the use of certain medications. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in estrogen or a decrease in testosterone, can lead to the enlargement of male breast tissue. Weight gain can also exacerbate this condition, as excess fat can contribute to the appearance of enlarged breasts. Additionally, some medications, such as those used for treating prostate enlargement, certain antidepressants, and anabolic steroids, may have side effects that include the development of gynecomastia. It’s essential to identify the underlying cause of gynecomastia to tailor the most effective treatment plan. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and discontinuation of the offending medication, might be recommended before considering surgical intervention. Understanding these factors can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options and set realistic expectations for the outcomes of gynecomastia surgery.
Benefits and Risks of Gynecomastia Surgery
Undergoing gynecomastia surgery offers numerous benefits, including significant reduction in breast tissue, improved chest contours, and enhanced self-confidence. Many men find that their new chest appearance allows them to feel more comfortable in their bodies and boosts their self-esteem. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications to consider. These can include scarring, infection, bleeding, and changes in nipple sensation. It is crucial to have a thorough discussion with a qualified plastic surgeon to fully understand these risks and benefits. This conversation will help determine if gynecomastia surgery is the right option for you, ensuring you make an informed decision about your health and appearance.
Initial Recovery Phase: Key Steps for a Smooth Start
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions for a smooth recovery after gynecomastia surgery. One key step is wearing compression garments, which support the healing process, reduce swelling, and maintain the new chest contour. These garments are essential in the initial weeks following surgery.
Additionally, patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending for several weeks to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress, remove any sutures or drains, and address any concerns or questions you may have. By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively support your body’s recovery process and achieve the optimal results from your gynecomastia surgery.
Managing Post-Surgery Chest Appearance
Before and after photo of a patient after gynecomastia surgery.
Understanding and Managing Swelling and Scarring
Swelling and scarring are common concerns after gynecomastia surgery. While initial swelling typically subsides within a few weeks, it may take several months for your chest to fully settle into its new contours. Scarring, on the other hand, can be permanent, but it can be minimized by following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments. Patience is key, as the final results of gynecomastia surgery can take 4-6 months to materialize.
To manage swelling effectively, patients can use cold compresses, elevate their chests, and wear compression garments as directed by their surgeon. These steps help reduce inflammation and support the healing process. To minimize scarring, it is important to avoid direct sun exposure, use sunscreen, and follow a skincare routine recommended by your surgeon. Your doctor may advise massaging certain areas of firmness, or possibly a steroid injection, to reduce persistent firm scar tissue.
By understanding and managing swelling and scarring, you can achieve optimal results from your gynecomastia surgery and enjoy a more masculine and confident appearance.
Gradual Reintroduction to Physical Activity
Reintroducing physical activity gradually is essential during your recovery. This gradual approach is crucial for your progress. However, light walks around the house during the first week is highly recommended as part of the recovery process. This helps prevent blood clots and promotes healthy circulation. Avoid strenuous exercises for the first four to six weeks to prevent elevated discomfort and complications, such as bleeding, seroma, or excessive bleeding.
As recovery progresses, gradually introduce moderate-impact exercises. Once your incisions have healed, stationary cycling becomes excellent options. Listening to your body and following your surgeon’s advice ensures a patient approach and successful recovery.
Most patients are ready to return to work just a few days after undergoing male breast reduction, depending on the nature of their job. It is important to listen to your body and be aware of any unusual pain or acute pain, discomfort or signs of infection, like redness.
Safe Exercises for Early Recovery
In the initial days following surgery, experiencing swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the chest area is a normal part of the recovery process. Safe and gentle exercises during the early recovery phase support the healing process. After gynecomastia surgery, light walking is usually encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Gentle activities like arm lifts or side stretches, performed slowly post-surgery, aid muscle repair and flexibility. Within the first two weeks, incorporate gentle shoulder rolls, arm circles, and neck stretches to maintain flexibility without straining the chest. Remaining vigilant for any unusual pain, elevated discomfort, or redness should be reported to your surgeon.
By weeks four, low-impact cardio options like stationary biking can usually begin. Avoid direct chest exercises during the first six weeks to ensure proper recovery and minimize swelling. After this time, your surgeon may clear you for a return to upper body strength training. As recovery progresses, chest-opening stretches and swimming can effectively strengthen chest muscles once surgical wounds have fully healed.
It is crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid movements that cause discomfort or strain on the chest area. Most patients will observe the full results of their surgery within six months, as the tissues completely heal and any lingering irregularities are smoothed out.
Strength Training Post-Gynecomastia Surgery
A person performing strength training exercises
Approach strength training post-gynecomastia surgery with caution and gradual progression. Most individuals can begin strength training around six weeks after surgery. Start with lighter weights initially, ensuring proper form without pain or excessive fatigue.
Before resuming weightlifting, focus on light upper-body workouts like bicep curls and modified push-ups (e.g., knee push-ups) to engage chest muscles while reducing strain. After receiving medical clearance, gradually integrate chest-specific exercises, starting with lighter weights on the bench press to build strength safely.
Proper form in exercises is essential to prevent injury and ensure effective muscle engagement after surgery. Controlled movements targeting specific muscles facilitate muscle repair and help achieve the desired chest contour.
Effective Chest-Specific Workouts
Once cleared by your surgeon, incorporating chest-specific workouts helps build and sculpt pectoral muscles. Targeting different areas of the chest achieves balanced development. The pectoralis major muscle has two primary regions: the upper (clavicular) and the lower (sternal).
Exercises like dumbbell flat bench press, crossovers, and bench press effectively target various parts of the chest. Proper form during these workouts avoids injury and enhances effectiveness.
Focusing on these chest-specific workouts helps you achieve a well-defined chest, enhances your appearance, and supports your new chest contour.
Nutrition Tips for Optimal Healing and Chest Shaping
Nutrition plays a crucial role in healing after gynecomastia surgery. It significantly contributes to chest shaping during recovery. Proper hydration and a balanced diet are crucial for optimal recovery. A diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and high fiber supports the body’s healing processes and helps build and shape chest muscles.
Essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants facilitate healing and improve skin elasticity, vital for adjusting to post-surgery changes. Avoid foods that increase estrogen or mimic its effects to maintain hormonal balance and prevent the recurrence of excess breast tissue.
Adhering to a balanced diet and following your surgeon’s advice supports healing, enhances chest contours, and helps achieve a well-defined chest.
Hydration and Its Role in Recovery: Importance of Compression Garments
Man wearing a post gynecomastia surgery compression vest.
Staying hydrated is essential for a successful recovery after gynecomastia surgery. Proper hydration manages swelling and supports skin elasticity, which is crucial for adjusting to changes in the chest area. Well-hydrated skin enhances elasticity, promoting better healing and a more vibrant appearance.
Hydration is vital for transporting nutrients to cells, aiding tissue and muscle repair. Proper fluid intake also helps eliminate toxins and waste products that can accumulate during recovery.
Maintaining adequate hydration during the initial recovery phase and beyond ensures better blood circulation, which is necessary for successful healing.
Monitoring Your Progress and Adjusting Your Routine
Consistent follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial for tracking your recovery progress and addressing any issues that may arise. These appointments enable your provider to assess your healing process and make necessary adjustments to your routine. These appointments allow your provider to evaluate your healing process and adjust your routine as needed. Listen to your body and avoid overtraining, as returning to intense exercise too quickly can hinder recovery and lead to complications.
Consult with healthcare providers before resuming higher intensity workouts to ensure safe progression. Be patient and allow ample time to heal before resuming your regular exercise routine. If you experience pain during activities, stop and rest to avoid further complications.
Maintaining good posture is important for psychological recovery and healing after gynecomastia surgery. Following these guidelines helps effectively monitor progress and adjust your routine for a successful recovery.
Long-Term Maintenance for a Well-Defined Chest Contour
Long-term maintenance preserves the results of gynecomastia surgery and helps achieve a well-defined chest after gynecomastia surgery. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are critical for keeping chest muscles toned and maintaining desired chest contours. Maintaining a stable weight helps prevent the recurrence of excess fat and loose skin in the chest area.
Continued follow-ups with your healthcare provider ensure ongoing success and address any post-surgery issues. A balanced diet rich in lean protein, vegetables, and fruits supports overall fitness and enhances chest appearance.
Adhering to these long-term maintenance strategies helps you enjoy a well-defined chest and the confidence that comes with it.
Choosing Dr. Miguel Delgado for Gynecomastia Surgery
Dr. Miguel Delgado in E-Magazine as a gynecomastia ground breaking expert.
Dr. Miguel Delgado is a renowned expert in gynecomastia surgery with over 30 years of experience. Many patients commend his surgical skills and care, with numerous positive reviews highlighting successful outcomes and improved confidence. Dr. Delgado is known for providing personalized consultations to address individual patient concerns, ensuring tailored care.
Dr. Delgado’s expertise in gynecomastia makes him a sought-after choice for those seeking treatment for enlarged male breasts. His commitment to patient satisfaction and recognition as a top plastic surgeon in San Francisco make him a trusted and reliable option for male breast reduction surgery, often called male breast reduction, addressing issues related to excess glandular tissue and plastic surgery.
Choosing Dr. Delgado for your undergoing gynecomastia surgery ensures experienced and capable hands, leading to a successful surgical outcome and enhanced chest appearance.
Free Consultation Offer
Dr. Miguel Delgado offers a free consultation to help you take the first step towards a successful recovery. Call 415 898 4161 or visit his practice’s website to schedule a consultation. The consultation can be conducted virtually or in person, accommodating your preferences.
This free consultation allows you to gain further insights into your recovery and reshaping journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive personalized advice and start your transformation with confidence.
Summary
In summary, reshaping your chest after gynecomastia surgery involves a comprehensive approach that includes proper post-operative care, gradual reintroduction to physical activity, safe exercises, strength training, and effective chest-specific workouts. Nutrition and hydration play crucial roles in supporting the healing process and achieving a well-defined chest.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure a successful recovery and enjoy the benefits of your new chest contour. Take proactive steps, be patient, and trust in the process to achieve the confidence and appearance you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I start exercising after gynecomastia surgery?
You can start light walking within the first week after gynecomastia surgery, but it is recommended to avoid strenuous exercises for four to six weeks to ensure proper healing.
What are the best exercises for early recovery?
Engaging in gentle activities, such as arm lifts, side stretches, shoulder rolls, and light walking, is essential for early recovery. These exercises promote mobility and enhance overall well-being.
When can I start strength training post-surgery?
You can generally start strength training about six weeks after surgery. Focus on lighter weights and maintain proper form. However, always consult your healthcare provider to ensure your specific situation allows this progression.
What nutrients are important for recovery after gynecomastia surgery?
A balanced diet rich in lean protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is essential for recovery after gynecomastia surgery. These nutrients support healing and muscle repair. Prioritize these nutrients to enhance your recovery process.
How can I schedule a free consultation with Dr. Miguel Delgado?
To schedule a free consultation with Dr. Miguel Delgado, please call 415-898-4161 or visit his practice website.
Are you a male with enlarged breast tissue, or what some call “man boobs”? If so, you may be suffering from gynecomastia. This condition can affect males of all ages, can affect one or both breasts, and take a toll on self-confidence, self-esteem, and healthy body image. The most common cause of gynecomastia is an imbalance in hormone levels. Thankfully, there is a permanent solution for gynecomastia: gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction surgery. Read on to learn more about this surgical treatment and the risks that you should be aware of.
About Gynecomastia Surgery
Gynecomastia surgery, also called male breast reduction surgery, is an effective solution for those living with excess breast tissue due to gynecomastia. It is performed under general anesthesia and involves the surgical removal of gland tissue, excess tissue, and excess fat for a flatter, more masculine chest appearance. Overall, gynecomastia surgery is often deemed the best way to correct gynecomastia caused by glandular tissue.
Gynecomastia surgery is a form of plastic surgery, and when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the risks associated are greatly reduced. This is because board-certified surgeons have extensive knowledge of surgical procedures and the experience needed to identify and mitigate any possible issues quickly and effectively.
Risks Associated with Gynecomastia Surgery
There are always some risks involved with any form of surgery, including gynecomastia surgery. These may include:
Hematoma
Hematoma occurs when blood collects under the skin. While very small hematomas can be massaged and may resolve on their own, larger hematomas require drainage to eliminate the excess blood. Dr. Delgado uses drains during this gynecomastia surgery to help prevent the risk of hematomas.
Scarring
Scarring is always a risk when it comes to any form of invasive surgery. Scarring can occur at the planned incision site, or may also occur at an unplanned site. However, visible scars generally heal well following gynecomastia surgery and Dr. Delgado can give you advice on which products to use to further improve scarring.
Infection
Infection following gynecomastia surgery is very rare. This is because antibiotics may be prescribed prior to surgery to decrease the risk even further. It is important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions regarding hygiene to further prevent the risk of infection.
Nipple Sensation Loss
During gynecomastia surgery, some of the nerves that travel through the breast tissue to the nipple may be severed. This can lead to decreased nipple sensation.
Contour Irregularities
The risk of contour irregularities is greater when an individual undergoes surgery with an unskilled surgeon. A skilled board-certified plastic surgeon with ample experience performing gynecomastia surgery will understand the proper techniques to avoid irregularities for a flat, smooth chest.
Risk of Reoccurrence
The risk of gynecomastia recurring after surgery is rare when all glandular tissue is removed. When recurrence does occur, it is often because a hormonal stimulus has not been addressed or anabolic steroids are continued to be used after surgery.
Pain or Discomfort
Following gynecomastia surgery, patients may experience some level of pain or discomfort, which is to be expected. This pain should subside over time during the healing process, and your surgeon may prescribe you pain medication to help.
Deep Vein Thrombosis or Cardiopulmonary Issues
Any surgical procedure can lead to the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to cardiopulmonary problems. This is rare, though it is important that patients are aware of the risk.
Schedule a Gynecomastia Surgery Consultation
For further information regarding gynecomastia surgery in San Francisco Bay Area, pleasecontact Dr. Delgado today. Your first step will be to schedule an initial consultation appointment to discuss your aesthetic concerns and desired result.
Gynecomastia Surgery FAQs
Does gynecomastia surgery involve liposuction?
In some cases, the procedure includes liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue for an improved chest contour.
Does insurance cover gynecomastia surgery?
Because gynecomastia surgery is often an elective procedure, insurance does not cover the cost.
Are all men with large male breasts a candidate for gynecomastia surgery?
To determine if gynecomastia surgery is right for you, you should consult with a physician to first obtain a diagnosis. Commonsigns of gynecomastia include swollen or puffy nipples, nipple discharge, nipple sensitivity, male breast tissue discomfort, and more.
Can gynecomastia surgery cause male breast cancer?
No, gynecomastia surgery has no links to the cause of male breast cancer.
Gynecomastia is a condition that causes excess breast tissue in males as well as othersymptoms, which can have a negative impact on an individual’s self-esteem and mental health. For cases of true gynecomastia, gynecomastia surgery is the most effective treatment option for permanent results. However, before choosing to undergo any form of surgery, it is important to understand what to expect post-op. Read on for an overview of what to expect following gynecomastia surgery and how to manage any discomfort.
What to Expect After Gynecomastia Surgery
Ultimately, the recovery time following surgery depends on the individual patient, the invasiveness of the surgery, and how well the patient adheres to aftercare instructions. However, the typical recovery time for most patients is 4-6 weeks.
For the first few days directly after surgery, you may experience discomfort, tenderness, and tightness in the chest area. Some people may also experience some nausea from the anesthesia used during the procedure. Swelling of the chest area is also to be expected, which can be reduced with the use of a chest compression garment.
By weeks 3-4, compression garments may no longer be required. The majority of swelling and bruising should be resolved, revealing more accurate visual results of the procedure.
By week 6 the recovery process should be near or at completion. Most patients will be able to freely return to most forms of exercise, including movements that put a strain on the chest area. Some mild swelling may still be noticeable in the pectoralis majors, which will naturally resolve over the next couple of weeks.
Pain Management
Mild to moderate pain or discomfort is to be expected following any type of surgery, especially during the first few days. Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication can help with this. Pain severity will depend on the individual and their tolerance level. While some discomfort is to be expected, please do not hesitate to reach out to Dr. Delgado if you are experiencing severe pain or are unsure if you are healing properly.
Tips For a Quick Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery
The healing process following gynecomastia surgery is usually quite easy. While Dr. Delgado will provide you with specific post-surgery instructions, here are some basic tips to help ensure a speedy recovery.
Wear your compression garment as directed. You will be required to wear a compression garment to ensure proper healing of the chest for the best possible outcomes.
Attend all post-op appointments with Dr. Delgado, which are imperative to ensure proper healing.
Cold compresses can be applied to the chest to help reduce swelling and discomfort. However, you should never apply an ice pack directly to the skin! Instead, place an ice pack in a cloth or towel and then place it against your skin.
Stay hydrated by drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day.
Sleep on your back. Propping yourself up with pillows can help this position feel more comfortable after your male breast reduction surgery.
Limit any physical activity until you are cleared by Dr. Delgado. For one month following surgery, you should avoid chest and arm exercises. Full body training can often be resumed about one month following surgery. An inability to follow these guidelines may delay healing.
Gynecomastia Specialist in San Francisco
If you are considering gynecomastia surgery or would like to learn more about this treatment option, pleasecontact Dr. Delgado today. A highly skilled board-certified plastic surgeon,Dr. Delgado has been treating patients with gynecomastia for over 30 years and is committed to providing natural-looking surgical outcomes for his patients.
Gynecomastia FAQs
Are there other procedures that can be combined with gynecomastia surgery?
Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal imbalance, specific medicines, drugs, or anabolic steroid use.
What are some common complications associated with gynecomastia surgery?
As with any form of surgery, there is a risk of complications with gynecomastia surgery. These may include but are not limited to, bruising, bleeding, wound infections, allergic reactions, asymmetries, loose breast skin, and more. However, when performed by a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Delgado, these risks are greatly reduced.
Note: If you ever experience trouble breathing, chest pain, or rapid blood loss following any type of surgical procedure, it is deemed a medical emergency and you should seek medical attention immediately.
What are the most common symptoms of gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is often characterized by the following symptoms:
Enlarged or excess tissue in the breast area
Puffiness beneath the nipple
Nipple discomfort/pain
Nipple discharge
Are all cases of gynecomastia treated the same?
Overall treatment depends on your individual symptoms, your desired outcomes, and your overall health. For example, severe cases of gynecomastia may be treated differently than mild cases.
How do I prepare for gynecomastia surgery?
Prior to your surgery, Dr. Delgado may have you adjust or stop certain medications such as blood thinners, stop smoking, and more. Preparation steps can be discussed during your consultation appointment.
The primary concern regardinggynecomastia surgery is often the longevity of the results. Patients want to know whether or not gynecomastia surgery will provide them with permanent relief from gynecomastia symptoms, such as excess male breast tissue. Fortunately, the results of gynecomastia surgery are permanent, and below, we’ll tell you exactly why.
What is Gynecomastia?
First, let’s begin by touching ongynecomastia. This condition causes excess male breast tissue, resulting in enlarged breasts, or “man boobs”. It is often caused by an imbalance in hormone levels, which often occurs during puberty. However, gynecomastia can affect males of any age.
The Gynecomastia Surgery Procedure
Unlike most body contouring procedures, which target stubborn fat, gynecomastia surgery is actually removing glandular tissue. When fat cells are removed, fat can easily reaccumulate if a patient doesn’t maintain healthy lifestyle habits. But the tissue that is removed will not grow back. The appearance of “man boobs” is caused by excess breast tissue in the chest, not the presence of fat cells. So, when this tissue is removed via gynecomastia surgery, it permanently removes it from the body, along with excess skin, and provides a long-lasting sculpted appearance.
After Your Gynecomastia Surgery
Keep in mind that the results from your gynecomastia surgery will largely be reliant on how you handle your recovery period and your lifestyle following treatment. While gynecomastia can permanently eliminate excess breast tissue, it cannot prevent the accumulation of fat in the chest and surrounding areas. You need to be aware that future weight gain may cause body fat accumulation in the chest where gynecomastia once affected you. Fortunately, as this is just fat-related weight gain, it can be more easily eliminated with diet andgynecomastia exercise when necessary.
Do I Need Gynecomastia Surgery?
The first step in determining if you need gynecomastia surgery is determining whether your symptoms are actually gynecomastia-related. If so, you’ve probably noticed that your chest remains unchanged despite diet and exercise habits. If you merely have stubborn fat in the chest, there may be other treatment options, including non-surgical ones, that will be more suitable than gynecomastia surgery. In cases where the appearance of man boobs is a result of gynecomastia and the buildup of fatty tissue and glandular tissue in the chest, gynecomastia surgery is often the best course of treatment to produce the desired chest contours.
Schedule a Consultation
Are you ready to treat your enlarged male breast tissue once and for all? If you are interested in learning more about male breast reduction surgery, pleasecontact Dr. Delgado today. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, he is highly skilled in performing male breast reduction surgery on patients of all backgrounds to help improve their quality of life.Dr. Delgado has two convenient locations in Novato, CA, and San Francisco, CA.
When undergoing any type of surgical procedure, anesthesia will be used to keep the patient comfortable and allow for a safe procedure. Read on to learn more about the anesthesia options used for male breast surgery.
What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition that causes enlarged male breasts in both boys and men. Male breast enlargement can be caused by a range of factors, including hormonal imbalance, certain medications, illegal drugs, and more.
It is important to understand the difference between truegynecomastia and pseudo-gynecomastia. While true gynecomastia is caused by an increase in glandular tissue and breast tissue, pseudo-gynecomastia is primarily caused by excess fatty tissue to weight gain.
The most effective solution for true gynecomastia isgynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction surgery. This procedure can be performed under a number of different types of anesthesia. Read on to learn more.
General anesthesia causes patients to fall into a sleep-like state with the use of a combination of medicines. This type of anesthesia is performed with an endotracheal tube or a laryngeal mask, also called an LMA. This is a lighter form of general anesthesia. It is considered a safe form of anesthesia for those without serious health conditions.
Local Anesthesia
This type of anesthesia is used to numb a specific area of the body and contains an infiltration of lidocaine, marcaine, epinephrine, and bicarbonate. Unlike general anesthesia, local anesthetics do not cause you to lose consciousness. Because of this, they are generally safer, and are associated with quicker recovery.
IV (Intravenous) Sedation
IV sedation refers to the administering of medication through the blood. Sedation relaxes you and sometimes makes you fall asleep. This type of sedation is often used for shorter, less complex procedures.
Determining Your Anesthesia for Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Dr. Delgado performs the majority of male breast reduction surgery under light general anesthesia. This is because it gives him total control during surgery and keeps the patient comfortable, as well as avoids excess bleeding for the best outcomes.
The best way to determine which anesthesia option is best for you is to discuss your procedure with a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Delgado during a consultation appointment.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are tired of living with gynecomastia and are seeking male breast reduction treatment, please contact Dr. Delgado in San Francisco, CA today! You can give us a call or fill out ouronline contact form to get started.
When men are looking into gynecomastia surgery for a more masculine-looking chest, one of the most common concerns is what their scar might look like following the procedure. In many cases, incisions are necessary to adequately remove glandular tissue, skin, and fat that might be contributing to enlarged breast shape. However, this doesn’t mean that your incisions will lead to unsightly scars, especially if you know how to take care of them in the days, weeks, and months following your procedure.
Causes of Surgical Scars
Not all surgeries necessarily result in scars that others notice when they see the place where it was performed. At the same time, whenever the skin is damaged, it heals in particular ways, often creating fine lines of scar tissue, red lines, or other markers of is history. This is because your skin does one of several things when it heals: it creates extra collagen – supportive proteins that provide internal structure between skin cells – and responds to your body’s wound-healing process, involving the immune system, platelets, and inflammation. These all contribute to the final long-lasting appearance of any wound, from a scraped knee to a surgical scar.
When it comes to surgery, scarring is influenced by three major things:
The surgeon’s skill
The location of the incision
The type of surgery
With precise incision markings, creation, and sealing, surgeries don’t have to result in deep scars. An experienced gynecomastia surgeon like Dr. Miguel Delgado makes precise incisions with minimal invasiveness to prevent excess scarring. There are additional risk factors, however, that can contribute to unsightly wounds after surgery.
Risk Factors for Adverse Scarring
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for gynecomastia surgery with little scarring. Risk factors like age, lifestyle habits, or other unchangeable scenarios can change your reaction to the surgery.
Lifestyle Habits
One of the most commonly instructed preparation steps before surgery of any kind is to stop smoking if you currently do. Smoking inhibits the immune system to the point where the skin doesn’t heal as quickly or effectively as non-smokers. Other behaviors, such as frequent sun exposure without protection or exposure to certain environmental pollutants can also hinder the skin’s ability to heal, resulting in worse scars after gynecomastia surgery.
Age
Older people have less collagen throughout their body, meaning their skin isn’t as tight, resilient, or elastic, which plays into how they heal after surgery. The older you have surgery, the less likely it is that your results will be unnoticeable.
Genetics
Finally, at the end of the day, some people simply heal better following wounds or surgery because of their genetics. The healing process is complicated but involves more than just surface-level factors. Some people literally have thicker, more resilient skin that doesn’t produce visible scars no matter how invasive the procedure or where it’s performed.
Preventing Adverse Scarring
Besides eliminating habits like smoking, there may be a few things you can do to help prevent persistent scar tissue from forming after gynecomastia surgery. Research shows that eating plenty of protein along with a balanced diet provides the nutrients your skin needs to heal effectively following gynecomastia surgery.
Not only for scarring, but also for complete, quick recovery, it’s important to follow all of your doctor’s directions for recovering from your specific male breast reduction surgery. You should clean your wound as instructed, follow care guidelines, and change any bandages as necessary.
Finally, keep pressure and tension off your incision sites as much as physically possible. This means refraining from lifting anything but light objects, avoiding strenuous activities, and performing therapeutic exercises to prevent undue stress on the vulnerable site.
Gynecomastia Scar Treatment
There may be additional ways beyond minimizing risk factors for extensive scarring to help you enjoy the most benefits from your male breast reduction surgery. By consulting with a highly experienced gynecomastia expert like Dr. Miguel Delgado, you can find out what your ideal surgery might look like, especially after the procedure itself. Learn more about gynecomastia and your options for treatment by browsing our leading gynecomastia forum.
