The Truth About Male Breast Reduction Recovery

Considering a male breast reduction but worried about being stuck in bed for weeks? Many men just like you have put off this potentially life-changing procedure out of fear for the recovery process.

But is it really that bad? Will you really have to spend weeks out of work and months away from the gym and the other things in life you love?

No. Read on and find out why.

How long is recovery from gynecomastia surgery?

That depends—on your chest, your health, and your doctor’s experience.

But on average, complete recovery takes anywhere from 4-6 weeks. That means in less than two months you’ll be able to resume your regular exercises.

Despite popular myths concerning gynecomastia surgery male breast reduction is an outpatient procedure. You’ll be able to head home the same day of your surgery, and even head back to work within a week.

How do you manage pain and scarring from gynecomastia surgery?

Want some good news? Pain and scarring from male breast reduction are both very low.

For the first few days after your procedure, your doctor may prescribe a prescription pain reliever. However, many patients don’t require anything stronger than an over-the-counter medication like Tylenol.

Plus, you’ll probably be required to wear a compression garment for several days after your surgery. The compression garment helps enhance the results from your surgery, and decreases pain.

As for scarring? Gyno incisions are usually made around your areola, meaning your scars become virtually invisible—and don’t interfere with your results.

What does a typical recovery from male breast reduction look like?

Since everyone is different, there’s no precise answer. But here’s what the average person might expect:

• Days 1-3: You should get as much bed rest as possible to ensure your chest heals. Pain is common, but generally quite low and manageable with over-the-counter medications.
• Day 3: Most patients feel comfortable enough to return to work, except for those with very physically demanding jobs.
• Days 7-10: Any stitches should be removed by now.
• 1-2 Weeks: You may stop using your compression garment.
• 2 Weeks: You can return to light exercise and physical activity
• 3-4 Weeks: You can resume normal exercise and physical activity, with the exception of heavy chest exercises.
• 5-6 Weeks: You may resume your full range of exercises, including those for your pectorals.

Again, you and your procedure are unique. Dr. Jones will work with you to create a fully customized recovery plan to ensure you get the safest results possible.

When should you seek medical attention after your male breast reduction?

Gyno surgery complications are rare, but it’s important to be aware of them—if you experience any of the following, seek medical help immediately:

• Stitches coming out before they’re due to be removed
• Infection (fever or pus leaking from your surgery site)
• Unusually high pain

These are a worst-case scenario—Dr. Jones will do everything possible to make sure your procedure and recovery are as safe as can be.

Ready for gynecomastia surgery?

When choosing a surgeon for your male breast reduction, you have to choose a doctor you can trust to be your partner throughout the entire process—answering your questions and creating the perfect plan for your body.

The best surgeons are always looking ahead, planning not just for your procedure, but for life after surgery, too.