Large breasts are very often something that many people either desire or appreciate. However, there is a catch: you have to be a woman. If you are a man, then enlarged breasts can be a source of embarrassment, especially when you are trying to go bare-chested at the beach or wear a tighter-fitting shirt. Unfortunately, up to 65 percent of men are dealing with this condition, forcing them to schedule procedures like gynecomastia surgery.
The success rate of effectively reducing the excess breast tissue during gynecomastia surgery is 92.6 percent. That said, for there to be as few complications as possible and for the results to meet expectations, you must prepare. This blog, and Dr. D’Souza’s pre-op instructions, will tell you exactly how to do that.
What Is Gynecomastia and Why Does It Happen?
Gynecomastia, popularly referred to as “man boobs,” is the swelling of breast tissue in men that causes it to pass the average size. The condition is quite common among teenagers and men over 50, but it can happen at any age. Since this concern often occurs as a result of hormonal imbalances, specific changes or excesses in your body can trigger its appearance.
More often than not, gynecomastia goes away on its own, mainly if it occurs during puberty. In mild cases, it can potentially be reduced through medical treatments. However, when gynecomastia is more advanced or persistent, the best way to eliminate the excess tissue is through surgery. And for you to obtain the best results, you need to prepare for it.
How to Prepare for Surgery
In the days leading to your gynecomastia surgery, there are several steps that you can take to make the procedure and recovery smooth. Dr. D’Souza at Iconic Plastic Surgery recommends the following:
- Quit Smoking
Smoking can increase the probability of complications during surgery, as it weakens your body and increases your risk of bleeding. It also slows down wound healing, preventing you from enjoying results at a satisfactory rate. You should quit smoking for at least a few weeks before the procedure, and really stop the habit even after your surgery is completed.
- Adjust Your Medication
Certain types of medication, like anti-inflammatory drugs or blood thinners, can increase the risks of complications during the procedure. Even supplements can have an unwanted effect if they interact with your blood flow. If you are taking medication like aspirin or supplements without a prescription, you should consider avoiding them in the days before the surgery. If you cannot stop the treatment for medical reasons or are unsure if it affects results, please inform Dr. D’Souza of your medication.
- Fast Before the Procedure
Eating before a procedure can reduce the effect of anesthesia while potentially leading to other complications. For this reason, it is recommended not to eat at least 8 hours before the surgery. If your gynecomastia surgery is scheduled for the morning, you should ensure the last meal is before midnight and skip breakfast. Some water is allowed if you have to take medicine, but the intake should be limited as well.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
The stronger your body is, the smoother your recovery after gynecomastia surgery should be. Follow a healthy lifestyle in the weeks before your procedure. Stick to a balanced diet and exercise routine, and ensure that you are adequately hydrated. This should help the muscles and tissue heal efficiently, with fewer complications and scarring risks.
Get Ready for Gynecomastia Surgery!
Gynecomastia can be a complex condition to treat as a man, but fortunately, it is not impossible. To ensure the procedure’s success, it is recommended that you prepare your body within the weeks and days leading up to the procedure. Schedule an appointment with Iconic Plastic Surgery and learn how to prepare for your surgery!
For more information about gynecomastia and how to prepare for the procedure, contact Iconic Plastic Surgery at 760-637-5288. Dr. D’Souza can give you the guidance you need to be ready for your surgery. We also invite you to fill out our online contact form,and we will contact you shortly.
