• Pain & discomfort: Some tightness, soreness, or burning sensations are normal. Painkillers will be prescribed to keep you comfortable.
• Antibiotics will be prescribed for a period of 5 to 7 days
• Rest: Limit arm movements (especially overhead) and avoid chest strain. Sleep on your back with your head elevated to reduce swelling.

3. The First Week After Surgery

Pain & Swelling

• Bruising and swelling around the chest are expected. These peak at around day 2–3 and gradually improve.
• Pain usually decreases significantly within a few days.

Compression Garment for 4 weeks

• Must be worn 24/7, only removed for showers.
• This is one of the most important parts of recovery — it prevents fluid accumulation, reduces bruising, and ensures even chest contour.

Wound Care

• Dressings should remain clean and dry.
• Stitches are usually dissolvable. MACS clinic will organise your change of dressing within 7 days after your procedure

Activity

• Resume your desk work
• Short walks are encouraged to promote circulation and prevent clots.
• Avoid lifting anything heavier than 2–3 kg.
• You will be advised about your driving by the surgeon after your follow up visit , provided you are no longer on strong painkillers and can perform an emergency stop comfortably.

4. Weeks 2–4: Settling Into Recovery

• Swelling decreases but the chest may feel firm or lumpy — this is due to internal healing and scar tissue formation. It usually softens over time.
• Bruising fades. Skin over the chest may feel tight as it adapts to the new shape.
• Continue wearing the compression vest (day and night) as instructed (typically 4–6 weeks).
• Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
• Some patients experience temporary numbness or tingling, which is part of nerve healing.
• We will advise you about scar therapy which includes gentle massage, application of Silicone Gel and moisurisation once the wound has completely healed .

5. Returning to Exercise & Normal Life (Weeks 4–8)

• By week 4, most swelling has subsided.
• Gentle cardio exercises (walking, stationary cycling, elliptical) are allowed.
• Avoid chest workouts (push-ups, bench press, heavy weights) until cleared by your surgeon, usually around 6 weeks.
• You can start resuming most normal daily activities, including work, social events, and light physical tasks.
• Continue to avoid direct trauma or pressure on the chest (e.g., contact sports) until at least 8 weeks.

6. Long-Term Results & Expectations

• 3 months onwards: Most swelling has settled, and the chest looks flatter and firmer.
• 6 months: Final results become visible. Skin and underlying tissues are fully healed, and the chest contour stabilises.
• Scarring: Small scars (hidden near the armpit or around the areola) will gradually fade and become barely noticeable within 6–12 months.
• Long term results: As long as you maintain a stable weight and avoid factors like steroid abuse, recurrence is rare. Mr Vadodaria came across a rare recurrence in his own practice in a patient who developing recurrence after 7 years following correction of steroid induced Gyanacomastia . (When Gynecomastia Comes Back after 7 years!! – A Rare Recurrence of Steroid induced Gynecomastia – MACS Clinic London)

7. Possible Side Effects & When to Call Your Surgeon

While gynecomastia surgery at MACS Clinic is safe, it’s important to know when to seek help:

• Normal side effects: swelling, bruising, mild pain, firmness, numbness.
• Call Mr. Vadodaria if you notice:
  • Excessive swelling on one side
  • Worsening pain not relieved by medication
  • Bleeding, pus, or foul-smelling discharge
  • Redness, fever, or chills (signs of infection)
  • Chest asymmetry or sudden fluid build-up

Early intervention helps prevent complications and ensures smooth healing.

8. Key Do’s and Don’ts After Gynecomastia Surgery

✅ Do:

• Wear your compression garment exactly as instructed
• Sleep on your back with chest elevated
• Eat a balanced, protein-rich diet to support healing
• Stay hydrated
• Take gentle daily walks to aid circulation
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
• Use your prescribed medications

❌ Don’t:

• Smoke or drink alcohol (slows healing and increases infection risk)
• Skip wearing your compression vest
• Lift heavy weights or resume gym too early
• Apply creams, oils, or massage unless advised
• Expose scars to direct sunlight without SPF

9. Emotional & Lifestyle Impact

For many men, gynecomastia is not just a physical issue but also an emotional one. After surgery, patients often report:

• Improved confidence in wearing fitted shirts or going shirtless
• Increased motivation for fitness
• Better posture and self-esteem
• Enhanced comfort in social and intimate settings

At MACS Clinic, we support you through both physical recovery and emotional well-being.

10. Summary for Patients

Post-operative care following gynecomastia surgery is straightforward but critical.
By carefully following your surgeon’s instructions:

• Wearing your compression garment
• Avoiding heavy exercise too soon
• Keeping wounds clean
• Attending follow-ups
• Taking your prescribed medications