Gynecomastia may not be a well-known term just yet, but the condition it describes sure is. Many people know it as “man boobs.” According to statistics, as much as half of the male population may struggle with persistent breast enlargement. Gynecomastia is not uncommon among teens due to the correlation between breast tissue and hormone fluctuations. In many cases of teen gynecomastia, the male chest reduces to more masculine form as testosterone and estrogen come into balance. However, this is not a given.
For the adult male whose breast enlargement persists, quality of life can suffer. It doesn’t have to. Experienced plastic surgeons have developed specific techniques for reducing male breasts. The mechanical removal of fatty tissue and, if needed, glandular tissue, can permanently resolve the issue of gynecomastia. Free of enlarged breasts, a man is able to live more fully and confidently and actually see the results of his diet and exercise habits.
One of the questions many men have as they approach gynecomastia surgery is when they will be able to hit the gym again. As with all surgical procedures, male breast reduction will require a bit of downtime to recover. The word “downtime” shouldn’t feel stressful; it simply means that some rest and relaxation is needed for some time. How much time depends on a few factors. These include:
- The extensiveness of the breast reduction procedure (fat reduction or surgical excision)
- The body’s natural healing processes
- Strict adherence to post-surgical guidelines
Guidelines for Physical Activity after Male Breast Reduction
Does “rest and relaxation” mean bed-ridden? Absolutely not. Patients who undergo surgery are advised to get up and walk as soon as they are stable on their feet. Walking even short distances a few times a day is necessary to facilitate adequate circulation through the lower extremities. In short, walking reduces the risk of post-surgical blood clots.
For the first week after male breast reduction, physical activity should be limited to light walking. This shouldn’t be alarming. Many men are able to go back to work at the end of this first week. That is, if their job is not strenuous. The return to normal activities, especially those that use the chest muscles, needs to occur slowly and with input from the surgical team. Too much too soon can increase the risk of complications and poor healing.
Patients who undergo gynecomastia surgery can expect to be healed enough to resume a light exercise routine approximately one month after surgery. At first, the scope of workouts should be limited to cardio and non-chest exercises (this means shoulders and arms, too). After about six weeks, the chest muscles are typically healed enough for light chest and arm exercises. However, it is crucial that strength exercises continue lightly. Muscles are not as strong as they were before surgery and are therefore prone to injury.
Take the First Step
The first step in getting the masculine chest you want is to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon. To schedule our consultation in our Houston or Sugar Land office, call 713.271.9000.