The Dos and Don'ts Before Male Breast Reduction Surgery

Living with enlarged breasts can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness for a lot of men, and if you are experiencing this, you're not alone. In fact, around 65% of adult males are currently managing gynecomastia. Rest assured, there are solutions available to help males regain their confidence and achieve a masculine chest contour. 

What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction, is a procedure designed to reduce excess breast tissue in men with a goal of achieving a flatter, more masculine chest contour. This condition, characterized by enlarged male breasts, can occur due to hormonal imbalances, genetics, obesity, or certain medications. 

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), breast reductions are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed on men. Of the men who undergo this procedure, many claim that they are motivated by the desire to achieve a more aesthetic physique, alleviate physical discomfort, and boost self-confidence. The surgical procedure typically involves removing excess glandular tissue and fat through techniques such as liposuction or excision, depending on the severity of the condition. 

“By addressing the physical manifestation of gynecomastia, this surgery can significantly improve a man's quality of life, allowing him to feel more comfortable in his body and participate in activities without self-consciousness,” comments Mohit Sood, DO, a board-certified plastic surgeon at The Plastic Surgery Center.

How to Prepare for Male Breast Reduction Surgery

• Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon: This step is crucial for ensuring you receive expert care. A board-certified surgeon has undergone rigorous training and adheres to high standards of practice. During your consultation, be sure to discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history in detail.
• Complete all required medical tests and evaluations: Your surgeon may request various tests to ensure you're in good health for surgery. These might include blood tests, chest X-rays, or an EKG. Completing these promptly allows time for any necessary follow-ups.
• Adjust medications as directed by your surgeon: Some medications might need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to avoid complications.
• Stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements: Blood thinners, including aspirin and certain herbal supplements, can increase bleeding risk during surgery. Your surgeon will provide a list of items to avoid and when to stop taking them.
• Maintain a stable weight through a healthy diet and exercise: A stable weight helps ensure optimal and lasting results. Sudden weight changes can affect your surgery outcome.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery: Due to the effects of anesthesia, you won't be able to drive yourself home. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you and stay with you for the first 24 hours post-surgery.
• Prepare your recovery area at home: Set up a comfortable space with essentials within easy reach. This might include extra pillows, entertainment, and any post-operative care items your surgeon recommends.
• Follow fasting instructions before surgery: Typically, you'll need to avoid eating or drinking after midnight before your surgery. This reduces the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.
• Shower and cleanse the surgical area as directed: Your surgeon may provide specific instructions for washing the surgical area to minimize infection risk.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes on the day of surgery: Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off without raising your arms too much. A button-up shirt is often ideal.
• Inform your surgeon of any last-minute health changes: Even minor changes like a cold or skin infection can affect your surgery. Always keep your surgical team informed.
• Fill any prescribed medications in advance: Having your post-operative medications ready at home ensures you can manage pain and follow your care plan immediately after surgery.

Things to Avoid in Preparation of Male Breast Reduction Surgery

According to Dr. Sood, individuals should avoid the following when preparing for a gynecomastia surgery:

• Consuming alcohol: Alcohol consumption before gynecomastia surgery can significantly increase the risk of complications during and after the procedure because it can interfere with anesthesia. Additionally, alcohol acts as a blood thinner, which can increase bleeding during surgery and impair the body's healing process afterward. “We recommend that patients abstain from alcohol for at least one week before surgery to help ensure that the body is in the best possible condition for the procedure and subsequent recovery,” advises Dr. Sood.
• Smoking: Smoking is particularly detrimental to surgical outcomes because nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to tissues and impairing the body's ability to heal. This can lead to slower wound healing, increased risk of infection, and more noticeable scarring after surgery. Moreover, smoking can interfere with anesthesia and increase the risk of respiratory complications during and after surgery. Quitting smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery significantly improves your chances of a smooth recovery and optimal results.
• Tanning or excessive sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure or tanning in the weeks leading up to gynecomastia surgery can increase skin sensitivity and potentially compromise wound healing post-operation. UV rays can alter skin texture and pigmentation, making it more susceptible to irritation and scarring, which could negatively impact the aesthetic outcome of the procedure and prolong the recovery process.
• Forgetting to inform your surgeon of any medications: “Failing to disclose all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your surgeon can have serious consequences,” states Dr. Sood. Some medications can interfere with anesthesia, increase bleeding risk, or interact negatively with drugs used during surgery. Being transparent about your medication use allows your surgeon to provide personalized instructions on which medications to continue, adjust, or discontinue before surgery, ensuring your safety and the best possible outcome.

What to Expect for Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery? 

During the initial phase of gynecomastia recovery, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the chest area. This is typically managed with prescribed pain medication and the use of compression garments, which help reduce swelling and support the new chest contour. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but it's crucial to avoid strenuous exercise, especially upper body workouts, for several weeks, as advised by your surgeon. You'll need to sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated to minimize swelling and protect the surgical site.

As the recovery progresses, you'll notice gradual improvements in comfort and appearance. Follow-up appointments with your surgeon will be scheduled to monitor your healing and remove any non-dissolving stitches. While most of the swelling subsides within the first few weeks, it can take several months for the final results to fully emerge. It's important to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including proper incision care and the use of scar management techniques recommended by your breast revision surgeon. 

Patience is key during this period as your body adjusts and the new contours of your chest become more defined,” says Dr. Sood.

Are You an Ideal Candidate for Male Reduction Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery can be a good option for a wide range of men experiencing enlarged breast tissue, regardless of age or body type, as long as they are in good overall health and have realistic expectations. The surgical procedure can be tailored to address various degrees of breast enlargement, from minor cases to more severe ones, making it a versatile solution for men struggling with the physical and emotional impact of gynecomastia. Ideal candidates include:

• Those experiencing physical discomfort or emotional distress due to enlarged breasts
• Men with persistent enlarged breast tissue unresponsive to weight loss and exercise
• Adult men in good overall health
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery
• Individuals with a stable, healthy weight
• Individuals without serious medical conditions that could impair healing, such as autoimmune disorders or bleeding disorders
• Men with firm, elastic skin that will reshape well to the new contours

"Gynecomastia affects men from all walks of life, and I've seen firsthand how transformative this surgery can be for their confidence and quality of life,” says Dr. Sood. “Whether it's a young adult struggling with self-image or an adult who has long dealt with this condition, our tailored approach allows us to address each unique case effectively to deliver life-changing outcomes.”

Take the first step towards a more confident you by scheduling a consultation for gynecomastia surgery with our expert surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Center. Contact us at 833-615-2618 to schedule an appointment.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Sood.