Gynecomastia reduction surgery is done to create a flatter male chest and near zero nipple-areolar projection. It can be done with liposuction alone, by breast tissue excision through an areolar incision or both procedures combined. In some larger gynecomastias, skin may need to be removed from around the entire areola as well.
The following postoperative instructions for excisional lip enhancement surgery are as follows:
1. Gynecomnastia reduction surgery has a minimal to moderate amount of postoperative discomfort. Pain medications are prescribed and you should take them as directed on the label, usually 2 tablets every 3 to 4 hour as needed.
2. There will be a circumferential chest binder applied at the end of the procedure. This is to be worn fairly continuously for the first week after surgery. You may take it off the next day to shower and then put it back on thereafter.
3. In some cases of gynecomastia reduction surgery, drains will be used for a few days after surgery. These are small tubes that come out of the side of the chest and are connected to a small bulb which collects any fluids. Empty the bulb as directed and there is NO need to measure the amount of fluid that comes out. You only need to apply antibiotic ointment where the drain comes out of the skin. No dressings are needed, You may shower and get the drain wet.
4. The areolar incisions at the nipples will be covered with glued-on tapes that you do not need to remove. They will be removed in the office at your first postoperative visit. You may get them wet when showering.
5. All sutures at the areola are under the skin and covered by the tapes. They will not need to be removed. Incisions at the side of the chest for liposuction will have one small stitch that will need to be removed at your first postoperative visit.
6. Your chest will be sore for several weeks after surgery. This is not the time to be working out or returning to any chest exercises or lifting weights. That should not be done for three to four weeks after surgery.
6. You may eat and drink whatever you like right after surgery. Focus on liquids and soft foods for the first few days after surgery.
7. After sutures are removed and the incision lines healed (several weeks), massaging the lips and stretching them gently will help make them feel softer sooner and regain their normal suppleness again.
8. You may return to work and any non-strenuous physical activity as soon as you would like based on your comfort level.
9. You may drive when you feel comfortable and can react normally and are off pain medication.
10. If any chest or incisional redness, tenderness, or drainage develops after the first week of surgery, call Dr. Eppley and have your pharmacy number ready.