Your comfort and safety during recovery are our highest priority. This guide has been prepared to help you navigate each stage of your healing journey with clarity and confidence. Please read it carefully and keep it close throughout your recovery — our team is always available should any questions arise.
Preparing for Your Procedure
One Week Before
- Refrain from alcohol for at least 3 days before and after surgery.
- Confirm all required laboratory work and blood tests have been completed and sent to our office. Fax: 855-506-2309.
- Fill any prescribed medications so they are ready at home before your procedure date.
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Vitamin E, and any blood-thinning supplements unless otherwise directed. Tylenol is acceptable.
- Refrain from all nicotine and tobacco products. Nicotine impairs circulation and healing and increases anesthesia risk.
The Evening Before
- Our team will contact you to confirm your arrival time.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight — this includes water, breath mints, and gum. Failure to fast may result in cancellation of your procedure, as a fasting state is required for safe sedation.
- The only exception is prescribed medication; take it with the smallest sip of water the morning of surgery as instructed.
Morning of Surgery
- Shower and shampoo thoroughly before arriving.
- Do not apply makeup, hair products, gels, or nail polish. Acrylic nails may remain.
- Dress in loose, comfortable clothing and flat, easy-to-slip-on footwear.
- Leave all jewelry, body piercings, and valuables at home.
- If you are currently menstruating, please wear a pad rather than a tampon.
- Please make sure you have a responsible adult picking you up when surgery if completed.
Your Recovery at Home
The First 24 Hours
- Your caregiver must remain with you overnight until the morning following the procedure. If you are having several procedures, you may need assistance for 1-2 days.
- Pick up and begin taking all prescribed medications as directed. Take antibiotics in full, even if you feel well before they are finished.
- Never take leftover antibiotics.
- Do not drive for 24 hours after surgery, or at any time while taking pain medication.
- Avoid making major decisions or participating in activities that require clear judgment for the first 24 hours.
- Your first post-operative appointment is typically scheduled 7-10 days following surgery.
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid all exercise and heavy exertion for 3 weeks following surgery. Physical exertion increases swelling and risk of bleeding.
- Short, gentle walks are encouraged from day one. Gradually increase activity as comfort allows.
- Avoid baths, swimming, and hot tubs for 6 weeks. Showering is permitted 24 hours after surgery.
- Do not hold or allow animals to sleep with you for at least 2 weeks following surgery.
Compression Garment
- Wear your compression garment at all times except during showering for the first 6–8 weeks. The garment applies pressure to reduce swelling and helps contour the surgical result.
- Machine wash on a gentle cycle. Do not place in the dryer, as heat causes shrinkage.
Ice & Wound Care
- Ice packs may be applied to the chest for the first 24–48 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply for no more than 10 minutes at a time with at least 20 minutes of rest in between. Never apply ice directly to skin.
- Do not use heat on the surgical site.
- Keep gauze pads at the incision sites clean and dry, changing as needed.
Supporting Your Results
Swelling & Healing Timeline
- Swelling and bruising are completely normal following gynecomastia surgery. Most patients see their greatest improvement within the first 8 weeks, with full final results emerging by 4 to 6 months post-surgery.
- Do not become discouraged if results are not immediately visible. Swelling can temporarily obscure your contour in the early weeks.
Scar Care & Sun Protection
- Avoid direct sun exposure to your arm incisions for at least 1 year following surgery.
- Once incisions are fully healed, apply unscented zinc oxide SPF 30+ consistently to help minimize scar visibility.
- Arm lift scars are long by nature — consistent scar care over the first year makes a significant difference in their final appearance.
Hydration & Nutrition
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day to support healing and reduce swelling.
- Prioritize protein-rich, anti-inflammatory foods and limit sodium intake.
- Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks and do not smoke or use nicotine products during recovery.
Contact Our Office Immediately If You Experience Any of the Following:
- Fever above 101°F
- Pain that is not adequately relieved by prescribed medication
- Increased redness, warmth, or swelling around the incision site
- Bleeding that saturates your dressings
- Foul-smelling or unusual discharge
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or any other symptom that concerns you
When in doubt, please call. We would always rather hear from you.
